Regulations
Find out everything you need to know about taking part in our event. These regulations contain all the information you need to know about your race, as well as the rules to follow to ensure an enjoyable and fair experience for all participants.
It is imperative that each participant takes note of it and respects it.
By registering for the race, you fully accept the rules, including any updates and modifications.
As a participant, you agree to respect the instructions and obligations associated with the race, as well as the rules aimed at preserving the environment and ensuring the smooth running of the event.
La Vie en Vosges
In the heart of the Massif des Vosges, covering more than thirty towns and villages in the Vosges and Haute-Rhinois, the crests, stubble fields, waterfalls, natural lakes, deep valleys and glaciers, atypical villages, the Vosges' historical and archaeological heritage, exceptional sites and our 650 volunteers who take it to heart to welcome the runners. The Infernal is the biggest nature race in the department and the region.
A heart of 650 volunteers
Today, the Infernal Trail des Vosges® is a lever for development and opportunities for the region, its partners and local authorities. It relies on dynamic local support, with 650 committed and passionate local volunteers, without whom nothing would be possible, reinforcing the brand image shared and experienced by all Vosgiens.
Organizers
The Infernal Trail des Vosges is a 100% voluntary sporting event organized by L'Infernal Trail Organisation, a non-profit association under the law of 1901. With the support of the 36 municipalities it crosses, including Saint-Nabord, the Conseil Départemental des Vosges and the Région Grand Est.
The present regulations apply to all the following events: IT200, IT130, IT100, IT100R, IT70, IT70R, IT30, IT30R, IT15, L'INFERNIGHT, RUN, MINI RUN, MINI INFERNAL. It has been drawn up in compliance with the Fédération Française d'Athlétisme (FFA) regulations governing off-stadium racing.
The present regulations may be modified at any time and without prior notice by the "L'Infernal Trail des Vosges" event organizing team, up until the day before the start of the first race. Any updates will be published on the official event website: www.linfernaltraildesvosges.org
Event program
The event program is available on our website in the program section. Regularly and definitively updated as the event approaches, it includes all the schedules and locations of the races and events.
Access to the event and the village
To get to L'Infernal Trail des Vosges, which takes place at the Stade des Perrey in Saint-Nabord, we recommend you plan your route in advance to avoid any last-minute problems. The stadium is accessible by car, and has limited parking divided into several zones (according to occupancy). We strongly encourage car-pooling among participants to reduce the ecological footprint of the event.
For runners arriving by train, the Remiremont TGV station is the nearest, about 5 km from the start. Alternatively, you can take the train to Saint-Nabord station (on the same route, but without the TGV stop).
Shuttle buses will run between Remiremont and Saint-Nabord stations and the site. Please check the timetable on our website (which will be updated as the event approaches).
Finally, as this is a very busy event, we would like to remind all participants that it is essential to arrive at least one hour before the start of the race, in order to complete registration formalities and check compulsory equipment.
Schedules & locations
Event address :
Stade des Perrey, 50 Rue du Centre, 88200 Saint-Nabord, Vosges
Village opening hours :
- Thursday at 5 p.m.
- Friday at 5 p.m.
- Saturday from 7 a.m.
- Sunday until 7 a.m.
Bib number collection times are listed in the program and will be given to you before the event and on each day the village is open.
Registration and number pick-up
Registration for L'Infernal Trail des Vosges races is only possible online on our dedicated platform, with payment by credit card.
The openings are delayed to offer better visibility and a more coherent organization of our registrations:
- Ultras: opening in early January
- IT70 (solo and trio relay): opening in early February
- IT30 (solo and trio relay) and IT15: opening in early March
- L'INFERNIGHT, RUN & MINIRUN, MINI INFERNAL: opening in early April
All races will be accessible by April. The Infernal Trail Organisation applies a progressive pricing system for race numbers, in order to simplify organization and improve your experience, particularly with regard to prizes and preparation. Exclusions: INFERNIGHT, RUN, MINIRUN and MINI INFERNAL.
Once you have registered, you will receive confirmation once your file has been validated by our service provider. To be validated, your file must include all the requested documents.
For the RUN, adults must submit a liability waiver on the platform, in the same way as a medical certificate. For the RUN, MINIRUN and MINI INFERNAL, minors must provide parental authorization.
Group and relay registrations
For relay races (IT100, IT70 and IT30), entries are made on the same site as for other events, by forming a team at registration. Here's how it works:
- Team and number: each team must consist of the exact number of participants required, each being a separate person. Only one bib is allocated to each team serving as relay baton, and it must be removed by one of its members.
- Start and bag check: relays start at the same time as the relevant race. A bag check will be carried out at the start for the participant taking the first relay.
- Travel to and from the relay bridges is the responsibility of the participants.
- Starting points and prizes: each relay point is indicated on the relevant race page and on the course. A prize for each person in the group is to be collected at the end of the race (arrival of the last relay).
Group registrations
Riders can register as a "Group", whether for a local club or just between friends. For groups of 10 or more, please contact us at inscriptions@linfernaltrail.org. A member of our team will guide you through the procedure.
Rider commitment
By registering for a race, you accept all the rules and regulations, including any updates, and undertake to comply with the instructions, environmental measures and obligations of the organization.
You also agree to :
- Know and accept the conditions of participation, understand the demands and length of the event, and be fully prepared.
- Be aware that the organization is not there to manage individual problems;
- Be in possession of personal insurance covering rescue, search and evacuation costs in France.
- Check for any medical contraindications and relieve the organization of any responsibility in the event of health problems arising during the race.
- Have completed the Health Prevention Course (PPS) or parental authorization for minors, or a waiver for the RUN.
- Respect the random checks carried out on the course and accept any decision that may be taken.
- Promote respect for people, places and rules.
Conditions of registration :
- Registration is personal, binding and non-refundable (except in the case of cancellation insurance taken out at the time of registration).
- Registration is open until all race numbers are sold out. Once the quota is reached, you can join a waiting list to be contacted if a number becomes available. This list works in order of registration, but does not guarantee a place.
Image rights and personal data
Image rights
By taking part in the race, each competitor expressly waives his or her right to image during the event and to any recourse against the organization and its authorized partners concerning the use of this image. The organizers reserve the right to transfer this right to the media via internal accreditation.
Each participant expressly authorizes the Infernal Trail Organisation and its assignees (partners, licensees, media) to use, in any medium, still or audiovisual images taken during the event in which he or she may appear. This authorization is valid worldwide and for the maximum duration stipulated by the laws and regulations in force, including any extensions.
The Infernal Trail des Vosges is a registered trademark, and any communication or use of images of the event must respect the name of the event and the registered trademarks, with the official agreement of the organization. Only the organization is authorized to use images of participants, and may delegate this right.
Personal data protection
In accordance with the "Informatique et Liberté" law and the RGPD, each participant has rights of access, rectification and opposition concerning his or her personal data. Any request can be made by e-mail to the organization. The personal data collected is intended exclusively for authorized staff of the organization and will be used for organizational purposes and publication of results.
The results of the race, together with the name, surname and region of the participants, will be published on the event website and may be used by the media. To object to this publication for legitimate reasons, participants must inform the organization no later than thirty (30) days before the event. In this case, they will not be eligible for a ranking.
Personal data is kept for a period of three (3) years after the event, then archived for legal or judicial reasons.
Purchasing leisure services and personalized products
The purchase of a race number or any personalized product such as registration options does not benefit from any right of withdrawal, in accordance with articles L. 121-20-4 and L. 221-28 of the French Consumer Code.
Insurance
Each participant must take out personal accident insurance covering civil liability, death, permanent disability, search and rescue, assistance and repatriation. Unjustified helicopter evacuation costs will be charged to the participant. In the event of medical treatment, the participant must immediately inform the organization and his/her insurer, so that one or other of the insurances can cover the costs. Failing this, the costs will be borne by the participant.
FFA licensees benefit from the guarantees associated with their license, but non-licensed participants must take out their own personal accident insurance. The organization reserves the right to choose the means of evacuation, always giving priority to runners' safety.
Organizer's liability
In accordance with the law, the Infernal Trail Organisation has taken out civil liability insurance covering its employees and participants for accidents they may cause during the event. This cover is in addition to participants' personal insurance. Proof of insurance cover can be provided to participants on request.
Cancellation insurance option
Participants can take out cancellation insurance at the time of registration. This option, which must be selected before registration is validated, allows for reimbursement of part of the registration fee under certain conditions set by the insurer. Without such insurance, the organization will not be able to accept any request for reimbursement.
Property damage
The organizer declines all responsibility for theft, loss or damage to participants' personal belongings, including equipment left in lightweight bags provided for the race, before, during and after the race. Participants remain solely responsible for their belongings and are encouraged to take out personal insurance to cover such risks.
Bibs
Number withdrawal
Bib numbers are given out individually and in person on presentation of :
- Photo ID;
- A withdrawal ticket, available in the form of a QR code after full validation of the registration and sent one week before the event by the organization.
Tickets can be collected from the event village, from the eponymous area near the starting racket. Address: Stade des Perrey, 50 Rue du Centre, 88200 Saint-Nabord.
Using the bib
The race number is fitted with a timing chip that participants must keep intact. It must be worn without folds, on the chest or stomach, throughout the race. If the number or chip is damaged, preventing detection, no claim will be possible, and the organizer cannot be held responsible. To do this, he must :
- It must be worn visibly, on the chest or stomach, above all clothing. It may not be attached to a bag or leg;
- It must remain intact: the rider's name and partner logos may not be modified or hidden;
- The race number gives access to the starting gate, refreshments, meals and prizes (for the races concerned), showers and bag drop-off/pick-up areas for ultras;
- In the event of withdrawal, the race number is simply deactivated and must be handed in to the refreshment volunteer, who will call Race HQ to declare you DNF (Did not finish) and arrange for a shuttle bus.
Runners are responsible for checking the number pick-up times at the time of registration, in order to organize their arrival at Saint-Nabord (start site) according to their race start time.
Compulsory equipment
You must carry all the equipment listed in the table below. The equipment described is the minimum kit required to take part in the Infernal Trail des Vosges. Each participant is free to add whatever equipment he or she deems necessary for the event. Cell phones are compulsory for all races except the RUN and races for minors (MINIRUN and MINI INFERNAL). The organization cannot be held responsible for any failure to comply with these rules.
The complete list of compulsory equipment can be found here : mandatory equipment sheet
Additional kits (heatwave, bad weather) may be activated depending on the weather. The decision will be taken by the organization as the event approaches, in consultation with the authorities and dedicated experts. They can be found in the following category "Weather conditions".
Weather conditions
If circumstances so require, the organizers reserve the right to make changes at any time to routes, start times, time limits, the location of refreshment points and aid stations, and any other element necessary for the smooth running of the event.
In the event of force majeure, adverse weather conditions or any situation compromising the safety of participants, the organization may take the following measures:
- Activate additional mandatory equipment kits (heatwave - bad weather)
- Postpone departure
- Adjusting time barriers
- Shift event date
- Adapt planned itinerary
- Cancel race
- Temporarily pause the test
- Interrupting a race in progress
Two kits can be used, adapted to each race and to be found here : additional kits sheet
Opt for clothing that offers effective mountain protection against cold, wind and snow, to guarantee your safety and optimize your performance. Make sure every piece fits properly.
Races
L'Infernal Trail des Vosges races are open to runners of all nationalities, licensed or not, who meet the age, category and distance criteria category and distance established by the FFA. The formats are free-paced mountain races, open to seniors, veterans, men and women. The RUN & MINIRUN are obstacle races.
(On each race title, put the link to the race page)
IT200 - ULTRA-TRAIL DU MASSIF DES VOSGES (solo)
An adventure unique in the Grand Est region and in France.
200km - 10,000 D+ - 61h max. - Departure Thursday evening at 23:59
IT130 - LA LONGUE TRACE DES VOSGES (solo)
A wonderful crossing of the Hautes-Vosges
130km - 6300 D+ - 33h max. - Departure on Friday evening at 23:59
IT100 - THE MYTHIC DISTANCE IN THE VOSGES (solo or duo)
A new challenge since 2023, a new legend.
100km - 4500 D+ - 33h max. - Departure on Friday evening at 23:59
IT70 - THE DISCOVERY OF THE VOSGES LONG TRAIL (solo or trio relay)
A solo or team adventure on the Massif du Fossard
70km - 3300 D+ - 16h max. - Departure Saturday morning at 9 a.m.
IT30 - THE IDEAL MEDIUM DISTANCE TRAIL IN THE VOSGES (solo or trio relay)
Competitive adventure and discovery of Saint-Nabord
30km - 1000 D+ - 7h max. - Start Sunday morning at 9am
IT15 - DISCOVERING THE VOSGES ON A LONG-DISTANCE TRAIL
The best opportunity to discover trail running
15km - 500 D+ - Start Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m.
THE INFERNIGHT - THE NIGHT TRAIL OPEN TO ALL
Night racing for all
8km - 120 D+ - Departure Friday evening at 8:30 p.m.
RUN - THE COLORFUL OBSTACLES RUN (ages 15 and up)
Departure Saturday afternoon at 5 p.m.
MINI RUN - THE COLORFUL OBSTACLE RUN (ages 8 to 15)
Departure Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m.
MINI INFERNAL - THE MULTI-DISTANCE RACE FOR LITTLE ONES
From 400m to 3km - from 4 to 13 years old - Departure Saturday morning at 11 a.m.
Only formats marked "IT" are timed. They are accessible with a medical certificate or an FFA sports license, valid on the start date.
Routes and markers
The formats, hors RUN, MINI RUN and MINI INFERNAL, are events on trails and itineraries through the Massif des Vosges. They are mapped out and designed in the heart of the Vosges, with over 90% of paths and trails marked. All races start and finish at the Stade des Perrey in Saint-Nabord.
Beaconing
The route is marked with high ribbons fitted with reflective strips visible by headlamp light. In some sections, pennants on the ground complete the markings. Signs are placed at all crossroads and at regular intervals to ensure clear orientation as you progress. In crossing areas, the markings are reinforced by ground markings, and volunteer signallers will be present at high-risk crossings. Out of respect for the environment, no paint or other means of marking that could impact nature will be used on the trails.
The course markings, though meticulous, may be imperfect. We therefore recommend that you use GPX tracks, consult online tracks (generally available a month before the event) and refer to the roadbook, which will be available at the end of August, for complete guidance. Please report any missing markings at the next aid station or by contacting Race HQ.
Route changes
The organizer can modify the initial route according to environmental, weather or safety constraints. Although the signposting is designed to be efficient, it is advisable to also use GPX tracks, the road-book and online information for optimum guidance. In the event of insufficient or missing signposting, please report it at the next refuelling point or by contacting RACE HQ.
Racers are not allowed to participate with a dog or any other animal, including service animals.
Refreshments
General regulations
The rule for each race is semi-autonomy: each participant must be able to manage his or her own needs between two refreshment points (food, equipment, safety), so as to be able to deal with the unexpected (weather, fatigue, injuries...).
The refreshment points are designed to support you throughout the event and enable you to give your best. We recommend that you bring your own solid food. The aid stations are equipped with sanitary facilities and supported by our medical teams. They offer drinks and solid food, with hot options at certain points. Many thanks to our volunteers who make these moments as pleasant as possible.
Food and beverages
We select a wide range of products to satisfy all your needs, whether you prefer sweet, savoury or extra treats (always welcome during an ultra). Each aid station will offer both solid and liquid supplies (some of them hot and cold).
Assistance
Only authorized in the feed zones, in their immediate vicinity and under the supervision of the station chief. Assistance outside these zones will incur a time penalty.
Changes of equipment (shoes, clothing) are only allowed in the life bases, when they are provided on the course.
Refuelling management
To ensure that the races run smoothly, followers are asked to limit their presence inside the feed zones, especially when space is restricted there. These zones are reserved for runners throughout the Infernal events and are managed by volunteers with full authoritý to ensure their smooth running. Since 2024, there have been penalties for non-compliance with these rules.
Personal cup mandatory
Each runner must carry his/her own equipment throughout the race. The organization reserves the right to refuse access to the start if the participant does not have it. For ultras, a bowl and cutlery are compulsory if you wish to eat hot.
The list of refreshment points and rest areas, with their locations and time limits, will be communicated once the routes have been validated by the authorities. You will be able to consult it on each race page concerned.
You can find this information here : refreshment points
Assistance
Participants may only be assisted at refreshment points, within the defined refreshment zone and at the discretion of the station manager.
It is forbidden to be accompanied along any part of the race route by a person not registered for the race. A participant who agrees to be accompanied outside designated areas is no longer respecting the principle of semi-autonomy and is liable tò disqualification.
Lightening bags
Only the IT200, IT130 and IT100 races allow the use of a lightweight bag, to be deposited at the start near the number collection point, with a label supplied by the organization. This bag identification system will be supplied at the number withdrawal point. The following are concerned:
- IT200: two lightening bags allowed - one for Bussang and Cornimont (same stages), and one for Saint-Amarin.
- IT130: a bag transported to the Cornimont base camp.
- IT100: a bag transported to the Haut du Tôt refreshment area.
Runners must collect their bags after the race, or in the event of withdrawal, from the "bag drop-off" area near the number collection area at the Stade des Perrey, before 4 p.m. on Sunday. After this time, shipping charges will apply.
Lighter bags to be provided by participants (to be arranged before coming).
Respect for the environment
The Infernal Trail des Vosges, in partnership with the local authorities and the PNR des Ballons des Vosges, makes it a point of honor to preserve the environment and the authentic landscapes of the Vosges massif. The event takes place in the heart of nature, involving all participants - runners, volunteers and spectators - in the respect and protection of this fragile ecosystem.
These measures are to be taken into account by all, and even more so when being neaŕ natural areas with special vocations: Reserves - Natura 2000 - Wetlands - ENS etc. The organization undertakes to make every effort to:
- Preserve the trails and their cleanlinesś ;
- Reduce waste as much as possible while recycling as much as possible;
- Encourage the use of public transport, carpooling and soft mobility;
- Minimize as far as possible the impact on villages and natural areas.
Recommendations for runners:
- Do not leave any waste on the road and sort it at the stations for recycling;
- If your batteries are not rechargeable, dispose of them in special containers;
- Use the toilets provided if possible;
- Compliance with instructions when crossing parks with livestock;
- When crossing areas where animals are present: do not shout or wave your sticks;
- Stay on the trails and respect the markings so as not to go off them;
- Maximum discretion (especially in Natura 2000 areas)
- Keep to the narrow path;
Recommendation for runners:
- Motor vehicle traffic prohibited outside roads open to traffic;
- Do not park in sensitive areas or use protected zones;
- Respect the zones established around refreshment points;
- Do not dispose of waste in the environment;
- Avoid dangerous behaviour (cigarettes, fire...) and respect the rules in force;
- Collect any garbage around you and dispose of it in the nearest garbage can;
- Keep a low profile for local residents and wildlife, especially at night;
You can find our commitments and this information here : environmental data sheet
Rescue and safety
First-aid posts are deployed at various strategic points along the course, in constant liaison with Race HQ and Emergency HQ. A medical team is on hand throughout the event, ready to intervene on site by any means necessary.
Riders in difficulty or seriously injured must call for assistance by :
- Going to an aid station;
- Contacting the Emergency HQ directly (number indicated on race number and memorized);
- Asking another participant or someone nearby to call for help.
Each rider is responsible for assisting anyone in danger and for immediately reporting any problems or incidents to the nearest checkpoint.
It's important to bear in mind that unforeseen circumstances, whether due to natural conditions, weather or terrain, can extend the rescue response time. The quality of your equipment will therefore play a crucial role in your safety.
Any rider who has requested the intervention of a doctor or first-aider must comply with their instructions. Medical teams are authorized to :
- Withdraw from the race any participant deemed physically unfit to continue;
- Organize the evacuation by any appropriate means of riders considered to be in a dangerous situation;
- Hospitalize those whose condition requires it.
Any costs incurred for exceptional rescue or evacuation will be borne by the rider concerned, who will also be responsible for arranging his or her return from the evacuation site. It is the rider's responsibility to prepare and submit a claim to his/her own insurance company within the required timeframe.
If you are unable to reach the emergency headquarters, the emergency services can be contacted directly (particularly in areas with restricted coverage) by dialing 112 from France.
If the weather is unfavorable (dense fog, rain, thunderstorms)
- Try to form small groups and don't hesitate to turn back;
- Respect the specific instructions of the signallers and equip yourself accordingly;
- If necessary, take shelter in the cabins/shelters along the route.
You can find this information here :safety data sheet
Useful numbers
Organization numbers :
PC SECOURS : +33 7 64 19 96 96
PC COURSE: +33 7 64 25 37 27
Save these numbers in your phone before the start of any race. In the event of an accident, or if you witness one during the event, you'll be able to contact them immediately, wherever you are.
As a reminder, the emergency numbers in France are :
15 : SAMU
17: Police or gendarmerie
112: European emergency number
They allow you to contact the appropriate services directly for each situation.
Abandon
Except in the case of injury, withdrawals must only be made at a checkpoint. You must inform a refreshment volunteer, who will collect your number and call RACE HQ and a shuttle bus.
In the event of injury or inabilitý to move, it is imperative to call the PC SECOURS directly. If you drop out before a checkpoint, return to the previous checkpoint and report it to a volunteer.
If the decision to retire is taken between 2 feed or control points, the rider must go to the nearest point where he must report his retirement to a volunteer.
Ranking and awards
Results will be available after each race, in real time, on our event website: www.linfernaltraildesvosges.org and/or via our L'Infernal Live platform, available during and after the event.
Podiums are awarded to the top 5 scratches in each of these races (men and women) : IT200, IT130, IT100, IT70, IT30 and IT15. For team races, the first 5 teams of 2 for the IT100 Duo (mixed) and the first 3 relay teams (mixed) for the IT70R and IT30R will be rewarded.
Classifications available: IT 200, IT 130, IT 100, IT100 Relais duo, IT 70, IT 70 Relais, IT 30, IT 30 Relais and IT 15 (all timed races). The awards ceremony will take place in a single ceremony on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. in the protocol area at the heart of the village.
Prize-winners must attend the prize-giving ceremony. Prizes can only be collected at this time, and only by the winners. To collect their prize, each runner must be present at the prize-giving ceremony, otherwise no prize will be sent.
Penalties & Disqualification
In the event of a rider failing to comply with the rules, the race directors and station managers are authorized to immediately apply a penalty, as specified in the table below:
Breaches of regulations | Penalties |
Cross-section showing an unmarked route shortcut between 2 PCs, | Penalty 1h00 minimum |
Absence of mandatory safety equipment (as detailed in paragraph 10) | Immediate disqualification |
Refusal of a mandatory equipment check | Disqualification |
Deliberate littering by a competitor or a member of his entourage | Disqualification |
No respect for people (organization, volunteers or riders) Please note: any participant whose supporters display incivilities and/or refuse to comply with the organizer's instructions will be penalized. | Disqualification |
Failure to assist a person in difficulty | Disqualification |
Failure to pass through a checkpoint | Disqualification after analysis and decision by the race jury |
Refusal to obey an order from race management, a station chief, a doctor or a first-aider | Disqualification |
Non-compliance with drug regulations | 30-minute penalty |
Refusing a doping control | Disqualification + AFLD procedure |
Departure from a checkpoint after the cut-off time | Disposal |
Accompaniment on the course (hare, personal pacer...) outside the clearly marked tolerance zones near the refreshment posts. | Penalty 1h00 |
Illegal assistance outside tolerance zones or water bag exchange | Penalty 1h00 |
Cheating (e.g. using a means of transport, sharing a race number, etc.) | Disqualification |
Use of poles not carried at the start of the race or abandonment of poles during the race | Penalty 1h00 |
Any other breach of the rules will be sanctioned at the discretion of race management. Repeat offences may result in disqualification. Penalties will be added to the finishing time. In the event of disqualification, no refund of entry fees will be given.
You can find the information here : penalties sheet
Edition and publication
L'Infernal Trail Organisation, organizing association
Last updated version 26/12/2024 - Published on 26/12/2024.