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The HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc is the race that made Chamonix the trail running capital of the world. Every year in late August, several thousand runners set out to circle the Mont Blanc massif, spanning France, Italy, and Switzerland, on a course covering more than 170 km with over 10,000 m of elevation gain for the flagship race. Other race formats (CCC, TDS, OCC, etc.) revolve around it, creating a full week of events in the valley from August 24 to 30.
It's not just a sporting event—it's a moment the entire valley looks forward to, combining teamwork, a festive atmosphere, and the solidarity of the cheering crowds along the route.
Saint-Gervais is the first major aid station on the UTMB course and one of the liveliest spots from the very start of the race. The first runners are expected to arrive starting at 7:30 p.m., and the town center is transformed for the evening: music, a dense crowd, and cheers rising from the terraces.
The road between the bridge roundabout and the Gontard roundabout (the heart of the village) will be closed from 4:00 p.m. until the end of the race. This is one of the most popular sections of the entire UTMB week, just a few minutes’ walk from PlanB.
On Friday, August 28, from 6:00 p.m. to midnight, traffic changes are expected for those traveling to the village.
Here's a tip: aim to arrive before 6 p.m. If your route allows it, avoid any detours.
Arriving after 6 p.m.? A pass is available at the Saint-Gervais Tourist Office. Just make sure to:
Can't stop by the Office before you arrive? Call +33 (0)4 50 47 76 08: we'll walk you through the process remotely and explain how to pick it up in person on the day of your visit.
All official information on traffic conditions can be found on the UTMB Mont-Blanc website.
Starting with PlanB, you don’t need a car to enjoy the UTMB evening: the Le Valléen gondola drops you off right in the center of Saint-Gervais, just a stone’s throw from where the runners pass by. And on Friday, August 28, it will remain open until 10:30 p.m. as a special exception. That gives you plenty of time to head up and watch the race at your leisure, then head back down without worrying about road closures.
Experiencing the UTMB from Saint-Gervais means enjoying the excitement of the race without the constant crowds in Chamonix. From PlanB Living Saint-Gervais, you’re just a few minutes away from Le Valléen and the village center. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the evening to the fullest and then head back to relax without a never-ending commute!
Rooms, a dorm for solo travelers, and an XL room for groups of supporters: at PlanB, there’s a place for everyone, even in the middle of UTMB week. The bar and common areas stay open so you can keep the night going or just take a breather before heading out to explore the Montjoie Valley the next day.
No. PlanB is not an official partner of the event. The sole purpose of this article is to help you plan your stay and your travel arrangements during race week.
Yes, provided you have a pass issued by the Saint-Gervais Tourist Office (vehicle registration certificate + proof of residence). Without a pass, access to the village is restricted between 6:00 p.m. and midnight.
From PlanB, take the Le Valléen gondola: it drops you off right in the center of Saint-Gervais, near the race course. On Friday, August 28, it will be running until 10:30 p.m. as a special exception.
In the heart of the village, near the race's first major aid station. The first runners are expected to arrive starting at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, August 28.
Contact the Saint-Gervais Tourist Office directly at +33 (0)4 50 47 76 08, or the PlanB team: we're here to help you plan ahead.