Runthrough Ascona-Locarno 2026

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 💚. The event is scheduled for late October, so participants should plan to pack some warm clothes, as this time of year can be unpredictable! 🥶 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 🤪. There's something for everyone 😉, with these three distances, the Swiss are usually generous with chocolate, but we'll take the races too! 🍫

Want to know more about the courses? Here we go... 🤐 Let's start with the longest and most challenging one, the 42 km race with its 2,486 m elevation gain 👑. It's a tough challenge, requiring good training to reach the finish line 💪. The nature itself will provide a boost, as the race landscapes are extraordinary 🤩. You'll be among the mountains 🌄, at the summit of Pizzo Leone, named after an explorer! 🕵️‍♀️ From this mountain peak, at precisely 1,600 meters, you'll witness the beautiful hues of the Lago Maggiore 🏞️. Keep your eyes open, and you might even spot the Monte Rosa 🩷, the fourth highest peak in the Alps and the highest in Switzerland. Such a breathtaking panorama is enticing, isn't it? 😍 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 🦵, but your eyes will feast on the stunning views. It's truly a blessing in disguise! Lastly, the cherry on top: the vertical kilometer 🍒. For this race, the most motivated will tackle the stairs of the Mont-Sacré, leading to the Madonna Del Sasso church! 🪜 At the church level ⛪, you'll have an unparalleled view of the mountains and the lake 👀. You'll be truly in the heart of Mother Nature's humble abode, where only the sound of birds might interrupt your peace 🧘. Even the kids will have their moment to shine, with a special 2 km race just for them to impress their friends 😌.

After all the elevation gain and sweat, it's time to relax 💆. The Ascona-Locarno region is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature's rejuvenating powers 🌿. You've seen it from all vantage points (pun intended), but it's worth getting closer: the Lago Maggiore ☝️. It offers a breath of fresh air! 🧊 Afterward, if you're in the mood, you can wander through the narrow streets of Ascona's historic center! 🎨 And finally, a top relaxation suggestion: the Locarno Baths ⛲. There, you can indulge in treatments and massages, all while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and the lake 🥰.

With all this lined up, what are you waiting for to join the start line? 🔥