Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB

Switzerland’s Alpine Jewel in the Global Trail Running Crown.

races / discover

Dare the mountain experience in the heart of the Swiss Alps

Since its inception in 2009, the Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB has achieved legendary status in the world of trail running. Located in the heart of the canton of Valais, this race is more than just a competition; it’s a pilgrimage for mountain lovers, offering a challenging yet deeply rewarding journey through some of Europe’s most stunning alpine landscapes. As Switzerland’s first 100-mile ultra trail, the event offers an enticing combination of high-alpine technicality, a rich cultural heritage and the global spirit of trail running, all under the iconic banner of the UTMB World Series.

Running heritage in the Swiss Alps

What began over a decade ago as an ambitious mountain ultra-trail race has grown into one of the most prestigious trail running events in Europe. Ahead of its time in 2009, the Trail Verbier St Bernard dared to introduce the first 100-mile (160 km) race format to Switzerland — an audacious move that attracted hardcore mountain runners and has since evolved into a multifaceted trail running festival.

Since 2022, the event has been part of the UTMB World Series, offering runners from around the world the opportunity to compete in the ultimate trail running finale at the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc. The event now comprises four distinct races, ranging from high-altitude ultra-endurance challenges to more accessible yet equally scenic alpine adventures, all culminating in the picturesque village of Verbier.

Welcome to Trail Paradise: The Verbier Region

Verbier is the soul of the event. It’s not just a venue; it’s the beating heart of the experience. Once a humble alpine pasture, this village has evolved into a world-class destination for outdoor sports, while retaining the rustic charm of its origins. Nestled high in the Swiss Alps, Verbier boasts awe-inspiring views of Mont Blanc and the Grand Combin massif. Offering runners a postcard-worthy journey through panoramic wilderness, it provides more than just a race.

With its cosy chalets, stylish hotels, welcoming restaurants and mountain-friendly infrastructure, Verbier is the perfect host. Its easy access via public transport and vibrant sports culture make it a natural magnet for endurance athletes and mountain lovers alike.

The Races

X-Alpine (100 miles/160 km/D+10,000 m):
“The Ultra of Ultras”.
The X-Alpine is the flagship event of the Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB. Starting at 10 p.m. in Verbier, it plunges runners immediately into the dark majesty of the alpine ridge, lit only by headlamps and starlight. The course winds through deep valleys and remote passes, with runners passing legendary landmarks such as:

Champex-Lac: A serene alpine lake and village.
Orny Hut: A wild, glaciated area offering the first taste of technical alpine terrain.
La Fouly: A tranquil valley base before heading toward…
Fenêtre Lakes & Pass: A jewel-toned high-altitude lake area.
Grand St-Bernard Pass: Straddling the Italian border, famed for its monastery and rescue dogs.
Panossière Glacier & Suspension Bridge: An iconic moment beneath the towering Grand Combin (4314m).
The 1200m Wall: A brutal final ascent before descending triumphantly into Verbier.

This race is not just about endurance; it’s about mountain survival, spiritual connection and relentlessly pursuing the finish line.

X-Traversée (~73 km / D+4,900m)
“The Alpine Essence”
Starting in La Fouly, the X-Traversée captures the soul of the X-Alpine’s second half. Runners tackle five alpine passes in succession:

Fenêtre Lakes and Pass
A brief foray into Italy
The historic Grand St-Bernard Hospice
Col des Avouillons to the glacial realm of Panossière
The arduous 1200m wall climb before the descent into Verbier

The X-Traversée is a perfect option for experienced trail runners seeking a serious mountain challenge with slightly less mileage but no less intensity.

Verbier Marathon (~43 km / D+3,600m)
“High Views, Technical Trails”
For runners who thrive in high-alpine conditions but seek a shorter route, the Verbier Marathon is a technical gem. It starts above Bruson, reached via a cable car, and follows an exposed ridge line with heart-stopping vistas of Mont Blanc and the Grand Combin.

Highlights include:
The summit of Mt Rogneux (3084m), the course’s highest point
Alpine lakes dotting the descent
The Panossière suspension bridge
A gentler final climb into Verbier, avoiding the infamous wall

While shorter in distance, this race demands strong mountain skills and rewards participants with some of the most stunning panoramas on the continent.

Verbier X-Plore (~26 km / D+1,800m)
“Accessible Alpine Adventure”
The most accessible of the four races, Verbier X-Plore is ideal for newer trail runners or those looking for a scenic but less intense experience. The race begins in the heart of Verbier and quickly ascends to Pierre Avoi, offering a postcard view over the surrounding peaks.

Runners follow:
Hillside paths with stunning views of Mont Blanc
A visit to Cabane Mont-Fort
A tranquil section along the Bisse du Levron, an ancient irrigation channel
A shared final section with the other races into Verbier

Though the distance is shorter, the route is still wild, scenic, and deeply rewarding.

A Stage in the Global UTMB World Series

When Trail Verbier St Bernard joined the UTMB World Series in 2022, it stepped onto the global stage, offering runners a direct path to qualify for the UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix. This affiliation connects Verbier with over 50 other UTMB World Series events spanning five continents, from the rugged trails of New Zealand to the high-altitude races of Peru.
For elite athletes, it’s an opportunity to earn points and gain entry to the sport’s most competitive races. For amateurs, it’s an opportunity to push their limits, create lifelong memories and become part of a global trail running community.

Beyond the Race: Culture, Nature & Community

Trail Verbier St Bernard is more than just a competitive event; it is also a cultural and environmental experience. From historic mountain passes to ancient alpine trails, the region’s landscape tells the story of human resilience in high-altitude environments. The trail community in Verbier is deeply rooted, passionate and proud. Many of the volunteers are locals who offer unmatched hospitality and logistical support.

The environment is fiercely protected. Organisers emphasise sustainability, respect for nature and low-impact trail ethics. The event collaborates with local authorities and environmental organisations to preserve the trails for future generations.

Whether you’re an experienced ultrarunner, an adventurer interested in trails, or a passionate mountain lover, Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB offers a race to suit you. This event is defined not just by elevation gain or finishing times, but also by the raw beauty of the Alps, the thrill of pushing beyond your limits and the bond shared by those who conquer the mountain together.

This is more than a race. It’s a rite of passage. This is the Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB, where the mountains challenge and the spirit prevails.

Courses:
X-Alpine – Distance: 160 km Elevation: +/- 10 000 m
X-Traversée – Distance: ~73 km Elevation: +/- 4900 m
Verbier Marathon – Distance: ~43 km Elevation: +/- 3600 m
Verbier X-Plore – Distance: ~26 km Elevation: +/- 1800 m

Event website: verbier.utmb.world
Photography: Organizer gallery