It’s spring in Engelberg, and our gear rooms are shifting along with the seasons. We’re trading ski boots for trail shoes and skis for bikes. There is a buzz in the air with anticipation for all of the summer adventuring to come. For some inspiration, we’re giving you a rundown of the local running races here in Engelberg this summer. You’re in luck, because it’s not too late to start training!
Trail running is a beautiful sport for competition; not only because of its challenging nature, but also because of the incredible places it takes you, no matter your fitness level. It’s such a nice way to bring mountain people together for an unforgettable experience you’ll feel proud of. If either of these races intrigue you, Ski Lodge is the perfect place to fuel up and bask in the glory of having completed the challenge. We’re excited to cheer you on!
Berglauf Engelberg – August 6, 2023
The Engelberg Berglauf (meaning “mountain run” in German) is not for the faint of heart. Starting off in town at 1010 meters above sea level (a short walk from Ski Lodge), you’ll climb through the beautiful lower Brunni forests to the top of the Ristis gondola, before traversing up and across to Rugghubelhütte at 2296 meters above sea level. Yep, that’s 1286 m of elevation gain over 9 km. PHEW!
If you’re not quite ready for the main route, there’s a shorter option starting at Ristis, 1606 m above sea level, and also finishing at Rugghubelhütte, 2296 m above sea level. For this version you’ll climb 690 m over 5.5 km.
Need some extra motivation? The Engelberg-Rugghubelhütte main route is part of the Central Switzerland Mountain Run Challenge, and if you compete in 5 or more official races you’ll get a sweet prize! Sign up now!
HARD FACTS
Main Line
Start: Engelberg 1010 m above sea level
Finish: Rugghubelhütte 2296 m above sea level
Altitude gain: 1286 m
Course length: 9000 m
Short Distance
Start: Ristis 1606 m above sea level
Finish: Rugghubelhütte 2296 m above sea level
Altitude gain: 690 m
Course length: 5500 m
Entry Fees
to 30 July 2023: CHF 30 for all categories | €30
from 31 July to 4 August 2023: CHF 35 for all categories | €35
5 and 6 August 2023: CHF 40 for all categories | €40
Prizes
All participants will receive a commemorative prize. A special prize will be given to the first 3 of each category. The fastest runners receive a winner prize.
Cirque Series Engelberg – September 23, 2023
We’re so thrilled that the Cirque Series is stopping in Engelberg once again this year! Known for crazy climbs and steep descents, the series visits a handful of world-class ski areas across the world. The Engelberg race starts and ends at the Titlis valley station, just down the street from Ski Lodge. After pushing yourself up through the forest to the Gerschnialp plateau, your legs will already be burning as the Trübsee climb comes into view. You’ll cruise by some local residents (some very cute cows) before starting the steep ascent to Lake Trübsee. Once you reach the lake, you head up to summit Bitzistock before running down past Untertrübsee and back to the valley floor.
We know you’re excited to tackle this challenge, and as the official accommodation partner for the race we’re offering a discount for your stay! Just use the code “Cirque Series” when booking your room.
HARD FACTS
Start: Engelberg 995 m above sea level
Highest point: Bitzistock 1890 m above sea level
Finish: Engelberg 995 m above sea level
Elevation Gain: 930 m
Course Length: 15 km
Entry Fee: 69 CHF
Prizes: All runners will receive a goodie bag with swag from the sponsors before the race. Runners can also enter a post-run sweepstakes for some exciting prizes. The “Pro” category will receive cash prizes, and the “Sports” and Expert” category winners will receive gear!
Suffice to say, we’re FIRED UP for this trail running season. Summer is the perfect time to run in Engelberg, with fresh mountain air, cowbells ringing, wildflowers blooming, and endless trails to explore. Send us a message, as we’d love to help you plan your running trip here: info@skilodgeengelberg.com .
See you on the trails! // Your Friends At Ski Lodge Engelberg
