UltrAriège Pyrénées

The ultra-trail of the Ariège Pyrenees

In just a few years, UltrAriège Pyrénées has become one of the most renowned trail running events in the Pyrenean massif. Organized every year in mid-July, this ultra-trail crosses the wildest and most spectacular landscapes of Haute-Ariège, from the resorts of Guzet and Monts d'Olmes to the spa town of Ax-les-Thermes, the common finish line for all races. Runners navigate between Pyrenean peaks, beech forests, summer pastures, and mountain villages, in a breathtaking setting.

Six races for all runner profiles

UltrAriège offers 6 races over 5 distances, allowing every trail runner to find a challenge suited to their level:

• 160 km Ultra (10,500 m D+) : the flagship event, solo or in a 3-person relay, starting from Guzet. An extreme course crossing the Ariège ridges in semi-autonomy.
• 100 km Ultra (6,500 m D+) : starting from Mercus, a demanding ultra through the Ariège valley and the Donezan mountains.
• 55 km Trail (2,700 m D+) : starting from the Monts d'Olmes, a technical and scenic trail.
• 23 km Trail (1,200 m D+) : starting from Ax-les-Thermes, a dynamic event accessible to experienced trail runners.
• 15 km Trail (750 m D+) : starting from Ax-les-Thermes, a discovery trail ideal for beginners in mountain trail running.

Semi-autonomy and mountain spirit

UltrAriège operates on a semi-autonomous basis: runners must be self-sufficient between aid stations, carrying their own safety equipment (survival blanket, warm clothing, water and food supplies). Aid stations are located along the routes, staffed by volunteers who welcome runners with warmth and generosity. This organization reflects the spirit of the event: a human adventure as much as a sporting one, where solidarity between runners and volunteers is an integral part of the experience.

A unifying event for the region

Based in Ax-les-Thermes, UltrAriège is a unifying event that mobilizes many municipalities in Haute-Ariège: Guzet, Aulus, Vicdessos, Mercus-Garrabet, the Monts d'Olmes, Ax-les-Thermes, and many other villages crossed by the runners. The event contributes to the sporting and tourist appeal of the department, attracting trail runners from all over France and abroad each year. Limited to 1,500 bibs, it maintains a friendly and mountainous spirit that makes it a popular event for trail enthusiasts.