7 Days Hiking the UTMB 170 Km Race Route - Day 1

November 12, 2023

7 Days of Breathtaking Views and Challenging Trails: Hiking the UTMB Route - Day 1

Welcome to Peak after Peak, where age is just a number, and the spirit of adventure knows no boundaries. I'm thrilled to share the incredible journey of hiking the entire UTMB loop in a week, with a luxurious twist. Our hiking group, a mix of UTMB finishers, enthusiasts, and non-hikers, returns each day to a splendid chalet in Chamonix. Join me as I recount the highlights of each day, starting with Day 1, from Chamonix to Saint-Gervais, a path that began at the famous church, the UTMB's symbolic start line.

The UTMB Trail - A Spectacular Start:
The Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) is a world-renowned trail race that circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif, taking hikers and runners through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Covering approximately 170 kilometers of diverse landscapes, it's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. But we're not just any hikers; we're a vibrant group, including UTMB finishers and attendees, like-minded individuals who share a love for the outdoors.

Day 1: A Journey from Chamonix to Saint-Gervais - An Epic Beginning
Our journey began at the iconic church in Chamonix, a place steeped in UTMB history. It's not just a start line; it's a symbol of dreams and challenges. As we set off, excitement filled the air, and our companions were buzzing with anticipation.

Spectacular Views and Natural Beauty:
The trail from Chamonix to Saint-Gervais gifted us with breathtaking views. Towering peaks surrounded us, their majestic summits catching the morning light. The fresh, crisp mountain air invigorated our spirits, and the path was lined with vibrant wildflowers, adding a touch of color to our hike.
The first part of the route is easy and flat, following the river L’Arve until Les Houches. Along the way, we passed by some shops, restaurants, and hotels that cater to tourists and hikers. we also saw some runners who were doing their final training before the race.
Les Houches, a charming village known for its traditional alpine architecture. Take a moment to explore the quaint streets and admire the surrounding mountain scenery.
The weather was perfect for hiking: sunny but not too hot, with a gentle breeze. I felt energized and ready to tackle the first climb of the day: Col de Voza.

A Pit Stop at Col de Voza:
Col de Voza is a pass that connects Les Houches with Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. It is about 6 km long and has 600 m of elevation gain. It is not too steep or technical, but it is still a good warm-up for what's to come later. The trail goes through some forests and meadows, offering some shade and some views of the valley below. There are also some ski lifts and chalets along the way, reminding me that this area is also popular for winter sports.
We reached Col de Voza for a lunch break at APAS - Col de Voza that serves drinks and snacks. We sat on a terrace overlooking the Mont Blanc massif and admired the scenery. The mountains were so majestic and beautiful, I felt like I was in a postcard.
It was here that we had the unique opportunity to witness a train ascending the mountainside. The sight was a blend of modern engineering against a backdrop of timeless natural beauty, a reminder of the coexistence of tradition and innovation in this incredible region.

Walking in the Footsteps of UTMB Legends:
As we treaded along the path, I couldn't help but reflect on the history of the UTMB race, the race that I personally attempted three times. This is the very path where elite ultra-runners from around the world compete for glory. The route challenges their physical and mental limits, and I felt a deep sense of respect for the athletes who take on this incredible journey.

The Warmth of Saint-Gervais:
Leaving the summit of Col de Voza, along Chem du Delevret from there was a long decent about 6km. We passed green fields, forest and a railroad. After a day of exhilarating hiking, we arrived at the charming town of Saint-Gervais, nestled in the heart of the French Alps.

Saint-Gervais is a perfect destination for a summer vacation. The town is famous for its thermal baths where people can relax their muscles and rejuvenate in the healing waters while enjoying the stunning mountain views. Besides hiking, some of the outdoor activities that the town offers such as biking, climbing, and paragliding are also worth trying. The beauty of the Mont Blanc massif is amazing, and can be admired from different angles. Some cozy restaurants are in the town center they offer local cuisine with a mix of French and Savoyard specialties. Saint-Gervais is a place of discovery, fun, and relaxation. A perfect place to unwind.

Our plan was going back to our basecamp in Chamonix after the day hike so we have booked car service to bring us back. The luxurious chalet and our support group awaited our return, offering a comfortable retreat for the tired hikers. What better way to end a day of hiking than with a delicious meal and glasses of wine?

Once we were done with our yummy meal and finished our quick laundry, I snuggled into the cozy bed, relaxed and let my mind wander over the amazing day I had experienced: all the incredible things I saw, heard, smelled, tasted, and felt. It was such a fantastic day, full of laughters, beauty, challenges, rewards, and fun. I felt so grateful and lucky to have the tribe of supportive and inspiring peers to make this hike happened.

I smiled and drifted off to sleep, to rest and recharge for the next leg of my adventure.

Conclusion:
Day 1 of our UTMB journey was nothing short of epic. The views were awe-inspiring, the history of the UTMB race added significance to our steps, and our companions were the heart of the adventure. It's a reminder that age is no barrier to embracing the thrill of the outdoors and the beauty of nature.

Stay tuned for more of our journey as I share the route, GPX files, and the stunning pictures that capture the essence of each day. On Peak after Peak, we celebrate the joy of the journey, the beauty of nature, the bond of like-minded friends, and we reach for new summits.