Südtirol Drei Zinnen Alpine Run

A legendary race in the Sesto Dolomites

The Südtirol Drei Zinnen Alpine Run is one of the most evocative mountain running competitions in the Alps. Every September, the village of Sesto/Sexten, in the Alta Pusteria region of South Tyrol, becomes the starting point for a sporting challenge that attracts a thousand runners from over twenty countries. Established in 1998, the race has cemented its reputation over the years as a true highlight of the international skyrunning season.

The course: from the valley floor to the Tre Cime

The track covers 17.9 kilometers with a total elevation gain of 1,354 meters. Starting from the village center at Haus Sexten, the race flows through the scenic Val Fiscalina before intensifying with climbs toward the Comici and Pian di Cengia Refuges. After crossing the Forcella Pian di Cengia, athletes reach the finish line at the Locatelli Refuge (Dreizinnenhütte), at 2,405 meters, offering one of the most famous panoramas in the Dolomites: the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

An event that respects the mountains

To protect the alpine environment, the organization maintains a maximum limit of 1,000 participants. The race is recognized by FIDAL (Italian Athletics Federation), and its roll of honor includes champions like Jonathan Wyatt and multiple-time women's winner Sara Bottarelli.

More than just the main race

The Alpine Run weekend is animated by a rich supporting program. In the days leading up to the race, a three-day Läufer-Expo dedicated to the world of running takes place; after the finish, runners are treated to the traditional Pasta Party and a closing celebration. The day after the main event is reserved for the Mini Drei Zinnen Alpine Run, dedicated to youth categories under 18, with age-appropriate courses.

Sesto and the Alta Pusteria

The municipality of Sesto is one of the most beloved destinations in the Sesto Dolomites, nestled in an alpine valley of rare beauty just a stone's throw from the Austrian border. The event is organized by the ALV Sextner Dolomiten association and represents a unique opportunity each year to experience outdoor sports in an extraordinary natural setting in South Tyrol.