About This Event
Set against the legendary Eiger North Face in Grindelwald, Switzerland, this UTMB World Series event brings runners into the heart of alpine trail running. The Eiger has captivated climbers and adventurers for decades, with its North Face representing one of the great challenges in mountaineering - conquered for the first time in 1938 after a four-day battle, though today's elite climbers tackle it solo in under two and a half hours. This multi-distance event offers runners the chance to experience the dramatic terrain that has defined Swiss alpine culture. From the challenging 250-kilometer UNESCO Trail Race to shorter distances that showcase the region's panoramic views, each course provides a different perspective on this iconic landscape. The event operates within the UTMB Running Stones qualification system, with longer distances requiring previous ultra experience. The 2026 edition takes place in mid-July, positioning runners in prime alpine conditions when mountain trails are most accessible. Registration sells out quickly, reflecting both the event's UTMB World Series status and the unique appeal of running in the shadow of one of the Alps' most famous peaks.
Choose Your Distance
15K
This 15K surprise course offers 800 meters of elevation gain, providing participants with an element of discovery in their Alpine adventure. The shorter distance allows runners to focus on enjoying the spectacular mountain environment and Swiss trail running culture.
16K
The route begins in Grindelwald and climbs into the network of trails that connect the valley's mountain stations and alpine huts. Expect a combination of wide mountain paths used by hikers and narrower singletrack sections that require technical footwork. The course design emphasizes the vertical nature of this landscape, with climbs that gain altitude steadily rather than gradually, and descents that demand controlled technique on uneven surfaces.
35K
The course departs Grindelwald and climbs through mixed forest before emerging into alpine pasture with views across the Lauterbrunnen valley. Runners traverse high trails beneath the Eiger's north wall, passing through terrain where rock, grass, and snow meet. Technical sections alternate with runnable alpine track, demanding both climbing fitness and descent control. The route returns to Grindelwald through different valleys than the ascent, completing a loop that showcases the region's varied alpine environments.
51K
The course explores the terrain surrounding Grindelwald, moving through a landscape shaped by glacial valleys and limestone ridges. Runners encounter the mixed surfaces typical of Swiss mountain trails: maintained hiking paths, rocky sections requiring careful foot placement, and alpine pasture crossings. The route profile reflects the vertical nature of the Bernese Oberland, though specific elevation details are not currently published. Grindelwald sits at approximately 1,034 meters elevation, and the surrounding trail network extends both higher into the peaks and lower into adjacent valleys. The mid-July timing means runners face full summer conditions at altitude, with potential afternoon weather changes common in the Alps.
101K
The route explores the trail network surrounding Grindelwald, moving through multiple valleys and alpine zones in the Jungfrau region. Runners encounter the characteristic features of Swiss mountain trails: well-maintained but steep switchbacks, occasional technical sections across scree or root systems, and passages through high alpine meadows. The course typically includes sections with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, though weather conditions in the mountains can limit visibility. Aid stations follow UTMB standards, positioned at strategic intervals with both nutrition and staffing designed for mountain ultra distances. The mixed terrain requires versatile mountain running skills—comfortable descending on technical surfaces, efficient climbing on sustained grades, and the ability to adjust pacing across varied footing throughout the distance.
250K
The 250K course loops through the Bernese Oberland, connecting Grindelwald with surrounding valleys and alpine passes in a route that showcases the full character of Swiss mountain running. Runners move through diverse ecosystems, from flower-filled meadows and larch forests to exposed ridgelines and glacier-carved terrain. The route includes multiple significant climbs and descents, with technical sections demanding careful foot placement and sustained concentration. Aid stations are spaced according to UTMB standards, but runners should expect longer stretches of self-sufficiency than in shorter formats. Navigation skills are essential, particularly if weather deteriorates or if running through the night. The course passes through traditional Swiss villages where local support adds energy to difficult moments, though much of the route unfolds in wild, remote terrain where runners must rely entirely on their own preparation and resolve.