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Run the Alps Trail Running Guide

Sam Hill

Sam Hill
Hometown
Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland
Certifications

International Mountain Leader

A bit about me

I am a full time, freelance International Mountain Leader, although “full time” is a subjective term. I try to work as much as I can in the Alps, but my work often takes me further afield. Leading expeditions to exotic places is a great part of the job. Ultimately, I am a big believer in doing what you love, and I feel incredibly privileged to be in the position to do just that.

Trail running background

Having grown up in the Lake District, in the Northwest of England, the “fells” are in my blood. Although I have now spent several years running in the Alps, including UTMB’s 330 km-long PTL, I also enjoy returning to the UK for big one-day trail running challenges such as the Bob Graham Round and Paddy Buckley Round.

Why I love guiding

The best part of this job is meeting such an incredible mix of people and characters. I have worked with billionaires to brick layers — and everyone in-between. I could write a book about all of the fascinating stories that I have been told over the years – and what better setting for a good story than in the mountains?

Guide website
Guide website
Region coverage
Chamonix Valley
Berner Oberland
German-speaking Valais
French-speaking Valais
Chablais
Pre-Alps
Independent guide fee
$380
Gallery
Sam Hill with his group walking uphill on a gravel road

Sam Hill Run the Alps Guide with his group

Laughing Sam Hill with red shirt and blue viser, shorts and trail run vest

Sam Hill Run the Alps Guide in Chamonix

Sam Hill and a female trail runner on a rainy day

Sam Hill Run the Alps Guide on rainy day

Blog

Every Trail Runner’s Biggest Fear: Keeping Up With the Group

Every Trail Runner’s Biggest Fear: Keeping Up With the Group

I’m not sure I can run up those hills. What if I’m the slowest? How do I know which trip is right for me?

Guided

Trail Run with The Mirnavator in Switzerland!

Trail Run with The Mirnavator in Switzerland!

Mirna Valerio, aka “The Mirnavator,” is back again this summer, and we could not be happier! This time, we’re headed to Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, home of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

New gear

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

A few years ago, we started looking for the perfect bag for our clients to move their belongings from inn to inn, when they’re trail running the Tour du Mont-Blanc. This is it! The 55-liter size has enough room for a few sets of town clothes and personal effects.