Did you know that you can even run a marathon on a volcano? Nothing strange, you might say; it’s not the first time you’ve run in a mountain, and a volcano is a mountain – after all. But the one to be run on Mount Etna (scheduled for June 13th) isn’t your typical marathon: it’s a vertical marathon! You need good lungs and legs to manage this race, and only a few have succeeded in winning the prestigious prize.
The marathon that comes from afar
The “vertical marathon” comes to Sicily from afar. Specifically, from Tarvisio (Udine) in northern Italy, where for a long time people had challenged the mountain “bare-legged” with a grueling run through the snow toward the summit of the local Alps. In 2004, it was decided to plan a race to push all limits and, promoted by Guinness World Records, the first Vertical Marathon on Etna was launched.
Initially attempted by just three courageous runners, others have joined over time. And today, 22 years later, it has become the world’s largest “mountain race”. The significant elevation gain, from 0 to 3,000 meters, intrigues many extreme thrill-seekers. And, of course, many curious onlookers, too.
Running a marathon in the mountains
Running a marathon in the mountains is one of the most fascinating and demanding challenges an athlete can face. Unlike a traditional road marathon, the mountain course requires not only physical endurance, but also adaptability, concentration, and a deep connection with the natural environment. Every climb tests leg strength and mental determination, while every descent requires control, balance, and technique.
One of the most exciting aspects of a mountain marathon is the direct contact with nature. Runners pass through forests, alpine meadows, scenic ridges, and spectacular valleys. During the race, breathtaking, ever-changing landscapes can be observed, providing added motivation in moments of fatigue. Far from the traffic and noise of cities, athletes can enjoy an authentic experience, immersed in the silence and beauty of the mountain environment.
How to Prepare
Preparation for a mountain marathon is very different from that required for a race on flat terrain. Training sessions should include routes with significant elevation changes, exercises to improve muscle strength, and sessions dedicated to stability and coordination. The body must learn to manage constant changes in pace and gradient, while the cardiovascular system must be able to sustain prolonged efforts even at altitude. Furthermore, it is important to train on trails similar to those encountered during the race to become familiar with uneven terrain, rocks, roots, and technical sections.
Mentally, tackling a marathon in the mountains means learning to manage fatigue and uncertainty. The steepest sections can seem endless, and the kilometers often pass more slowly than in a road race. In these moments, personal motivation becomes essential. Many athletes find strength in their goals, their passion for running, and the satisfaction of pushing their limits.
Unique Emotions
Mountains certainly also present numerous challenges. Weather conditions can change rapidly, going from sun to rain or strong wind in a matter of minutes. For this reason, it’s essential to be properly equipped with trail running shoes, technical clothing, and safety gear. Good nutrition and hydration planning is equally important, as the effort required by the elevation gain increases energy expenditure compared to a traditional marathon.
Crossing the finish line of a mountain marathon is a unique experience. It’s not just about completing a distance of over forty-two kilometers, but about having tackled a complex and unpredictable course, where every meter gained is the result of commitment, preparation, and courage. The feeling of reaching the finish line, in a special environment like that of an active volcano—in this case, Mount Etna—is truly magical! If you’re properly prepared… give it a try!
How and where will it take place?
On June 13th, 2026, competitors will start from level 0, on the Marina di Cottone beach, and run through the municipalities of Fiumefreddo di Sicilia, Piedimonte Etneo, Linguaglossa. They will then leave the town and face wood paths, lava rocks and black ash deserts, following the winding Mareneve Regional Road to Piano Provenzana. From there, the toughest section begins, which will become increasingly challenging until reaching 3,000 meters, where the finish line is.
There are two races planned: one for men and one for women, as well as an “off-road” route starting at an altitude of 1,800 meters and reaching the Volcanological Observatory. Then, runners will descend along the sandy ravines, braving the slopes and rumblings of the volcano.
Check out the routes, athletes, and numbers for this incredible marathon by visiting this website: https://etnatrail.it/ .
Etna on foot
Watching these extreme athletes compete on Etna’s brutal slopes will make everyone feel like small dwarves in the presence of the gods! But know that our volcano can be experienced on foot, even without exceeding human limits. With a good guide, a nice trekking – even at high altitudes – is within everyone’s reach. And even running down the sandy ravines is possible, provided you don’t suffer from any particular health problems and have some mountain training. (PHOTOS BY G. MUSUMECI AND A.SUAREZ PEXELS)