Qualify for the UTMB with this remarkable race in the heart of the Southern French Alps. Two distances to suit all levels: UTMB qualifier race of 57km with +3500m with 3 ITRA points, and race of 30km with +1700m plus kids and charity races.
Location: Champsaur Valley, Southern French Alps
A spectacular trail race event for UTMB ("Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc") contenders and budding trail runners in stunning scenery.
Situated on the edge of the Ecrins National Park, the Champsaur valley is a hidden marvel of the Alps; little known, wild and unspoilt, with rolling foothills evolving into dramatic mountain summits. It is perfect mountain running country for nature and mountain lovers.
There are two trail routes, the UltraChampsaur and Les Balcons de Rouanne which both take place on the Sunday.
The beautiful routes and stunning lanscapes make both the 30km itinerary and the 57km race must do bucket list runs.
And for serious runners interested in building up to the famous UTMB there is the possibility to gain three qualifying ITRA points with the 57km race whilst experiencing the dramatic scenery of the Southern French Alps.
On the Saturday there are also taster trails, charity runs and kids races for families and friends accompanying runners.
A tough but beautiful trail on mountain footpaths starting in the remote Alpine hamlet of Prapic taking mountain passes and one of the best views in the Alps over the Lac de Serre-Ponçon. All finishers of the UltraChampsaur race receive 3 qualifying points for the Trail du Mont-Blanc.
Have a look at the full UltraChampsaur trail route here.
The UltraChampsaur race can also be done in relay teams of either 2 or 4 people.
Have a look at the 2 person relay sections here.
Have a look at the 4 person relay sections here.
This is a spectacular route encompassing the second half of the UltraChampsaur up to the ridge to the Piolit, a summit with a breathtaking view of the Lac de Serre-Ponçon.
Have a look at the full Balcons de Rouanne trail route here
All the trails are way marked (no navigation requirements) and there are refreshment stops providing soft drinks and snacks such as dried fruit, biscuits and bananas. Some people do carry water and energy bars so as not to be dependent on the refreshment stops but this is entirely up to you!
Safety and security are well managed with first aid posts strategically positioned around the courses manned by the red cross and other volunteers and a red cross tent at the arrival. So all you have to do is turn up and run!
There are no kit restrictions so you can wear whatever you like and you don't need to carry any of your own security or safety equipment.
The ambiance is friendly and supportive with most participants in it to finish rather than win. It really is a fantastic running experience!
For friends and family accompanying runners there are kids races and short taster trails on the Saturday and there are a whole host of fun activities, walks to try and beautiful views to admire in the area whilst your loved one is running. We can organise additional activities for you on request.
Have a look at our trail running kit list which should give you ideas about what you need. You may also be interested in another trail running event The Gapencimes .
You need to get to Gap train station where we will collect you from. Gap has rail links from Paris (via overnight sleeper), Grenoble, Marseilles and Valence.
The nearest airports are Grenoble, Lyon and Marseilles, both approximately 2.5hrs drive from us here in the Alps. There are regular buses from Marseille airport to Gap.
We can help you plan your journey here so please ask. If you prefer to drive here (which can be a great way to see some parts of our beautiful region), we'll give you our best tips and recommendations.
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