Bernina Glaciers 50

Unique, Challenging, and Spectacular!

«Bernina Glaciers 50»

The Bernina Glaciers 50 is the signature course of the Bernina Ultraks and a true adventure for all who wish to take on an exceptional trail running challenge amidst the spectacular glacier scenery of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. Covering around 50 kilometers and with 3,000 meters of elevation gain, the route leads you deep into the breathtaking high-alpine world of the Bernina Massif.

This course has everything to make a runner’s heart race: Starting from Pontresina, the route first takes you along varied trails beside the Rhaetian Railway—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—toward Morteratsch. You’ll then delve deeper and deeper into the impressive world of the Bernina Glacier Massif. Along the way, you’ll encounter challenging sections on the scree of the glacial moraines, surrounded by spectacular high-alpine scenery.

The trail continues across the Morteratsch and Pers glaciers up to Diavolezza. Once there, you’ll reach the Diavolezza mountain station at 3,003 meters above sea level—the highest point of the route and arguably one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the entire Bernina Range. After the subsequent downhill ride through the Val de Fain, you’ll tackle an ascent up to Fuorcla Pischa. This trail takes you into a secluded alpine landscape where rock, scree, and magnificent views define the character of the route. Passing the Alp Languard, the route takes you through Pontresina—a paradise for ibex—before a final, challenging climb to the Segantini Hut awaits you, followed by the grand finale of this extraordinary trail: a breathtaking view of the entire Upper Engadine. After one last downhill section—passing the Alp Languard once more—the route heads toward the finish line in the center of Pontresina.

The Facts

50.9km | 3,000hm

• Start: Saturday, July 3, 2027, 7:30 AM
• Start/Finish: Pontresina: Bellavita parking lot
• Distance: 50.9 Kilometer
• Elevation gain: 3,000m
• Highest point: Diavolezza – 3,003m
• ITRA points: 2

Mandatory Equipment

• Spikes for the glacier crossing
• Emergency blanket
• Rain or wind jacket
• Water container (min. 0.5l)
• Mobile phone

What do you receive?

• Trackside refreshments
• Runner’s meal
• Luggage storage
• GPS tracking via smartphone
• Medal
• Shower

Course Profile

Map

Refreshments & Food Stations

BARS AND ISO ALONG THE ENTIRE ROUTE POWERED BY

Highlights

Boval Hut

At almost 2,500m, you reach the first aid station at the Boval Hut after 10km. At the SAC refuge you can enjoy the first magnificent view of the surrounding high mountain landscape around the Piz Bernina and the Piz Palü as well as the glaciers to be crossed.

The Glaciers

After about 11km you will reach the Morteratsch glacier and shortly afterwards the Pers glacier. The crossing is a real highlight of the BGM and is only possible with spikes. The entire section is secured by local mountain guides and promises an extraordinary trail running experience.

Berghaus Diavolezza

The highest peak of the BGM awaits you right above the Berghaus Diavolezza at 3,000m in the middle of the “Festival Hall of the Alps”. From here you have a wonderful view of the Piz Bernina and the Piz Palü. The Diavolezza is easy to reach for all spectators by mountain railway.

Alp Languard

At 2,325m, a gigantic Alpine backdrop awaits you, including wild ibexes. The BGM runners reach Alp Languard after 33km and fortify themselves before the last hard climb to the Segantini Hut. Alp Languard is easily accessible for all spectators by chairlift.

Segantini Hut

At the Segantini hut (2,731m) you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the incomparable Engadine lake landscape and the Bernina massif. As a runner, you pass the hut at KM 35 and can fortify yourself at the last aid station for the downhill towards Pontresina.

Impressions