Kilomètre Vertical du Blayeul

The Kilomètre Vertical du Blayeul is a short, intense uphill race held in Verdaches, within the Vallée du Bès in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It takes place in October, employing an individual time-trial format where runners depart every 30 seconds. The objective is straightforward: ascend 1,000 meters as quickly as possible over a 2.9 km course featuring no flat terrain. The route ascends directly towards the summit of Le Blayeul, peaking at 2,189 meters. It follows forest paths before transitioning into alpine pastures. The allowance of walking poles indicates the steepness of the gradient. At the summit, participants receive refreshments and a panoramic 360-degree view across the Southern Alps. Local race organizers consider it a benchmark vertical race in the area, and certain years it can be combined with the Trail de Digne-les-Bains held the following morning.