Vertical kilometer

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Vertical kilometer

What is it
A vertical kilometer is an uphill mountain running race that climbs about 1,000 meters in elevation. Races are usually under 5 kilometers in length. Trekking poles are often allowed as optional gear.

Races and circuits
The Vertical Kilometer World Circuit is an annual international series started in 2017 as a spin-off of the Skyrunner World Series. It features about 17 races each year, held from May to October. The Kilomètre vertical de Fully (Fully Vertical Kilometer) is one of the best-known events in the circuit.

Records
Men: Urban Zemmer set a former world best of 29:42 in Fully (2014). Philip Götsch later won the Fully race in 28:53 (2017). In 2021, Kilian Jornet posted a fast time of 28:48 at Vengetind, Norway (an unofficial fastest time).

Women: Axelle Mollaret set the women’s world record of 33:00 in September 2025 at Nantaux-Montriond, France.

See also
- Vertical Kilometer World Circuit
- Skyrunning
- Trail running
- Mountain running