14 July 2025
The Wildstrubel by UTMB®, a trail competition which offers several different race distances, is taking place soon. Straddling the cantons of Valais and Bern, this sporting event is a magnificent journey through Switzerland as the whole world imagines it: perfectly tended mountain pastures, breathtaking views of the Valais 4,000-metre peaks, carefully tended landscapes in the Bernese Oberland, as well as the high mineral environment of the Wildstrubel massif.
In collaboration with Ryan Baumann, the Wildstrubel by UTMB® race director, Crans-Montana Tourism and Congress suggests 3 routes in order to train for the Wild 25 / 20K. This short, very edgy format is ideal for runners who already have 1 or 2 trail experiences under their belt. But what makes this race so special?
According to Ryan Baumann: “The Wild 25 course is a reflection of the playground that this region offers. It's a varied, accessible and not too technically difficult course. Starting in Leukerbad, in the heart of the mountain cirque, the course takes you to Varenalp via a long, easy climb with a spectacular, secured passage through a cliff. From Varenalp, on a clear day, there's a view of the Valais 4,000 peaks. The refreshment area is on the mountain pasture, and offers cheese and dried meat produced by the herdsman on the alp. The descent to Crans-Montana is easy and varied, taking in alpine pastures, forests and irrigation streams, or bisses. It's a great way to prepare for the Wild 50!”
Practical info
Date: Sunday 21 September 2025
Distance: 25 km
Height gain: 1,200M+
Race category: 20K
Start: Leukerbad, Canton of Valais
Running Stones: 1
However, even if this “little” weekend race doesn't seem that big, training is essential! Here are 3 route recommendations to help you prepare for the big day.
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This route takes you along the edge of the Plaine Morte glacier, through lunar landscapes, offering breathtaking views and motivation for the rest of your training.
Take the cable car up to Plaine-Morte, then head for the Wildstrubel Cabin via the magnificent Lake Huiton. After refreshments at the cabin, head back down to Plaine Morte via the Pointe de Vatseret.
Practical info
Distance: 7.34 km
Ascent: 633 m
Descent: 636 m
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To continue your training, we recommend a trail from Crans-Montana towards the Tseuzier dam and its emerald lake. The distance and gradient of this route are similar to those you'll encounter on the Wild 25. As well as the lake, you can explore other highlights of the destination, such as the Bisse du Ro and its spectacular footbridge.
Practical info
Distance: 19.54 km
Ascent: 886 m
Descent: 885 m
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Finally, our expert recommends a 10km route for your last training run. It will allow you to set a bit of a race pace, and it is ideal preparation for the Wild 25. From the Colombire Alpine Museum, where there is a refreshment post on the race day, the Wild 25 and this route are identical. So you'll be able to do a little reconnaissance, which is ideal a couple of weeks before the race.
Practical info
Distance: 10.90 km
Ascent: 500 m
Descent: 518 m
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To conclude, Ryan Baumann, a local and seasoned trail runner since 2005, tells us: «The key words to progress and prepare for the Wild 25 are: consistency, perseverance and fun. It’s going to be an extraordinary experience in Crans-Montana. Good luck with your preparation, and I wish you every success! »
We'd like to thank Ryan Baumann for his sound advice, and his passion for trail running in our beautiful region.
On your marks, get set…go !
Useful links
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