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Justin Galant

The ascent of the Eagle's Nest a mountain race not to be missed!

Since 1986… A history at the foot of Mont Blanc

The ascent of the Nid d’Aigle has been part of Saint Gervais Mont Blanc’s heritage for decades. With the same route as in the early days, the race is now a must for mountain running specialists.

The Course du Nid d’Aigle is a Classic. A mountain race that was undulating on the slopes of Mont Blanc before the word Trail even existed. An event that is neither old nor new, but a classic. To run it is to honour the tradition of the pioneers. The real ones. Those of the genepi-saucisson-Beaufort diet. And winning its 33ᵉ edition is an immense source of pride.

Baptiste Chassagne, winner of the 2019 edition.

The climb up the eagle's nest An epic race

From past to present day, this ascent offers an arrival at the gateway to the Mont Blanc access route used by mountaineers. The descent on the famous Tramway du Mont-Blanc rack railway is a distinctive feature of this historic race.

The race is also the time when the 250 hard-working volunteers come together for this popular summer festival. Marked by its authenticity and simplicity, the Montée du Nid d’Aigle takes place on the 3rd weekend in July.

The Montée du Nid d’Aigle is an iconic mountain race. The Nid d’Aigle is the starting point for the ascent of Mont Blanc. The race involves climbing a steep slope from Le Fayet to the Nid d’Aigle at a considerable altitude, making it a physically demanding challenge for participants. The event attracts passionate mountain runners and elite athletes from all over the world.

Race records

Women's record

2:00:31 -NJERU Joyce Muthoni – 2022

Men's record

1:38:54- KIPNGENO Patrick – 2022

What is mountain running?

Courses

Take to the mountains on marked routes that are ideal for running. There are 3 disciplines:

    • Dry ascent
    • Classic short distance between 10 and 20 km
    • Long distance from 20 to 45 km

    Equipment

      • No poles allowed.
      • Refreshment points very close together so you don’t have to carry a bag.
      • No compulsory equipment, just a T-shirt and trainers.
    Technical details of the race "A temporarily unprecedented edition

    To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Montée du Nid d’Aigle is returning to its historic finish. A not-to-be-missed event for fans of sporting and mountain challenges, this legendary race will once again take you through some of the most beautiful trails in Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc. Le Pratz, Le Champel, Pont des Places… and the legendary finish at the Nid d’Aigle.

    A real challenge in the heart of a grandiose, unspoilt natural setting. Then the descent on the legendary Mont-Blanc tramway.

    Situation

    Location : Saint-Gervais Les-Bains, 74170

    Start: Parc Thermal du Fayet – Altitude 596 m

    Finish: Nid d’Aigle – Altitude 2407 m

    Profile

    Distance: 19.5 KM

    Ascent: 2000D+ (positive )

    Negative ascent: 650D-

    Information

    Refreshment points on the course :

    A cup or containers for refreshments

    5 food stations

    7 water stations

    Assistance

    Tolerated at refreshment posts only

    – 10m before – 10m after.

    If refuelling outside the refuelling zone > disqualification.

    Hardware

    No equipment required (except Extreme Conditions).

    Sticks forbidden (except hiking).

    No bags.

    Control

    Checkpoints will be set up along the route.

    The race and ride closers will bring up the control sheets to check that all the runners have passed through.