Ultra Trail Calendar — Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, July 2026
The world epicentre of high-mountain trail: Chamonix, at the foot of Mont Blanc, is the birthplace of the UTMB; Annecy, by its turquoise lake, hosts the Maxi-Race. Brutal elevation gain, glaciers, and some of the most photographed alpine landscapes in Europe.
1 race scheduled
Climate in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: The safe high-mountain window runs from June to September, when passes and ridges are free of snow. July and August concentrate the bulk of the calendar, with UTMB in late August and Maxi-Race and Marathon du Mont-Blanc in June-July. Outside that window, snow can close the highest sections even in midsummer during years with late thaw.
Race summary
1
Races
20 – 176 km
Distance range
1,200 – 11,590 D+
Elevation range
Jul
Race months
Difficulty
Tips for running in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in july
Sun protection is absolutely critical: reapply cream every 90 minutes and wear UPF-rated clothing.
Plan hydration with electrolytes: in July you can lose over 1 litre of sweat per hour.
Book accommodation early: July is peak season and places near races sell out fast.
Race map
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Scheduled races
Essential gear + sun protection
Get ready to run in the heat: sun protection and key gear
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
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