Which race to choose: UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC or MCC?
Written by Victor Michel — history enthusiast and passionate alpinist based in Chamonix. Published July 12, 2026 · Updated September 20, 2026 · 3 min read
Eight formats are run every year around the Mont-Blanc massif, from 15 to 300 km. The choice depends on three criteria: ultra-trail experience, the UTMB Index already acquired, and the time available for specific training. The next edition, in 2027, is also expected in late August for the whole program (UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC, MCC) — exact dates not yet announced.
UTMB (174 km) — the historic format
The full tour of the massif, around 9,900 m of elevation gain, run over 2 to 3 days of near-continuous racing. Reserved for runners already experienced on 100-mile races, with a valid UTMB Index in the 100K or 100M category.
TDS (145 km) — the most technical
On the Traces des Ducs de Savoie explores the wildest, most demanding part of the massif, with a highly technical profile. Same index requirement as the UTMB (100K or 100M).
CCC (101 km) — the classic alternative
Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix crosses some of the most beautiful scenery in the Alps over a long but shorter format than the UTMB. Required index: 50K, 100K or 100M.
OCC (60 km) — the intermediate format
Orsières-Champex-Chamonix is the most common entry point for discovering the UTMB world without aiming for a 100-mile race. Index required from the 20K category.
MCC (40 km) — friendliness and proximity
Martigny-Combe-Chamonix is reserved for volunteers, partners and local residents. The most accessible format in the program, oriented toward enjoyment rather than performance.
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FAQ
Which UTMB race should I choose for a first ultra-trail?
The OCC (60 km, 3,500 m D+) is the most recommended intermediate format for discovering the UTMB world without aiming straight for a 100-mile race. The MCC (40 km) is even more accessible but reserved for volunteers, partners and local residents.
Which is the hardest UTMB race?
The PTL (Petite Trotte à Léon), 300 km and around 25,000 m of elevation gain, run in teams of 2 or 3, outside the UTMB World Series rankings. Among the individually ranked races, the TDS (145 km, 9,500 m D+) is considered the most technical and demanding.
What is the difference between the CCC and the OCC?
The CCC (Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix, 101 km, 6,050 m D+) is a long, demanding format. The OCC (Orsières-Champex-Chamonix, 60 km, 3,500 m D+) shares part of the same route but over roughly half the distance — a good compromise for a first big format.
Do I need the same points to enter the UTMB and the CCC?
No. The UTMB Index required depends on the targeted category: 100K/100M category for the UTMB and the TDS, 50K/100K/100M for the CCC, and from 20K for the OCC. The longer the race, the higher the required index.