MONTE ROSA SKYMARATHON – 4554m – Team race (pairs)
Distance: 35 km. Elevation gain/loss: 7000m +/-
The Monte Rosa SkyMarathon is not only the highest race in Europe, but also the birthplace of skyrunning, where everything began in 1992 in Alagna Valsesia (VC).
After the last edition in 1996, the race was relaunched in 2018 with a new format, retracing the original route every year up to the summit of Monte Rosa at 4,554 meters. This unique event in pure skyrunning style crosses moraines, snowfields, and glaciers for 35 kilometers with an elevation gain and loss of 7,000 meters.
In 2025, an uphill-only version was introduced, the Monte Rosa SkySummit. In both races, athletes compete in teams of two, roped together for safety reasons. For those who wish to race solo, the new Monte Rosa SkyRace will be launched in 2026, a re-edition of the last race held exactly 30 years ago: 25 km in length with 5,000 m of total elevation gain and loss up to the Gnifetti Hut at 3,647m.
Four races make up the Monte Rosa events in 2026, including the AMA VK2, a double Vertical Kilometer®. All races exceed an altitude of 3,000 m, staying true to the original concept of being home to the highest race in Europe.
The races will take place on Saturday, June 13th, 2026. In case of bad weather, they may be postponed to Sunday, June 14th, 2026.
© Damiano Benedetto Photo