Stairways to Heaven and Firefighter Challenge
Overview
Intro
The toughest Vertical in Europe! The race takes place on the historic staircases of the Piotta-Ritom Funicular.
For runners – 09.05.2026
For firefighters – 10.05.2026 (trial reserved exclusively for firefighters)
Course description
1.3 km in length with 790m of elevation gain, covering 4,261 steps. The 4,261 steps follow the tracks of the funicular and the water pipes leading to a hydroelectric power plant. The average gradient is 71%, with a maximum gradient of 89%. The course is marked and monitored by mountain rescue personnel.
A refreshment point is located at the upper station of the funicular. Participants return to the starting area individually via marked trails or by funicular at the end of the race.
Spectators are invited to watch the race from the starting point, along the road at one of the various crossings, or at the funicular’s upper station area.
PROGRAM
- 7:00 - 9:00: Bib distribution
- 9:00: Bag transport
- 9:30: Race briefing
- 10:00: Race start
- 14:00: End of the race
- 15:00: Awards ceremony
| Contact address |
info@stairways.ch
|
|---|---|
| Location |
Partenza Funicolare Ritom Via Funicolare 3 6776 Piotta Switzerland |
| Event Homepage | https://www.stairways.ch |
The content presented here is provided and updated by regional/local tourist offices or event organisers, which is why Switzerland Tourism is unable to guarantee the correctness of the contents.
Event dates
- 09 May 2026
- 10 May 2026