UTMB® aid stations are one of the most important aspects of the race: they should help you stick to the nutrition strategy you've planned for the event. Here's exactly what you'll find there and how to manage your nutrition throughout the course.
How many aid stations on the UTMB®?
The number of aid stations varies depending on the race you're entered in. They are listed in the runner's guide with their exact kilometre position, type (liquid, full or hot meal) and any associated assistance zones. Find the full detailed map in our article UTMB® Aid Stations. Only runners wearing a visible race bib, their timing chip on their pack and their identification wristband are allowed access.
Liquid, full or hot meal aid station: what's the difference?
There are liquid aid stations (drinks only), full aid stations (drinks and solid food) and, at just 3 points for the UTMB® and CCC® (Chapieux, Courmayeur) and 1 for the TDS® (Cormet de Roselend), aid stations with hot meals. To find out what type of aid station awaits you at each point on the course, check our dedicated article on aid stations.
What you'll find at the aid stations
Drink stations offer:
- still water
- sparkling water
- cola drinks
- coffee
- tea
- energy drinks
- vermicelli soup
- vegetable soup
- rice
Only still water and energy drink can be used to refill your bottles and hydration bladders: all other products must be consumed on-site. Full aid stations add to this:
- energy bars
- cereal bars
- sweet cakes
- chocolate
- dried apricots
- dried figs
- bananas
- oranges
- watermelon
- lemon
- savoury biscuits
- local cheese
- saucisson and local cured meats
- bread
Managing your nutrition during the race
It can be tempting to skip aid stations to keep up your pace, but that's rarely a good call: on distances like this, any energy deficit always catches up with you later. It's better to take proper breaks, even short ones, at every aid station — to drink, eat and catch your breath. These stops complement the gels and energy bars you carry in your race pack, and help vary your intake to avoid flavour fatigue over such a long event. To build your complete nutrition strategy (quantities, timing, carb/protein distribution), the UTMB® provides an official nutrition guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can you bring your own food to the aid stations?
Yes, nothing stops you from supplementing the official provisions with your own food carried in your pack (gels, bars, your usual snacks). It's actually recommended, so you're not entirely dependent on what's available on-site.
What to do if you have specific dietary requirements?
Official aid stations are not suitable for specific dietary requirements (allergies, intolerances, strict vegan diets). If you have dietary restrictions, plan to carry a significant portion of your own food so you're not entirely reliant on race provisions. To find out more:
