Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB: Overview, Distances and Routes
The Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB is a crown jewel of the global trail running calendar, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps in Grindelwald. Part of the prestigious UTMB World Series, this event offers a range of distances that allow runners to challenge themselves amid iconic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. From a demanding 35km trail to the epic 250km UNESCO adventure, this series caters to beginners stepping into mountain running and seasoned ultrarunners seeking legendary alpine terrain. This guide breaks down each race—the E35, E51, E101, and E250—providing you with essential details on distances, elevations, routes, and the unique character of each challenge.
Eiger Ultra Trail - E35
Eiger Ultra Trail - E35 Poster
Conquer the trails beneath the North Face. The E35 poster is the ideal finisher gift, a lasting tribute to your alpine adventure.
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Why Run the Eiger Ultra Trail E35
The E35 is the perfect introduction to alpine trail racing within the Eiger Ultra Trail series. It offers a condensed, intense experience of the region’s most iconic scenery, delivering runners directly to the base of the legendary Eiger North Face. This race is designed for those who want a significant mountain challenge with a manageable distance, featuring steep climbs, high-altitude ridges, and unforgettable views. It’s a classic Swiss mountain race that packs a punch.
Distance & Elevation
The E35 covers 35 kilometers with an elevation gain of 2,500 meters. Starting in Burglauenen and finishing in Grindelwald, this race provides a substantial mountain challenge ideal for strong trail runners or those looking to step up from shorter races. The significant climb-to-distance ratio makes it a true test of mountain fitness, typically held in July amidst perfect alpine summer conditions.
Course Description
The course winds its way up from Burglauenen via Spätenalp to the picturesque village of Wengen. From there, runners tackle the infamous Gemsenweg, or ‘chamois way’, a steep ascent leading to the Männlichen ridge. Here, you are rewarded with breathtaking views deep into the Lauterbrunnen valley, with the triple peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau as a constant backdrop. The route then continues towards Kleine Scheidegg and the glacier moraine below the Eigergletscher. A sharp turn places you abruptly onto the traverse beneath the looming Eiger North Face—an awe-inspiring section where you feel the glacial winds and ancient rock. The final descent follows the Eiger Trail to Trychelegg and on to the finish in Grindelwald.
Eiger Ultra Trail - E51
Eiger Ultra Trail - E51 Poster
Capture the panoramic beauty of your journey. An E51 poster provides more than a digital certificate—it’s a permanent piece of your story.
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Why Run the Eiger Ultra Trail E51
Known as the Panorama Trail, the E51 delivers one of the most visually spectacular experiences in trail running. While the initial ascent towards Grosse Scheidegg is demanding, the rewards are boundless. This distance is perfect for runners seeking a full-day alpine adventure that showcases the region's iconic lakes, summits, and historic trails, offering a 360-degree immersion in Swiss mountain beauty.
Distance & Elevation
The E51 spans 51 kilometers with 3,100 meters of elevation gain. Starting and finishing in Grindelwald, this race represents a substantial ultra-distance challenge, often serving as a runner's first 50km mountain ultra. The elevation is significant but spread across a longer distance, testing endurance over a varied and scenic course. The race takes place in July.
Course Description
From Grindelwald, the route ascends towards Grosse Scheidegg before traversing to First and the stunning Bachalpsee. The journey continues to Oberläger and then to the crown jewel of the course: the Faulhorn summit at 2,680 meters, offering a 360° panorama that stays long in the memory. From this peak, the trail descends towards the historic Schynige Platte, with views stretching to the horizon. The course is a masterpiece of alpine trail design, blending challenging climbs with relentlessly beautiful scenery.
Eiger Ultra Trail - E101
Eiger Ultra Trail - E101 Poster
You deserve more than Strava kudos. Commemorate your monumental 101km journey with a detailed E101 finisher poster.
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Why Run the Eiger Ultra Trail E101
The E101 is the flagship ultra-distance race of the series, a mighty challenge that weaves through the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Jungfrau region. It is a race for seasoned trail runners seeking a quintessential, high-altitude 100km experience. The route encapsulates the essence of the Alps, passing famous passes, alpine villages, and, ultimately, traversing the base of the Eiger North Face itself.
Distance & Elevation
This ultra covers 101 kilometers with a formidable 6,700 meters of elevation gain. Starting and finishing in Grindelwald, the E101 is a true mountain ultra-marathon that demands exceptional physical and mental resilience. The elevation profile includes several major climbs and descents, making it a benchmark race for experienced ultrarunners. It is held in July.
Course Description
The epic route passes through Grosse Scheidegg, First, the pristine Bachalpsee, and the Berghotel Faulhorn. It continues to the famous Schynige Platte, descends to the idyllic village of Wengen, and climbs again to Männlichen. The final, defining section is the traverse along the base of the Eiger North Face, offering a raw and intimate encounter with one of the world's most iconic mountain walls. This course delivers a truly spectacular and complete alpine ultra-running experience.
Eiger Ultra Trail - E250 - UNESCO Trail
Eiger Ultra Trail - E250 - UNESCO Trail Poster
Your 250km odyssey through a World Heritage site deserves a permanent memorial. The E250 poster is the ultimate finisher gift.
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Why Run the Eiger Ultra Trail E250 - UNESCO Trail
The E250 is one of the most demanding and prestigious team ultra-trail events in the world. Run in teams of 2 or 3, it traverses the UNESCO World Heritage site “Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch.” This is more than a race; it's a multi-day expedition across imposing mountain ranges, rustic valleys, and the largest connected glaciated area in the Alps. It is a test of teamwork, endurance, and spirit, reserved for the most dedicated and capable adventurers.
Distance & Elevation
The E250 presents a colossal challenge: 250 kilometers with 18,000 meters of elevation gain. This distance elevates the event into the realm of expedition-style racing, requiring teams to manage sleep, nutrition, and strategy over several days. It is a true test for all participants and is typically held in July.
Course Description
The route is a grand tour of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region. It passes by Sefinafurgga, Hohtürli next to Blüemlisalphütte, through Gasterental and over the Lötschepass. It explores the historic Suonenwege irrigation channels in the Wallis, climbs to Blatten-Belalp, and skirts the monumental Aletschgletscher and Fieschergletscher. The journey continues through Goms, over the Grimselpass, through the Haslital, and past Rosenlaui before returning to Grindelwald. It is a continuous journey through the heart of Alpine natural history.
Overview Comparison
The Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB series offers a beautifully structured progression of challenges, all centered on Grindelwald. The E35 (35km/2500m+) serves as an intense introduction. The E51 (51km/3100m+) is the panoramic classic. The E101 (101km/6700m+) is the flagship ultra-marathon. The E250 (250km/18000m+) is the expedition-level team adventure. This range allows runners to select a race that matches their experience and ambition, with each event sharing the same stunning alpine DNA but offering a distinct level of immersion and difficulty.
How to Choose Your Distance
For runners new to alpine trail racing or seeking a challenging single-day mountain event, the E35 or E51 are perfect choices. The E35 is ideal for strong runners wanting a direct, iconic experience; the E51 offers a longer, more scenic ultra challenge. Experienced ultrarunners aiming for a classic 100km mountain race should target the E101—it’s a demanding but achievable pinnacle. The E250 is for elite teams and adventurers seeking a multi-day expedition through a UNESCO World Heritage site; it requires extensive experience in endurance events and mountain navigation. Consider your training background, comfort with elevation, and desire for team versus solo adventure when making your choice.
Registration & Key Dates
All Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB races typically take place in July. Registration for these events usually opens several months in advance and is managed through the official UTMB World Series platform. Due to their popularity and limited spots, it is advisable to monitor the official Eiger Ultra Trail website for exact registration windows, lottery details (if applicable), and key deadlines. Early planning is essential for securing a place in these iconic Swiss mountain races.
