Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions page of Ultra Paine®. Here you may find answers to most of your questions. Should you have any other questions, feel free to contact us at info@ultrapaine.com.
General Information
1. What is Trail Running?Click to show
According to the ITRA (International Trail Running Association), trail running is defined as running through a natural environment (mountains, deserts, forests, plains, etc.) with a minimum amount of paved or asphalted roads, which must not exceed 20% of the total course. The type of terrain may vary (dirt path, forest footpaths, trails, etc.), and the route must be properly marked. Within this general context provided by ITRA, Ultra Trail Torres del Paine Running is an intensive way to connect with nature; it is a life experience in Patagonia.
2. Why is it called UTTP or ULTRA PAINE®?
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The denomination “ULTRA PAINE®” or “UTTP” for short, is the result of the combination between two concepts: Ultra, a term utilized often in Trail Running, and is associated directly with distances exceeding 42K. The other term, which defines the denomination of the event, is “Torres del Paine,” in reference to the Torres del Paine National Park, whose mountainous geography is part of the best views included in ULTRA PAINE®‘s race routes. In the 2014 and 2015 editions, ULTRA PAINE®‘s race routes penetrated the Park’s trails; however, in 2025, similar to the 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024 editions, the trails for the race surround the Park, but do not actually enter it.
3. Where will ULTRA PAINE® take place?Click to show
The event will take place in the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region, Province of Última Esperanza (Last Hope), Commune Torres del Paine. The race routes are located in the surroundings of Torres del Paine National Park. The region’s capital is Punta Arenas, and the closest city to the event’s race zone is Puerto Natales.
4. What is the race format for ULTRA PAINE®?Click to show
The race format is going to be a non-stop race with semi-autonomy. This means that each runner must be independent between aid stations. Thus, in order to endure any possible weather or physical conditions that may arise, each runner must carry mandatory equipment at all times (see equipment list in Race Rules). Similarly, the runner must carry a sufficient amount of nutrition and hydration to last each leg of the race. ULTRA PAINE® adheres to the values of sportsmanship, loyalty, solidarity, and environmental respect.
5. What types of terrain will be crossed in ULTRA PAINE®?Click to show
ULTRA PAINE®‘s race route will pass through a wide variety of terrain and landscapes. Thus, all of the following will be passed along the course: ranch farms, forests, grasslands, mountains, bordering lakes, and other natural environments. For the course’s terrain, runners will move on animal tracks, trails, back-roads for vehicles, etc.
6. Will it be necessary to pay an entry fee to Torres del Paine National Park?Click to show
For this edition, all of the race routes are located outside of the park’s limits, so it will not be necessary to enter the park; however, should your hotel/hostel accommodation be located inside of the park or should you wish to visit it, you will have to pay the corresponding entry fee in order to enter the park at aspticket.cl.
7. How will the race route be marked?Click to show
The race route will be clearly indicated, which will include various markings depending on the race zone, but will primarily include stakes and tape. Please reference the Runner’s Guide for more details.
8. What race distances are included in this edition of ULTRA PAINE®?Click to show
The event will offer the following race distances:
9. Will the 2025 edition of Ultra Paine® award ITRA points and/or be considered in my UTMB® Index?Click to show
Yes, the 2025 edition of Ultra Paine® awards the following ITRA points:
Also, these distances are added to your UTMB® Performance Index (UTMB® Index), according to the following distance categories:
The Performance Index is used in a similar way as the ‘qualifying points’ to show a runner’s experience at different distances and can be used to enter the UTMB® World Series Events and combined with Running Stones to enter the UTMB® Finals.
10. What categories will be included in Ultra Paine®? How will they be awarded?Click to show
The runners from each race distance will be classified according to the following table of categories, which is based on the runner’s age as of 27 September 2025:
11. What are the starting points, time limits, altitudes, and aid stations for each race distance?Click to show
12. Will there be intermediate cut-off points?Click to show
Yes, for security and logistical reasons, cut-off times will be set at an intermediate point for the 50K distance at PAS Mirador Grey. Please reference the Runner’s Guide for more details.
13. Can my team members, friends, or family accompany me along the race?Click to show
It is prohibited for runners to be accompanied throughout the race; however, there will be aid stations where the assistance from friends, family, or team members is permitted. Some of these stations are accessible by vehicle. Please reference the Runner’s Guide for more details.
14. Can I leave a bag at the starting line?Click to show
Yes, all runners can leave a drop bag at their respective starting lines, which will be transported by the organization to the finish line.
15. What will be the climate during the days of the event?Click to show
The climate in Patagonia is characterized by highly variable and unpredictable weather conditions in all four seasons; however, in the month of September, which is the date for the event, spring will already have begun! Gradually, the green begins to return after a hard winter. Therefore, you can expect average temperatures between 2 and 10°C, with absolutes maximums exceeding 15°C. Even though it will not be during a season of strong and persistent winds, and beyond statistics, there is also the possibility that Patagonia will surprise us with some form of a storm to show us her power! Therefore, you must come prepared for everything, and the use of adequate clothing will be fundamental in order to enjoy your experience in these latitudes.
In reference to weather conditions, the mandatory equipment seeks to improve the race experience, while also serving as an important part of your safety and comfort during the event. Selecting and evaluating each item is the runner’s responsibility.
16. How can I reach the race area?Click to show
When entering Chile from outside the country, one must first arrive in Santiago, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, code SCL. From this airport, there are frequent flights to Punta Arenas (PUQ), the capital of the Magellan and Chilean Antarctica Region and the closest city to Puerto Natales and ULTRA PAINE®‘s race zone. From Punta Arenas, there are regular bus services to Puerto Natales (250km). From Puerto Natales there will be special bus services to travel to the race’s starting points.
17. How can I go from Puerto Natales to the starting points?Click to show
The starting lines are approximately 70-80 km from Puerto Natales. In order to access these points, you can use your own means of transportation (For all the distances that take places on Saturday, whose starting line and finish line are located at different locations, please be aware that the driver CANNOT also be a runner on Saturday, meaning that the driver must vacate the starting location after the race has begun and continue to the finish line, where they may park and wait there for your arrival. Please reference the Runner’s Guide for more details.
Runner’s Kit
1. Where can I go to retrieve my runner’s kit?Click to show
The Runner’s Kit can be picked up based on the following schedule:
2. What’s included in the Runner’s Kit?Click to show
Registration
1. What are the dates of the registration period?Click to show
Registration for the 2025 edition will open on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, and will close on Thursday, 24 August 2025! For more information please visit our registration page.
2. What is the registration cost and what is included?Click to show
For more information about the prices and registration process go directly to the Registration Section.
3. How can I register?Click to show
Registration can be made by accessing the “Chilean ($ CLP) or Foreign ($ USD)” buttons located in the registration section of our website. For national runners, it can be completed in Chilean pesos through the Welcu system by paying with credit card, debit card or via a bank transfer. For everyone residing outside of Chile, registration can be completed through WeTravel by paying in USD by credit card or other options depending on the options avialable for your specific country.
4. What are the requirements for entering the race?Click to show
In addition to being at least 18 years old, he or she must be fully aware of all the Race’s dimensions and risks, and specifically including the test it takes to complete, and be fully prepared, for all of them. Having the minimal experience and semi-autonomy ability in mountains that allows for him or her to successfully and independently confront the challenges presented in ULTRA PAINE®. (Please reference Article 4 of the Race’s General Rules for more details).
5. How do I know if I have effectively registered to be a runner in ULTRA PAINE®?Click to show
The moment you finish registration, you will automatically receive a ticket from Welcu confirming that your registration is complete.
6. Can I change any data in my registration form after my participation has been confirmed?Click to show
Any changes on your registration may be made until 24 August, 2025. These changes may be made by emailing
info@ultrapaine.com.
7. Once registered, can I change my distance? Until when can I change it?Click to show
Yes, you are permitted to change your race distance, but only until 24 August, 2025. Please email
info@ultrapaine.com to change your distance.
8. Once registered, am I going to receive updates regarding ULTRA PAINE® in my e-mail?Click to show
We try to only send relevant information, which may include reminders, important changes, logistical matters, or even promotions from local services that may be attractive and/or beneficial to runners; however, we will not release or share your email address with any third parties.
Returns
1. If I injure myself or am unable to participate in the event for any reason, will I receive a partial refund?Click to show
It depends on the date of when this notice is given to the Organization. For more information, you may check our Rules and Regulations.
2. If for one reason or another I cannot compete in ULTRA PAINE®, can someone else take my place?Click to show
Yes, you can, just let us know sending an email to info@ultrapaine.com and we will explain you the corresponding process.
3. If I chose to save my registration, will I be able to use to run in one of the Organization’s other events?Click to show
Yes, it is permitted, provided that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements for that event. For more details, please refer to Rules and Regulations.