woman walking on green grass field

HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB 18K

18K·Vielha, Spain
ultra100 mile100k50kmountainhigh altitudetechnicaltrailqualifier10k

Photo by Massimo Sartirana on Unsplash

Distance18K
Date1 Jul 2026
StatusOpen

About This Race

The 18K offers runners an extended introduction to Pyrenean mountain terrain with approximately 800-1000 meters of elevation gain, bridging the gap between the accessible 10K and the more demanding longer distances. This distance allows runners to experience the technical rocky sections and sustained climbs that define Val d'Aran's challenging topography while remaining manageable for those building toward longer mountain races. The course provides enough time on the trails to truly appreciate the dramatic alpine scenery and test mountain running skills without the endurance demands of ultra-distance events.

Notable Features

As the European Major of the UTMB World Series, this event offers direct qualification to UTMB Mont-Blanc for top finishers and doubles Running Stones for all participants. The multi-day festival format across seven different races provides options for runners of all abilities while maintaining the prestige and technical challenge expected from a UTMB World Series event in the dramatic Pyrenean landscape.