The distance is approximately 80 km, with a total elevation gain of 5.000 m. It is widely regarded as the most difficult foot race in Switzerland and belongs to the most difficult races in Europe.
Then form Tannalp to Balmeregghorn and from there to the Berner Oberland and Planplatten, through the Halsiberg and from there down to the lowest point on the Brünig Pass followed by the steepest ascent up to Lungern Schönbüel.
It then continues through to the final 30 km moorlands and the last ascent to Mount Pilatus.
The Mountainman has its own ethics regulations and some equipment is mandatory throughout the race (backpack with band-aid, plasters, a long top and long pants, mobile phone).
So far the racing times from 2010 and 2011 are not really comparable, as the trail had been organized in the opposite direction in the first edition.