Monterosa Walserwaeg by UTMB 82km: From Roman Bridge to Walser Village, 6,300m D+ Through the Monte Rosa Massif

The Monte Rosa Trail (MRT) covers 82km officially (80.18km by GPX analysis) with 6,300m D+ and 5,998m D-, equating to approximately 78.6m of elevation gain per kilometre. This ranks 19th of 390 European ultras for vertical density, placing the course in the top 5% most demanding European ultra routes. The official race description refers to an '80-kilometre route' while the race statistics list 82 KM; DTR records are based on GPX analysis at 6,300m D+. Maximum race time is 25 hours from a 06:00 start.

The Monte Rosa Trail 82km awards 3 Running Stones upon finisher verification, qualifying for the 100K category in the UTMB World Series. Finishers also receive direct-entry Finals Access in the 100K category, allowing them to enter UTMB World Series Finals without a lottery. Running Stones count towards the UTMB Mont-Blanc race ballot. Verify current Stone awards and Finals Access status at utmb.world before entering.

The course is point-to-point, starting in Pont-Saint-Martin (Friday 17 July 2026, 06:00) and finishing in Gressoney-Saint-Jean. From Pont-Saint-Martin's ancient Roman bridge, the route heads into the Lys Valley through small Walser villages, then crosses to Val d'Ayas, passing the historic Castle of Graines. The Rothorn Pass crossing offers views of the Matterhorn range before descending through Gressoney-La-Trinité to the finish in Gressoney-Saint-Jean. With D+/km of 78.6m ranking 19th of 390 European ultras, average uphill gradient ranking 46th, and average downhill gradient ranking 353rd (steeper end of database), this is a technically demanding course with sustained steep climbing and descending throughout.

Base entry is €180, with an 8% administration fee bringing the approximate total to €194. Registration for the 2026 edition is open and not sold out as of DTR's most recent records. At approximately €2.20 per kilometre, entry cost sits in the mid-range for UTMB World Series events. The race was first held in 2022. Verify current availability and pricing at mrww.utmb.world, as prices and availability may change.

The race starts in Pont-Saint-Martin, located at the entrance to the Lys Valley in the Lower Aosta Valley, approximately 60 minutes from Turin Caselle Airport (TRN). Milan Malpensa (MXP) is approximately 90 minutes; Geneva (GVA) approximately 2 hours. A car is recommended as public transport to Pont-Saint-Martin and the Lys Valley is limited. The race is point-to-point: the finish is Gressoney-Saint-Jean, which requires separate logistics. The race organisation provides transport plans; check mrww.utmb.world/runners/shuttles for official shuttle information. Accommodation is available in Gressoney, Brusson, and throughout the Aosta Valley; book early for peak July season.