Race certified by Finishers: event approved by the organizer

Runthrough Ascona-Locarno 2025

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The event in a few words

The RunThrough organization, known for hosting a multitude of incredible races, is once again stepping up with the Ascona-Locarno. This new trail event takes place in the heart of the Alps, among mountains and vibrant greenery ๐Ÿ’š. The event is scheduled for late October, so participants should plan to pack some warm clothes, as this time of year can be unpredictable! ๐Ÿฅถ Before perfecting your running gear, you need to choose your distance from three options: 42 km, 24 km, and for the more adventurous, a vertical kilometer ๐Ÿคช. There's something for everyone ๐Ÿ˜‰, with these three distances, the Swiss are usually generous with chocolate, but we'll take the races too! ๐Ÿซ

Want to know more about the courses? Here we go... ๐Ÿค Let's start with the longest and most challenging one, the 42 km race with its 2,486 m elevation gain ๐Ÿ‘‘. It's a tough challenge, requiring good training to reach the finish line ๐Ÿ’ช. The nature itself will provide a boost, as the race landscapes are extraordinary ๐Ÿคฉ. You'll be among the mountains ๐ŸŒ„, at the summit of Pizzo Leone, named after an explorer! ๐Ÿ•ต๏ธโ€โ™€๏ธ From this mountain peak, at precisely 1,600 meters, you'll witness the beautiful hues of the Lago Maggiore ๐Ÿž๏ธ. Keep your eyes open, and you might even spot the Monte Rosa ๐Ÿฉท, the fourth highest peak in the Alps and the highest in Switzerland. Such a breathtaking panorama is enticing, isn't it? ๐Ÿ˜ Next, after the giant 42 km, there's a smaller sibling, a 24 km race with 1,271 m elevation gain. Your legs will surely feel the burn ๐Ÿฆต, but your eyes will feast on the stunning views. It's truly a blessing in disguise! Lastly, the cherry on top: the vertical kilometer ๐Ÿ’. For this race, the most motivated will tackle the stairs of the Mont-Sacrรฉ, leading to the Madonna Del Sasso church! ๐Ÿชœ At the church level โ›ช, you'll have an unparalleled view of the mountains and the lake ๐Ÿ‘€. You'll be truly in the heart of Mother Nature's humble abode, where only the sound of birds might interrupt your peace ๐Ÿง˜. Even the kids will have their moment to shine, with a special 2 km race just for them to impress their friends ๐Ÿ˜Œ.

After all the elevation gain and sweat, it's time to relax ๐Ÿ’†. The Ascona-Locarno region is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature's rejuvenating powers ๐ŸŒฟ. You've seen it from all vantage points (pun intended), but it's worth getting closer: the Lago Maggiore โ˜๏ธ. It offers a breath of fresh air! ๐ŸงŠ Afterward, if you're in the mood, you can wander through the narrow streets of Ascona's historic center! ๐ŸŽจ And finally, a top relaxation suggestion: the Locarno Baths โ›ฒ. There, you can indulge in treatments and massages, all while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and the lake ๐Ÿฅฐ.

With all this lined up, what are you waiting for to join the start line? ๐Ÿ”ฅ

4 reasons to join this race

A Challenge for All Levels ๐Ÿ’ช
Runthrough Ascona-Locarno surely offers a distance for you! ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Whether it's 42 km with 2,486 m of elevation gain for the tough ones ๐Ÿฆพ, 24 km with 1,271 m of elevation for the ambitious ๐Ÿ”ฅ, an extreme Stair Race for climbing enthusiasts โ›ฐ๏ธ, or even a 2 km kids' race to inspire the next generation!
Breathtaking Scenery ๐Ÿคฏ
Running is great, but running in the heart of the Swiss Alps, with views of Lake Maggiore, Monte Rosa, and lush valleys, is even better! ๐Ÿ˜ Picture-perfect postcard scenes await you, where every ascent rewards you with stunning panoramas ๐Ÿคฉ. We guarantee the view is worth the effort ๐Ÿ™Œ.
Try a Stair Race ๐Ÿ”ฅ
Why attempt a Stair Race? Because it's a wildly exciting challenge ๐Ÿคช! This is a test where your thighs will scream for mercy from the first steps, but your determination will drive you to reach the top ๐Ÿ’ช. And once you get to the Madonna del Sasso โ›ช, you'll realize the effort was truly worthwhile.
Explore the Region ๐ŸŒ„
After the race, it's time for relaxation and exploration! ๐Ÿšฃโ€โ™‚๏ธ Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Maggiore, visit the Madonna del Sasso, wander through the charming streets of Ascona and Locarno, or simply unwind on a terrace with a good Ticino wine ๐Ÿท. After such an effort, you'll deserve the break! ๐Ÿ˜

A distance for every taste

Trail 42โ€‰km

TrailThe most popular
  • Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 2486mD+
  • 1 loopx42โ€‰km

A few more words

If you're looking for a leisurely stroll, this definitely isn't the place for you ๐Ÿ˜…. This marathon is 42 km of pure challenge, with 2,486 m of elevation gain to constantly remind you that the Swiss Alps don't mess around! ๐Ÿ’จ But while your legs will suffer, your eyes will be in for a treat ๐Ÿคฉ. Between dizzying ridges and breathtaking views, every kilometer brings you closer to an incredible view of Lago Maggiore ๐ŸŒŠ. And when you reach the summit of Pizzo Leone (1,600 m), don't forget to look up: if the skies are clear, Monte Rosa and its 4,634 meters will greet you from afar ๐Ÿ‘€๐Ÿ”๏ธ. But donโ€™t linger too long, because the descent awaits, and it's likely to be just as tough as the climbโ€ฆ So, are you ready to take on the beast? ๐Ÿ”ฅ

GPX

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Race bags must be collected on the day of the event before the start: Friday, October 31, 2025, for the Stair Race and Saturday, November 1, 2025, for the other races, at Piazza Grande in Locarno.

The starting point is at this address: Largo Franco Zorzi, 6600, Locarno, Switzerland.

  • 42 km: 9 AM on Saturday, November 1, 2025

  • 24 km: 10 AM on Saturday, November 1, 2025

  • Vertical Stair Race 3 km: 6 PM on Friday, October 31, 2025

  • Kids Race: 2 PM on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Piazza Grande

  • 42 km and 24 km: Minimum age 18

  • Vertical Stair Race 3 km: Minimum age 12

  • Kids Race: Minimum age 4

Yes, refreshment stations will be set up every 10 to 15 km.

Yes, there are time limits.

  • 42 km: 11 hours

  • 24 km: 7 hours

  • Vertical Stair Race 3 km: 2 hours

Registration includes:

  • Chip-timed results

  • Unique wooden medals

  • Free official event photos

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