5th LOWA Ultratrail
Fränkische Schweiz
The spring classic
Rocky cliffs, caves, and thousands of single track trails found at LOWA Ultratrail Fränkische Schweiz (UTFS)
Long established as the opening race of the national trail running season, the LOWA Ultratrail Fränkische Schweiz is entering its fifth round. Be there on April 25, 2026 when the highly profiled route through the Franconian low mountain range starts again. On the finest single trails, you will run along climbing rocks, past castles and through a number of caves. Trail running like you’ve never experienced before. Trail running like you’ve never experienced before.
UTFS Route
Trail running races through the highlands of Franconia
Speedtrail
33km / 1,380m elevation gain
+++ SOLD OUT +++ The Speedtrail starts and ends at Ebermannstadt market square, is ideal for trail beginners, and invites participants to achieve very fast times. This little brother to the Ultra Trail should not be underestimated, though. There are still 1,380 meters of elevation gain and some very technical parts to overcome. After a flowing first half, the biggest tests are still ahead of you after the valley crossing.
Ultratrail
66km / 2760hm
+++ SOLD OUT +++ Are your ready for a big challenge in spring? When many regions are still impassable due to winter conditions, we send you with the first rays of spring through the beauty of Fränkische Schweiz. There are castles, caves, and seemingly endless ups and downs. We ask you to lay it all out there. It might even take your breath away. Get ready for the UTFS anniversary race.
Kidstrail
1.4km Kidsrun | 4.5km Youthtrail
Under the motto “Fun with exercise and closeness to nature”, a children’s run and youth trail will take place for the second time in April. With the Kidsrun, the UTFS offers a run along the Wiesent river through the old town for 6-12 year olds. Adolescent trail runners can put their talent to the test in Germany’s first trail run for teenagers and young people.
Impressions and Comments
Impressions from four years of the LOWA Ultratrail Franconian Switzerland
"We are certain this race will find a place among the top most authentic and beloved highland race classics, on par with Lamer Winkl, etc."
"It’s an event creating a cult following, where a lot of blood, sweat and tears have been invested, and which is surely to make waves in the years to come."
"UTFS has proven with its premiere that the Alps aren't the only place to find demanding and challenging ultramarathon trails through beautiful landscapes. The race organizers laid down a strong foundation in the first year. With their fingers on the pulse of the ultra race running scene, and a lot of passion for the sport, they have secured a bright future for UTFS."
Suggested reading
Nice to know about the LOWA UTFS
Description 2026
The announcement of the 5th LOWA Ultratrail Franconian Switzerland on April 25, 2026 in Ebermannstadt.
Description 2025
The Description for the 4th LOWA Ultratrail Fränkische Schweiz on April 26, 2025 in Ebermannstadt with the German Ultra Trail Championships.
Description 2024
The description for the 3rd Ultratrail Fränkische Schweiz on April 20, 2024 in Ebermannstadt with the Bavarian Championships in Ultra Trail.
About us
Who we are and our connection to the Franconian highlands
The UTFS Team
We are five Franconians (either by birth or by choice) who are bound together by an overwhelming passion for (ultra) trail running and by a love for our home trails in the Franconian highlands. Together we plan to stimulate the region by offering trail events and helping to grown a trail running community in the heart of the Franconian highlands.
From left to right: Werner Schlund, Florian Troeger, Stefan Meyer, Johannes Hendel und Matthias Barsch
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