About This Race
The 109K course at Trail Alsace by UTMB represents a substantial undertaking through the Vosges Mountains and Alsatian wine country, offering experienced ultra runners a complete mountain ultra experience without the multi-day recovery typically required by longer UTMB World Series events. Starting from the medieval town of Obernai, this route showcases the region's distinctive character through forested mountain trails, vineyard passages, and historic villages that dot the landscape between the Rhine Valley and the Vosges ridgelines. While shorter than the 156K flagship, this distance demands complete ultra preparation including night running capability, navigation skills, and pacing discipline across varied terrain. The May timing provides generally favorable conditions for mountain running, though weather in the Vosges can shift rapidly between mild valley temperatures and cooler exposed ridges. Runners finishing this distance gain valuable UTMB Index points and experience the full scope of what makes Alsace's trail network distinctive within the European ultra calendar.
The route traverses the limestone and sandstone trails of the Northern Vosges, moving between dense forest sections and open vineyard country where runners pass beneath medieval castle ruins that mark territorial boundaries dating back centuries. Terrain varies from well-maintained forest roads to technical rocky sections requiring careful foot placement, particularly when conditions are wet. The course connects multiple villages where local support and cultural immersion add dimension to the physical challenge, with aid stations typically featuring regional specialties alongside standard ultra nutrition.
Location
Practical Info
May conditions generally mild with temperatures ranging from 8-18°C, though mountain weather can bring rain, wind, and cooler temperatures on exposed sections.
Obernai offers multiple lodging options from traditional hotels to vacation rentals, with good train connections to Strasbourg making the region accessible for international runners.
Best For
Notable Features
Trail Alsace distinguishes itself through the cultural depth of the route, passing multiple castle ruins and traversing vineyards where Grand Cru appellations meet mountain wilderness. The course connects villages where half-timbered architecture and local traditions remain intact, providing contextual richness beyond the physical challenge. As part of the UTMB World Series, the event offers qualifying points and brings the production standards of the UTMB organization to a region with its own centuries-old mountain traditions.