About This Race
The Monte Rosa Walserwaeg 120K traverses the ancient pathways of the Walser people, a Germanic community that settled these high valleys centuries ago. Part of the UTMB World Series, this course links traditional mountain villages across the Italian and Swiss Alps, passing through the Aosta Valley and crossing into Switzerland's Valais region. The route demands technical proficiency and careful pacing across sustained alpine terrain. Runners follow historic trails that connect Walser settlements, experiencing the cultural continuity of communities that have inhabited these mountains for over 700 years. The course passes through multiple alpine ecosystems, from chestnut forests in the lower valleys to high meadows and rocky passes near the treeline. Extended time cutoffs acknowledge the technical nature of the terrain and the sustained effort required to complete the circuit. This is a race for experienced ultra runners comfortable with multi-day mountain efforts and self-sufficient navigation through remote alpine environments. The complete circuit provides the most immersive encounter with the Walser territory, where mountain architecture and centuries-old trails remain largely unchanged.
The 120K course follows the traditional Walserwaeg (Walser Way) through the Aosta Valley, connecting villages including Gressoney-La-Trinité, Gressoney-Saint-Jean, and crossing into the Swiss Valais. Runners navigate historic mule tracks, exposed ridge lines, and technical mountain passages that have served as trade and migration routes for centuries. The route requires confidence in mixed alpine terrain, including rocky sections, forested trails, and possible snow fields depending on seasonal conditions.
Aid stations are positioned at strategic intervals, typically at village locations along the route. Runners should prepare for extended periods between support, particularly on high alpine sections where self-sufficiency with navigation, nutrition, and weather protection becomes critical.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 4,865m over 120km, with the steepest section between km 189–km 190.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Practical Info
July conditions in the Alps typically bring warm valley temperatures with cooler, more variable conditions at altitude. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the high country, requiring runners to carry weather protection. Snow fields may persist on north-facing slopes and high passes into mid-summer.
Gressoney-La-Trinité serves as the primary race hub, with lodging options ranging from mountain hotels to rifugios. Early booking is essential for UTMB World Series events. Nearby villages including Gressoney-Saint-Jean offer additional accommodation, with shuttle services typically provided during race week.
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Notable Features
The course follows authentic Walser migration routes that have connected high alpine communities for over seven centuries, offering cultural immersion rare in ultra running. Runners experience the architectural and linguistic distinctiveness of Walser villages, where Germanic dialects persist and traditional wooden chalets line the trails. The route's inclusion in the UTMB World Series brings international attention to this historically significant alpine corridor.