The Cross du Mont-Blanc was born on July 1, 1979, on the initiative of the Club Alpin Français (CAF) de Chamonix, chaired at the time by Georges Costaz and Christian Roussel, both keen runners. For the first edition, 450 participants took to the valley’s trails, finishing in Planpraz.
Over the next 24 years, the Cross du Mont-Blanc grew to attract almost 1,000 participants every year. In 2003, the race took a turn and became the Mont-Blanc Marathon: the legendary 23km was joined by the 42km it is still known for today. This was followed by the creation of the 10km, more accessible to the general public. From then on, registrations grew exponentially, to the point where the number of runners able to register for the Cross and Marathon had to be limited from 2010 onwards. The Mont Blanc Marathon then continued to develop, with the creation of the Kilomètre Vertical in 2011, the 80km in 2013 (which later became the 90km), and finally the Duo Etoilé and Young Race Marathon in 2015.
Today, the Mont-Blanc Marathon brings together over 10,000 runners every year, taking part in 8 unique races in the Mont-Blanc massif: the 90km, 42km, 23km, 10km, Kilomètre Vertical, Duo étoilé, Young Race Marathon and Mini-Cross.
Mont-Blanc 90 km
The Mont-Blanc 90 km race has become legendary in the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley. With a distance of 92 km and 6330m of elevation gain, the 90km du Mont-Blanc is recognized as one of the most technical trails over the French landscape. Although the course runs exclusively on hiking trails, they can be sometimes narrow and airy.
Some sections of the route are exclusively snow-covered, and runners frequently find themselves at altitudes between 2,000m and 2,500m, requiring a certain degree of acclimatization. The weather can change rapidly in the mountains (wind, precipitation, heat/cold), and running at night can increase the feeling of difficulty of a passage.
To take part in this race, it is therefore recommended to have good mountain running experience, be comfortable on all types of terrain, and be self-sufficient for several hours.
Mont-Blanc 42 km
With its 2540m elevation gain, the 42km du Mont-Blanc is the highlight of the weekend.
It brings together the best trailers in the discipline, engaged in a breathless battle in front of a dream setting! Firstly on the fast and rolling trails of the race beginning, then on the steep and technical slopes of the aiguillette des Posettes, the main difficulty of the course, to finish facing the incredible panorama of the Mont Blanc range.
To take part in this race, it is recommended to have good mountain running experience, to be comfortable on all types of terrain and to be self-sufficient for several hours.
Mont-Blanc 23 km
This friendly race, which route has remained almost unchanged since its creation, will take you on the track of the pioneers of the discipline. All in the middle of a panorama of dazzling beauty.
Duo Etoilé (20 km)
Come to discover the special atmosphere of a night race whose team spirit and sharing will be the watchwords. You will leave the race with stars in your eyes…
Mont-Blanc 10 km
The 10km du Mont-Blanc is a race open to everyone, offering an introduction to trail running in a spectacular environment. Although this trail has little elevation gain (325m D+/-), it will surprise you with its short but intense climbs, and its descents on technical singles. Come and discover this race, which will delight you with its festive and friendly atmosphere!
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Still in awe…
Great location and superb race. Lots of single trails over rocks and through forrest. Some easy passages that give you enough time to check out the scenery. Mont Blanc as … MORE
Great location and superb race. Lots of single trails over rocks and through forrest. Some easy passages that give you enough time to check out the scenery. Mont Blanc as a backdrop had me smiling constantly. Only downside it is a big event so the trails and aid stations are crowded esp. at the beginning. All in all a great event.