Wild Glacier Marathon Lenk launches for the fifth edition of Wildstrubel by UTMB

The Wildstrubel by UTMB will mark its fifth edition in 2026 with the launch of the Wild Glacier Marathon Lenk, a spectacular new 42‑kilometre race linking the Bernese Oberland to Valais in Switzerland. With 2,700 metres of elevation gain, the marathon begins in Lenk and finishes in Crans‑Montana, completing the circle of five partner destinations around the Wildstrubel massif.

From alpine pastures and the Simmenfälle waterfalls, runners climb through the Hohberg and Iffighorn to reach the Wildhorn Hut and the glacial terrain of the Chilchiglacier. The route then crosses the historic Schnidejoch pass at 2,756 metres, before descending toward Lake Tseuzier and following the dramatic Bisse du Ro balcony path into Crans‑Montana. Along the way, athletes will glimpse three glaciers: Chilchiglacier, Turnengletscher and Wildhorngletscher.

Race Director Ryan Baumann said the new format “offers a varied and spectacular route, including rare proximity to a glacier. It strengthens the connection between the Bernese Oberland and Valais.”

Helena Galanakis of Lenk‑Simmental Tourismus added that the loop of five destinations is now complete, while Bruno Huggler of Crans‑Montana Tourism highlighted the diversity of landscapes and enhanced cohesion.

Crans‑Montana will host the finish, offering accommodation from camping to five‑star hotels, with sustainable transport plans to be announced.

The Wildstrubel by UTMB takes place from September 10 to 13, 2026.

Image top credit: Franck Oddoux