Trail Alsace Grand Est by UTMB 156 km trail running route — France · Grand Est

France · Grand Est

Trail Alsace Grand Est by UTMB

Distance

156 km

Date

May 15, 2026

Entry fee

280 EUR

€ / km

€1.79

UTMB badge in Alsace: fast-technical forest ridges, castle backdrops, and a polished race-week scene.

Elevation and Terrain

Total Meters

5100m

D+/KM

32.69m/km

For context, the Tor des Géants 330 loop has 73 D+/km.

Logistics

Nearest airport

Strasbourg (SXB) / Basel (BSL)

Notes

Start: ~45–90 min / Public transport: Good (train + short transfer)

Runner VoiceReal conversations with race participants

Sam Khalid · Ran in 2025 · ITRA 559

Summary

One of my favorite races. Easy to lock into rhythm and pacing. Always runners around, very little isolation.  Also easy to go out too fast if not disciplined. Continued my racing season with a big summer race goal, hit a sub 24 hours at 100 miles, and 96KM checkpoint in 12 hours.

Technicality: In terms of technicality, Alsace is a very runnable trails for a 100 miler. Smooth and clean paths with minimal technical sections except the final descent. Climbs are mostly gentle and runnable. Constant running leads to cumulative fatigue in feet, and legs.
Shoes / poles / pack: Leki Super Elite poles / Tectons for the Prodigio Pro. Careful with carbon shoes - Carbon shoes over 100 miles can cause issues if not tested properly. Gels stopped working around 50K, need a backup strategy. Soup and biscuits worked well later in the race. Bring spare shorts to avoid chafing problems.
Logistics: There is easy access via Strasbourg to accommodation. Good accommodation options in Obernai, too. The shuttle system works well for runners and supporters; shuttle buses to the start are well organized. During the race. Course marking is excellent, no navigation needed.
What surprised them: Last climb at 135Km was more technical than expected, so I held back on it to give it my all on the descent. Final descent is long, technical, and fast.
One Tip for Runners: Race pack pickup only on race day in Obernai, which is inconvenient. Best to stay near the finish for easier logistics.
Last checked: February 16, 2026Official Website →