Description
Trail running in three countries around Mont Blanc
The Mont Blanc massif offers an extensive network of trails, from valley circuits to high passes and long links between mountain areas. This guide brings together running routes in France, Switzerland and Italy. Use it to plan a running holiday from a single base or study longer journeys across the region, with options ranging from short outings to full days in the mountains.
40 routes with clear terrain grades
Routes range from approximately 3.8 kilometres to much longer itineraries, including the 168-kilometre UTMB circuit as described in this edition. Grades from 1 to 5 distinguish trail running, fell running and skyrunning terrain. Chamonix, Les Houches, Vallorcine, Champex and Courmayeur provide different starting points. The selection also includes reconnaissance itineraries associated with the OCC, CCC and TDS.
Maps, profiles and practical information
Descriptions are supported by 1:100,000 maps and route profiles. Distance, ascent, descent and timing information help you compare options, and GPX files are available from Cicerone. The book discusses bases, travel, weather, navigation and equipment for Alpine running. It helps you choose a realistic route and plan transport, kit and sufficient margins when the terrain is more demanding than your usual training trails.
Choose routes to match your mountain experience
A shorter distance does not necessarily mean easier ground. Technical ridges and high passes require mountain skills as well as running fitness. Weather, snow and current conditions should guide your choice. The book suits runners looking for specific route suggestions that they can adapt to their abilities. Race courses can change, so routes in the book are not a guarantee of current event itineraries or access.
About this edition
English-language guidebook by Kingsley Jones. First edition published in 2016, with subsequent reprints. 240 pages. ISBN 9781852848002.
