Winter transforms the Lure Mountain into an exhilarating playground for endurance runners, challenging them with steep ascents and panoramic views. The Trail du Haut-Plateau (THP) Winter edition invites athletes to lace up their trail shoes and take on a variety of distances ranging from 14 km to over 102 km. The event kicks off in November at the Station de Lure, nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department. The station itself is steeped in history, having hosted skiing since 1937. Participants will climb the mountain by car before setting out on their chosen route, immersing themselves in the wild and rugged landscapes of Provence. The W100 course stretches a daunting 102 km with an elevation gain of 5,300 meters, offering runners breathtaking views over the entire region. This challenging trail earns participants 4 points toward ITRA’s Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) qualification and promises to test even the most experienced athletes. For those seeking something a bit less daunting but equally thrilling, the W70 course spans 70 km with an elevation gain of 3,700 meters. The shorter yet still demanding W45 covers 45.5 km with an ascent of 2,200 meters. Both these courses offer runners the chance to earn UTMB points and enjoy spectacular vistas. The event also features a relay option for those who prefer team efforts over solo challenges. Additionally, there’s the W30 course at 32 km with 1,509 meters of elevation gain, ideal for shorter but intense trail running experiences. The W15 offers a more manageable yet still rewarding distance of 14 km. For young runners aged between 10 and 15 years old, there’s the Junior category designed to introduce them to the exhilaration of mountain trails over distances ranging from 1,398 meters up to 3,900 meters in elevation gain. This inclusive approach ensures that participants of all ages can enjoy the unique beauty and challenges offered by Lure Mountain. The race courses wind through varied terrain, including technical sections along the Lure ridge where runners must navigate slippery flat stones while taking in stunning views from heights up to 1,800 meters above sea level. Each course culminates with a final challenging climb before crossing the finish line amidst cheering supporters and fellow competitors. Weather conditions can be unpredictable on the mountain, ranging from cold winds and hail to clear sunny skies. Runners are advised to come prepared with appropriate gear as listed in the race regulations to ensure their safety throughout the event. Post-race celebrations include a pasta party, festive evening entertainment featuring DJs, and lively après-ski activities at the finish line area. This creates an atmosphere of camaraderie among participants while offering opportunities for relaxation and socializing after the intense physical challenge. The THP Winter is also part of the Provence Trails Challenge, which includes 39 events across multiple distances throughout the year in France. Participants can earn points based on their best performances to achieve rankings within this prestigious series. For those looking to extend their stay beyond race day, nearby attractions like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and its picturesque village built into rock cliffs offer a chance for relaxation with scenic walks around Lac de Sainte-Croix or indulging in local culinary delights such as black truffles. These activities provide the perfect complement to an already unforgettable trail running experience. Whether you're aiming to conquer rugged terrain, enjoy breathtaking views over Provence, or simply immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this region, the THP Winter promises a unique and memorable adventure for all who take part. The event not only celebrates athletic achievement but also fosters community spirit among trail runners. With its diverse range of courses catering to various skill levels and ages, the THP Winter invites everyone to explore the beauty and challenges that Lure Mountain offers in winter conditions.
Races Offered
W100
Nov 21, 2026
straighten
Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
€120.00
W70
Nov 21, 2026
straighten
Distance —
70K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:00
sell
€90.00
W70 relais
Nov 21, 2026
straighten
Distance —
70K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:00
sell
€50.00
W45
Nov 21, 2026
straighten
Distance —
45K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
12:00
sell
€65.00
W30
Nov 21, 2026
straighten
Distance —
29K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
13:00
sell
€50.00
W15
Nov 21, 2026
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Distance —
14K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
14:00
sell
€25.00
Pacer
Nov 21, 2026
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Distance —
0K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
49 days remaining
sell
€0.00
W junior
Nov 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
4.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:30
sell
€5.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for November in Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues.
thermostatTemperature
4.3° / 11.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
0.6° / 9.0°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
7h 6m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.6 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
72.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
08:32
nightlight
Sunset
18:11
About Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues
Learn more about the host city, Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues.
Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues is a commune in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in southeastern France.
