Ultra Trail Lago d'Orta - UTLO

The trail of Italy's most mysterious lake

The Ultra Trail Lago d'Orta, widely known as UTLO, is the benchmark event for mountain running enthusiasts in the Cusio and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola area. Its home is Omegna, a hardworking industrial town nestled on the northern tip of Lake Orta in Piedmont. It is here, along the Lungolago Gramsci, that the UTLO Village is set up, serving as the beating heart of the event for race starts, finishes, bib collection, and the expo area.

Lake Orta is often described as "Italy's most mysterious and romantic lake." More intimate and quieter than the nearby Lake Maggiore, it is framed by forests, charming villages, and the unmistakable silhouettes of Mottarone and the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Running around this basin means traversing a landscape that alternates between lakeside shores, historic mule tracks, and panoramic ridges.

Four distances for every level

The UTLO format is designed to welcome everyone, from seasoned ultra-trailers to runners tackling trails for the first time:

• 58 km (57.76 km, +3,653 m, ITRA certified): the flagship race, a demanding loop that circles the entire lake, passing through Alpe Camasca, Alpe Sacchi, Boleto, and Grassana.
• 34 km (approx. +1,720 m): the mid-distance trail, a perfect synthesis of scenery and technical difficulty.
• 21 km (approx. +1,100 m): the half-distance, ideal for those seeking an intense yet manageable challenge.
• 12 km (approx. +360 m): the most accessible race, perfect for beginners and those wanting to soak up the race atmosphere.

Completing the program is the UtlinoRun, a version dedicated to the youngest runners, bringing the trail spirit to children and turning UTLO into a true community festival open to families.

An event that has grown over time

Born as a local competition and having become an internationally renowned event over the years, UTLO has built a solid reputation on the trail circuit. The 58 km race is ITRA 3 certified and serves as a qualifying race for the UTMB, attracting athletes from numerous nations. The 2026 edition, supported by title sponsor Minerva Energia, marks the event's return after the forced hiatus in 2025.

Omegna and the Cusio in autumn

Choosing October for UTLO is no coincidence: it is the time when the forests around the lake ignite with the colors of the foliage, offering runners (and spectators) unforgettable views. The event is also an opportunity to discover Omegna and the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola territory, with its Piedmontese gastronomic specialties, waterfront villages, and the area's artisan traditions. The event is supported by the Alpine Rescue (CNSAS), the Civil Protection, and the Italian Red Cross, ensuring safety along the routes.