La Sportiva Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB 2027: Complete Guide for Trail Runners

The La Sportiva Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB® has earned its place among the world’s most spectacular mountain running events. Set in the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic race challenges runners with dramatic elevation changes, technical terrain, and breathtaking alpine scenery. In 2027, the event celebrates its landmark 20th edition. Whether you’re attempting your first mountain ultra or you’re a seasoned trail runner, the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2027 promises an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes.

Event Details

Dates: June 23-27, 2027 (race weekend)

120K Race Day: Friday, June 25, 2027

Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Dolomites, Italy

Edition: 20th anniversary

Series: UTMB® World Series

Available Distances:

• Lavaredo 120K: 120km, +5,800m elevation gain (the queen race)
• Lavaredo 80K: 80km, +4,600m elevation gain
• Lavaredo 50K: 50km, +2,600m elevation gain
• Lavaredo 20K: 20km, +1,000m elevation gain
• Lavaredo 10K by Night: 10km, +200m elevation gain
• Cortina Kids Race: Various youth distances

Why Run Lavaredo Ultra Trail?

Iconic Dolomite Scenery

The Lavaredo Ultra Trail showcases the Dolomites at their finest. Your journey takes you beneath the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo), one of the most recognizable mountain formations in the Alps, alongside the Cristallo, Tofane, Sorapis, and Croda da Lago. Expect alpine meadows, rocky ridges, mountain refuges, and panoramic views that will make you forget the burning in your legs. On the 120K, the passage at sunrise beneath the Tre Cime is one of the most magical moments in all of trail running.

A UTMB World Series Event

Since 2007, Lavaredo has grown into one of the sport’s benchmark races. Now part of the UTMB® World Series, it awards Running Stones toward entry into the UTMB Finals in Chamonix, while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for all participants. The race organization is renowned for its attention to detail, from well-stocked aid stations to precise course marking and mountain safety protocols.

Cultural and Culinary Experience

Cortina d’Ampezzo isn’t just a starting line—it’s a destination. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” the town hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and, more recently, co-hosted the 2026 Winter Olympics. It remains one of Italy’s premier mountain resorts. Beyond the race, you’ll experience authentic Italian mountain culture, exceptional cuisine, and the unique Ladin heritage of the Dolomites region.

A Distance for Everyone

With five race distances, Lavaredo offers a genuine entry point at every level. The 10K by Night and 20K are approachable introductions to Dolomite trail running, the 50K and 80K bridge the gap for developing ultra runners, and the 120K challenges even experienced athletes without requiring extreme technical mountaineering skills.

Choosing Your Distance

Lavaredo 120K – The Queen Race

Profile: 120km distance, +5,800m elevation gain

Start: Friday, June 25, 2027 at 11:00 PM from Corso Italia, Cortina

Time Limit: 30 hours

Experience Level: Advanced ultra runners

The flagship event circumnavigates the Dolomites around Cortina. The 11pm start is spectacular, sending runners into the night and delivering that unforgettable sunrise passage at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Runners face significant elevation changes, technical descents, and high-altitude passages. Previous ultra experience is strongly recommended.

Lavaredo 80K

Profile: 80km distance, +4,600m elevation gain

Start: From Val Marzon (Auronzo di Cadore), finishing in Cortina

Time Limit: 22 hours

Experience Level: Experienced ultra runners

A substantial mountain ultra in its own right, the 80K offers much of the drama of the queen race over a slightly shorter distance, with a point-to-point route finishing in Cortina.

Lavaredo 50K

Profile: 50km distance, +2,600m elevation gain

Start: Cortina, 8:00 AM

Time Limit: 12 hours

Experience Level: Intermediate trail runners

An excellent introduction to Dolomite mountain ultra running. While challenging, the 50km distance is achievable for runners transitioning from road marathons who have trail experience. The course offers spectacular scenery without the extreme demands of the longer routes.

Lavaredo 20K

Profile: 20km distance, +1,000m elevation gain

Start: Corso Italia, late afternoon (to enjoy the sunset)

Time Limit: 4 hours

Experience Level: Trail running beginners to intermediate

Short but intense, with steep climbs and technical descents — sometimes called “the meanest” of the routes for how much it packs into 20km. Perfect for first-time trail racers or as a reconnaissance run for future longer attempts.

Lavaredo 10K by Night

Profile: 10km distance, +200m elevation gain

Start: Evening, from Fiames

Experience Level: Beginners

A newer addition to the lineup, this gentle night race is ideal for those who want to sample trail running in a picturesque setting without significant technical or vertical demands.

Registration Information

Registration: Entries open in stages via the official UTMB World Series platform (lavaredo.utmb.world). Sign up for notifications on the official site to be alerted when your distance opens.

Important: The 120K sells out quickly. All distances require early registration, particularly for the 20th anniversary edition, which is expected to draw exceptional demand.

Entry Fees: Fees vary by distance and rise closer to race day. Expect the 120K in the region of €150+, scaling down for the shorter distances. Check the official site for current pricing, as UTMB World Series events price each edition individually.

Qualification & Running Stones:

As a UTMB World Series race, Lavaredo uses the Running Stones system. The longer distances (particularly the 120K and 80K) require Running Stones and/or a qualifying trail-running background to enter, and finishing them earns Running Stones toward UTMB Finals access. Requirements vary by year and distance — check the official race page for the exact Running Stones and qualification rules for your chosen event.

Medical Certificate: All participants must submit a valid medical certificate for competitive athletics, issued within one year of the race date (a standard requirement for races held in Italy).

Course Details and Strategy

Lavaredo 120K – Route Overview

Starting and finishing on Corso Italia in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the queen race takes runners on a grand tour of the Dolomites’ most spectacular peaks — the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cristallo, Tofane, Sorapis, and Croda da Lago. With the 11pm start, runners cover the early sections through the night and reach the Tre Cime around sunrise.

Elevation Gain: 5,800m of climbing (and equivalent descent)

Aid Stations: Multiple staffed aid stations with food, water, and medical support; natural fountains along the route allow water refills

Finish: Corso Italia, with a hot meal available at the Olympic Ice Stadium

Terrain and Technical Difficulty

Expect varied terrain including:

• Alpine trails with rocky sections
• Forest paths and fire roads
• Scree fields requiring careful foot placement
• Some exposed ridgeline sections
• Technical descents demanding concentration

While chains and fixed ropes are minimal, sure-footedness and confidence on technical terrain are essential. Weather conditions can change rapidly at altitude, adding to the challenge.

Weather Considerations

Late June in the Dolomites typically offers temperatures ranging between roughly 4°C and 19°C — a significant swing that reflects the altitude:

• Valley temperatures: Pleasant during the day, cooler at night
• Mountain temperatures: Can drop close to freezing at the highest elevations, especially overnight
• Conditions: Generally stable, but afternoon thunderstorms are possible
• Snow: Rare at this time of year but possible on north-facing slopes above 2,000m

Prepare for all conditions. The mandatory equipment list exists for good reason—mountain weather is unpredictable.

Training for Lavaredo Ultra Trail

Training Timeline for 120K

Plan for 20-24 weeks of focused training. For the June 2027 race:

January 2027: Base building with emphasis on time on feet. Include weekly long runs of 2-4 hours.

February 2027: Introduce vertical gain through hill repeats and mountain hiking. Build weekly elevation to 1,500-2,500m.

March 2027: Increase long run duration to 4-6 hours. Add back-to-back long runs on weekends to simulate race fatigue.

April 2027: Peak training with weekly volumes of 80-100km and 3,000-4,000m elevation gain. Include at least one training run exceeding 50km.

May 2027: Maintain volume while increasing race-pace efforts. Practice technical descents when tired.

June 2027 (Pre-Race): Two-week taper reducing volume by 40-50% while maintaining some intensity.

Specific Training Focus Areas

Vertical Gain Training: The 5,800m of climbing cannot be faked. If you don’t have mountains nearby, use stadium stairs, parking garages, or treadmill incline work. Aim for 80% of your weekly elevation gain in training.

Downhill Running: Descents destroy quads and test technique. Practice running downhill when fatigued, using proper form with quick, light steps rather than braking.

Night Running: The 120K’s 11pm start means you’ll run through the entire first night. Train with headlamps, practice eating during night hours, and understand how your body responds to fatigue after dark.

Technical Terrain: Spend time on rocky, uneven surfaces. Trail running requires different neuromuscular patterns than road running.

Hiking Power: On steep Dolomite climbs, power hiking is faster than running. Train your hiking muscles and practice using trekking poles efficiently.

Training for Shorter Distances

Shorter distances require proportionally less volume but similar training principles:

80K: 16-20 weeks training, peak long runs of 40-50km with 2,500m+ gain, significant back-to-back sessions

50K: 12-16 weeks training, peak long runs of 30-35km with 1,500m+ gain, weekly volume 50-70km

20K: 8-12 weeks training, peak long runs of 20-25km with 800m+ gain, weekly volume 35-50km

Essential Gear and Equipment

Mandatory Equipment (120K and longer)

The race organization publishes a mandatory equipment list in line with UTMB World Series standards. Typical requirements include:

• Trail running shoes with aggressive tread
• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Emergency survival blanket
• Waterproof jacket with taped seams and hood
• Long-sleeved thermal layer
• Waterproof pants or leggings
• Gloves and hat/beanie
• Whistle
• Elastic bandage / first aid provision
• Mobile phone (with the emergency numbers saved)
• Hydration system with minimum 1L capacity
• Personal cup for aid stations (single-use cups are not provided)
• Food reserves

Equipment checks occur at registration and may happen at aid stations. Missing mandatory items results in penalties or disqualification. Always check the official current-year list, as UTMB requirements are updated regularly.

Recommended Additional Gear

• Trekking poles: Highly recommended for both climbs and descents. Collapsible poles fit easily in your vest when not needed.
• GPS watch: Track pace, elevation, and navigate course if needed
• Gaiters: Keep debris out of shoes on rocky sections
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: Alpine sun is intense
• Blister kit: Tape, needle, and prevention products
• Extra layers: Lightweight down jacket for early morning cold

Nutrition Strategy

Aid stations provide typical ultra offerings: water, isotonic drinks, cola, broth, bread, cheese, salami, fruit, cookies, and energy gels. Food and drinks are served by aid station personnel, and only athletes with a visible bib have access. Carry your preferred nutrition between stations, and remember that any purchases at mountain refuges are at your own expense.

For the 120K race, plan for:

• 250-350 calories per hour
• Mix of solid and liquid calories
• Salty foods to replace electrolytes
• Caffeine strategy for the night section
• Familiar foods that you’ve tested in training

Race Week Logistics

Getting to Cortina d’Ampezzo

By Air:

• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Approximately 160km away, around 2.5 hours by car
• Treviso Airport (TSF): Approximately 140km away, around 2 hours by car
• Innsbruck Airport (INN), Austria: Approximately 180km away, around 2.5 hours by car

By Car: Most convenient option if traveling from within Europe. Note that temporary traffic and road closures are in effect around Cortina during race weekend — check the official information page. Parking fills quickly.

By Bus: Regular bus services connect Venice and other nearby cities to Cortina. Cortina Express and Dolomiti Bus operate routes throughout the region.

Accommodation

Book early—Cortina is a popular destination, and the race weekend significantly increases demand. The 2027 event is the 20th edition, so expect even higher demand than usual.

Hotels: Range from luxury 5-star properties to comfortable 3-star hotels. Expect €100-€300+ per night during race weekend.

Apartments: Good value for groups or families. Many available through local rental agencies.

Official Travel Partner: UTMB works with an official travel partner offering race-hotel packages and airport transfers for those who want to remove the logistics stress.

Camping: Several campgrounds operate near Cortina for budget-conscious participants.

Race Expo and Bib Collection

The race village and bib collection are based in Cortina, typically in the days before race weekend.

Activities include:

• Bib and timing chip collection
• Mandatory equipment check
• Drop bag preparation and submission
• Sponsor village with outdoor brands
• Pre-race briefings and course presentations
• Pasta party events (registration usually required)

Race Day Strategy

Start Time Planning

The 120K starts at 11:00 PM on Friday, June 25, 2027 — meaning you run through the entire first night before the Tre Cime sunrise. The 50K starts Cortina at 8:00 AM, the 20K in the late afternoon to catch the sunset, and the 10K by Night in the evening. The 80K starts from Val Marzon. Confirm exact start times for your race on the official site.

Pacing Strategy – 120K

Opening night section: Start conservatively. The early climbs are steep—hiking them is smart, not weak. Settle into a sustainable rhythm and save energy for the long night and the climbing ahead.

Deep night: This is where experience matters—resist the urge to push too hard when you feel good early. Fuel consistently and stay ahead of hydration.

Dawn and the Tre Cime: The hardest section mentally and physically comes in the pre-dawn hours. Focus on reaching the next aid station. The sunrise at the Tre Cime brings renewed energy—use it wisely.

Final third (daytime): Push if you have reserves, survive if you don’t. The final descents can be brutal on tired legs, so maintain focus on technical sections.

Aid Station Strategy

Efficient aid station use saves significant time:

• Know what you need before arriving
• Refill bottles/flasks quickly (and use the natural fountains along the route)
• Grab food while moving to the exit
• Use drop bag access points strategically (change socks, restock nutrition, swap gear)
• Don’t linger—sitting makes it harder to start again

Night Running Tips

• Carry spare batteries and know how to change them quickly
• Use both headlamp and chest lamp for better depth perception on descents
• Expect energy drops between 2:00-4:00 AM—plan caffeine accordingly
• Stay warm—slowing down at night can lead to rapid cooling
• Follow markers carefully—course finding is harder in darkness

Post-Race Recovery

Immediate Recovery

After finishing:

• Collect your finisher recognition and enjoy the hot meal at the Olympic Ice Stadium
• Eat and drink immediately, even if not hungry
• Keep moving for 10-15 minutes before sitting
• Get warm clothes on quickly, especially if finishing in cooler hours
• Address any blisters or injuries before they worsen

Recovery Week

Plan for 7-10 days of minimal running after the 120K:

• Days 1-3: Walking only, ice baths, compression, sleep
• Days 4-7: Light jogging on flat surfaces if feeling recovered
• Week 2: Gradual return to normal training, no intensity work
• Weeks 3-4: Resume structured training if fully recovered

Don’t underestimate the recovery demands of a mountain ultra—your body has undergone significant stress.

Exploring Cortina and the Dolomites

Pre-Race Activities

Acclimatization Hikes: Spend a few days before the race hiking in the area. The Tre Cime loop and Cinque Torri are excellent short hikes to prepare legs for the terrain.

Corso Italia: Cortina’s pedestrian main street — and the start/finish hub — offers shopping, cafes, and people-watching. Great for light recovery walks.

Carbohydrate Loading: Italian cuisine makes carb-loading a pleasure. Try local specialties like casunziei (beetroot-filled pasta), polenta, and spätzle.

Post-Race Sightseeing

With sore legs, focus on experiences that don’t require excessive hiking:

Cable Car Adventures: Take the Faloria cable car or a gondola to mountain viewpoints without the climb.

Lake Misurina: Short drive to a stunning alpine lake, perfect for easy walking and photos.

Rifugio Dining: Many mountain huts are accessible by car or short walks. Enjoy traditional mountain cuisine with spectacular views.

Olympic Heritage: Cortina hosted the 1956 and co-hosted the 2026 Winter Olympics. Visit the Olympic Ice Stadium and other legacy venues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Insufficient Vertical Training: You cannot fake 5,800m of climbing. Flat-terrain runners who neglect hill training suffer disproportionately.

New Gear on Race Day: The Dolomites are not the place to test new shoes, packs, or nutrition. Everything should be thoroughly proven in training.

Starting Too Fast: The night start and fresh legs tempt runners to push early. Discipline in the opening hours pays dividends at 100km.

Neglecting Poles: Pride keeps some runners from using trekking poles. This is foolish—poles save massive energy on both climbs and descents.

Inadequate Night Practice: Running through the night with minimal sleep is a skill. Practice it before race day.

Ignoring Cutoff Times: Each checkpoint has strict cutoffs. Know them, track them, and maintain pace to stay safely ahead.

Underestimating Weather: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Carry all mandatory equipment even if the forecast looks perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lavaredo Ultra Trail a good first ultra?

The 120K is not recommended as a first ultra due to the elevation, technical terrain, and night running. However, the 50K can work well for runners transitioning from road marathons who have trail experience and adequate vertical training, and the 20K or 10K by Night are great first tastes of Dolomite trail running.

What are Running Stones and do I need them?

Running Stones are UTMB World Series entry credits, earned by finishing qualifying races. The longer Lavaredo distances require them for entry and award them on completion, contributing toward UTMB Finals access in Chamonix. Check the official race page for the exact requirements for your distance and year.

Do I need to speak Italian?

While not required, basic Italian phrases help. Many race officials and mountain refuge staff speak English, especially during the event. The race organization provides information in English and Italian.

Can I run with my dog?

No. Having animals accompany participating athletes is strictly prohibited and leads to immediate disqualification.

What happens if I don’t make a cutoff time?

You must retire from the race. Aid station staff will help arrange transport back to Cortina.

Are trekking poles allowed?

Yes, trekking poles are allowed and highly recommended for all distances. Most competitive runners use them.

How do I track runners during the race?

Live tracking is available through the official race website and the UTMB app. Each runner’s bib chip provides position updates at checkpoint crossings.

Is altitude a concern?

The highest points are generally not high enough to cause serious altitude issues for most runners. However, those living at sea level may notice slightly reduced performance. Arriving a few days early helps with acclimatization.

Essential Resources

• Official Website: lavaredo.utmb.world
• Course Maps: Available on the official website with GPX downloads
• Cortina Tourism: cortinadampezzo.it/en
• Weather Forecast: mountain-forecast.com
• Transportation: cortinaexpress.it / dolomitibus.it

Final Thoughts

The La Sportiva Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB® represents mountain trail running at its finest. The combination of world-class organization, spectacular Dolomite scenery, and challenging yet fair courses creates an experience that stays with you long after the finish line. Whether you’re tackling the full 120K circumnavigation, testing yourself on the 80K or 50K, or sampling Dolomite running with the 20K or 10K by Night, you’re in for an extraordinary adventure — and 2027 marks a special milestone as the race celebrates its 20th edition.

The race demands respect—proper training, quality gear, and mountain sense are non-negotiable. But for those who prepare adequately, the Lavaredo Ultra Trail delivers everything a trail runner could want: physical challenge, natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the pride of completing one of Europe’s premier mountain ultras.

Start your training plan early, secure your registration quickly when it opens, and prepare to experience why thousands of runners from around the world make the pilgrimage to Cortina d’Ampezzo each June. The Dolomites are calling, and on June 23-27, 2027, you’ll answer with every step, climb, and descent through this magnificent mountain playground.

Ready to make it count? Track your Lavaredo training and race day on RunningLog — log your vertical gain, record your result, and build the complete story of your journey to the finish line beneath the Tre Cime.