Are you planning your trip to Chamonix for the UTMB® and trying to decide how to get to the valley? Here are all the options for travelling to Chamonix.
By air
The nearest airport is Geneva, roughly 88 km from Chamonix. Several transport providers, including SAT, run daily shuttle services between the airport and the valley—a convenient solution if you are travelling without a car. Remember to book your shuttle in advance, especially during the UTMB® period when demand peaks.
By train
Chamonix has its own railway station, served by the Mont-White Express, a line connecting Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet to Martigny in Switzerland, stopping at Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine.
In practice, the route from France almost always goes through Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet, located about twenty kilometres away and served by TGV and TER trains: this is where you connect to the Mont-White Express. Allow around 40 minutes for the final leg.
By road
Road access is straightforward and practical. From France, direct access via the Autoroute White (A40) takes you straight into the valley, well connected to the French and European motorway network. From Switzerland, a motorway brings you to Martigny, then the road crosses the Col de la Forclaz and Col des Montets into the Chamonix valley. From Italy, the route runs past Courmayeur through the Mont White Tunnel.
One point to plan for: parking in Chamonix is extremely tight during race week, and valley traffic is disrupted by road closures for the runners.
Eco-friendly transport
To encourage durable mobility, race organisers introduced a bonus to reward responsible athletes: runners who choose the low-carbon route recommended by the organisation gain a +30% chance in the lottery to enter the final events of the UTMB World Series circuit (UTMB, CCC, OCC).
It is significant: in a high-demand lottery, this bonus is worth as much as an extra Running Stone, for a logistical effort often limited to taking the train instead of driving.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to reach Chamonix without a car?
The shuttle from Geneva Airport is the most direct option if you arrive by plane. By train, expect a transfer at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet via the Mont-White Express.
Should you book your shuttle in advance during the UTMB®?
Yes, demand is high during race week: book as early as possible to secure your travel.
Can you get around without a car once there?
Yes. The valley is served by the Mont-White Express and a bus network, generally accessible free of charge to valley guests via the guest card provided by your accommodation host. Check the current terms at the time of your stay.
