EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP Part 3B | Running Mont Blanc Vertical KM Route | Venice | Run4Adventure - Run4Adventure

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP Part 3B | Running Mont Blanc Vertical KM Route | Venice from Run4Adventure. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

The team treats the first thing they do in Chamonix as a tradition: run the Mont Blanc vertical kilometer (1 km distance, ~1,000 m elevation gain).
The route starts on a short stretch of tarmac, then follows a steep trail with switch‑backs that follow the cable‑car line.
They start with poles for the early steep sections, then switch to hands‑on‑thighs for the technical rock‑y sections, and finish with a run‑down of the same route (more runnable than the ascent).
Practical safety tips: test metal holds and ladders before putting weight on them, give each wire a tug before you step, watch for loose rock, and stay aware of the thin air at >2,000 m.
Heart‑rate data: started around 185 bpm, settled to 160 bpm – a good reference for a hard vertical effort.

Workout Example

Mont Blanc Vertical Kilometer (1 km, ~1,000 m gain)

Warm‑up – 10‑15 min easy jog on flat ground (2‑3 km) at an easy pace.
Start on the tarmac, use trekking poles for the first 200 m to get a rhythm.
Switch to hands‑on‑thighs for the steep, technical sections (rocky switch‑backs, metal ladders).
Goal: complete the 1 km vertical climb in 30‑40 minutes (or as fast as your fitness allows).
Cool‑down – 5‑10 min easy jog or walk back down, focusing on steady breathing.

Tips to Apply Right Now

Use poles on the very steep first 200 m, then switch to hands‑on‑thighs for better control on rock.
Before stepping on metal ladders, give each a firm tug to ensure they’re secure.
Keep your heart rate in the 150‑180 bpm range; start fast, then settle to a sustainable effort.
Hydrate before and after the climb; the altitude (≈2,100 m) can make you feel more fatigued.

Closing Note

Give the Mont Blanc vertical kilometer a try on your next hill‑training day, adjust the paces to suit your own fitness in the Pacing app, and enjoy the incredible views while you push your limits. Happy running!