Ortler Sky Trails

Ortler Sky Trails is a high-altitude trail race on and around King Ortler. The main marathon covers 26.5 miles with 11,673 feet of climbing. It begins on the mountain's slopes and concludes in Sulden, featuring almost no asphalt and a route composed primarily of single track. Prior mountain experience is strongly advised, as runners will encounter glacier ice, rocks, snow patches, exposed slopes, and long sections with minimal shelter from adverse weather. The course crosses a glacier at sunrise, ascends to the Tabarettascharte at 2,900 meters, then descends sharply into the Trafoi valley at 1,600 meters. From there, it crosses the Ortler near the old Zumpanell mines before returning through the forests of Stelvio National Park. While not described as highly technical, the altitude, exposure, and weather risks present a significant mountain challenge, with several emergency exit points along the route. It is both UTMB-qualifying and ITRA-certified, attracting participants seeking a certified ultra-style mountain effort over a standard road marathon.