7 Days Hiking the UTMB 170 Km Race Route - Day 4

March 11, 2024

Welcome back to the enthralling chronicles of our 7-day hike along the UTMB race route. If you've been following our journey, you know that every step is a testament to resilience, passion, and the sheer joy of exploration. Day 4 saw us traverse the awe-inspiring landscapes from the charming town of Courmayeur to the enchanting Arnouvaz, with Refuge Bertone and Refuge Bonatti gracing our path.

Day 4 Overview: Courmayeur to Arnouvaz - An Alpine Symphony

Our trail on Day 4 unfolded across 17.4 km, featuring a challenging ascent of 1,201m and a descent of 610m. The average gradient for the ascent was 6.9%, providing us with a challenging yet rewarding experience. Departing from the picturesque Courmayeur, situated at an altitude of 1,200m, the journey took us through a captivating terrain that showcased the grandeur of the Italian Alps.

Ascending to Refuge Bertone: A Transformative Climb

The initial stretch presented a gradual ascent, allowing us to savor the charm of Courmayeur's cafes and shops. As we approached Refuge Bertone at 1,989m, the terrain became steeper, adorned with uneven rocks and tree roots. Memories of the race flooded back, particularly the grueling climb after an 80km run. However, this time around, it felt like a walk in the park – a testament to the transformation that time and a different perspective can bring.

The scenery during this ascent was nothing short of spectacular. Resting in a flat area before reaching the refuge, we were treated to panoramic views of Courmayeur town nestled below, a sight overlooked during the race as I was solely focused on watching my steps.

Refuge Bertone: A Lesson Learned, A View Regained

Refuge Bertone, a supply station in the race, held both historical and emotional significance. It was here that, in a past attempt, I made the tough decision to withdraw. Today, enjoying lunch amidst the stunning surroundings, I reflected on the race's pivotal moments and the lessons learned. The regret of not pushing forward last time was replaced by the joy of reclaiming the mesmerizing views missed during the rush of the race.

Traversing Alpine Bliss to Refuge Bonatti: Peaks, Glaciers, and Tranquility

The subsequent flat 7 km to Refuge Bonatti unfolded some of the most breathtaking views of the entire UTMB route. Magnificent views of Arétes de Rochefort and Grandes Jorasses greeted us, casting a spell of awe and reverence. The sprawling glaciers and jagged peaks painted a picture of pristine beauty.

Picture-perfect moments were captured, including drone play and the kindness of a local couple who helped immortalize our journey. This section, with its beauty and tranquility, left us yearning to return.

Facing Nature's Fury: Stormy Descent to Arnouvaz

As we navigated the flat and downhill trails towards Arnouvaz, nature presented us with a challenge – a storm accompanied by lightning. Running with caution, our hearts raced, not only from the descent but also from the electrifying display above. Swift and determined, we reached safety, ending the day's hike with a mix of contentment, joy, and laughter.

Recommendation: Courmayeur to Arnouvaz - A Must-Experience Alpine Gem

For those with limited time in Italy, the Courmayeur to Arnouvaz section stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty of the Italian Alps. Easily accessible from Courmayeur, this segment offers not only a relatively manageable hike but a visual feast of glaciers, peaks, and alpine wonders. It's a journey worth undertaking, a day well spent in the embrace of nature's grandeur.

Join me for the next installment as we continue our trek along the UTMB route, discovering more wonders and conquering new heights. Until then, keep chasing those dreams and embracing the beauty of the journey!

Take a look into the stunning pictures >>> UTMB Hike : Day 4