From underground tunnels to Charlemagne’s legendary road, from night climbs at Passo dei Contrabbandieri to spectacular alpine lakes: #AUT (September 26–28) kicks off a new chapter with the same passion as its very first edition
Although spring is running late, preparations are in full swing across the Pontedilegno-Tonale area for an action-packed summer season. As tradition demands, the Adamello Ultra Trail (September 26–28) will be the grand finale, bridging summer and fall. After months of anticipation, the trail and ultra-running event straddling Alta Val Camonica and Alta Val di Sole is ready to open its second decade with the same excitement that marked its debut in 2014.
#AUT is renowned for a course that blends natural beauty, challenging terrain, and historic landmarks: from the wartime tunnels of Cima Rovaia to the imposing walls of Bocchetta di Valmassa, from the picturesque village of Case di Viso to the torch-lit night ascent of Passo dei Contrabbandieri. Runners cross from Lombardy into Trentino before returning through the well-known Passo del Tonale. From there, they follow the Via Carolingia — used by Charlemagne in the 9th century to travel from Aachen to Rome for his imperial coronation — heading towards Ponte di Legno, the true turning point of the route.
At roughly 80 km into the race, Ultra Trail competitors (170 km) can rest and refuel at the life base before tackling many more hours of running through some of the course’s most iconic and demanding sections. From Corno d’Aola to the incredible passage through Aviolo Lake and onward to the Bivouac Valerio Festa, runners then face one of the race’s most decisive competitive points: the Rifugio Alla Cascata. The final stretch features great views and cheering fans at Mortirolo Lake, the magnificent colors of Pianacci, and a triumphant finish line in Vezza d’Oglio (Brescia).
For 100 km participants, Ponte di Legno marks the turning point from the longer route and the start of a thrilling final descent. Just over 15 kilometers, mostly downhill, will decide the Adamello Trail 100 km champion.
From just over 600 meters above sea level in Edolo to over 2600 meters at Passo dei Contrabbandieri, Adamello Ultra Trail showcases the beauty and uniqueness of a territory that, 110 years ago, witnessed one of the darkest chapters of modern history. Traces of World War I are still clearly visible and open to visitors, thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers and local organizations like Cai Pezzo-Ponte di Legno, Comunità Montana di Valle Camonica, Unione dei Comuni, and the Consorzi Forestali of Alta Valle Camonica.
Today, these lands are dedicated year-round to outdoor sports and tourism, with running in all its forms leading the way. Road and mountain biking — including exciting Bike Parks — climbing, skiing, ski mountaineering, and glacier adventures are just some of the experiences awaiting visitors to the Pontedilegno-Tonale area.
INFO & REGISTRATION
Registration for all four Adamello Ultra Trail distances (170, 100, 60, and 35 km) is now open, with exclusive Early Bird rates available until June 30. From July 1 onward, standard rates will apply for the three longer distances. For the 170 km and 100 km races, there is also a collaboration with the international trail running circuit TORX eXperience, offering 15 slots to register for the Tor Des Géants – TOR330 without going through the lottery.
