Kilian Jornet in the USA: The American Odyssey of a Trail Legend

KILIAN JORNET IN THE UNITED STATES: THE AMERICAN ODYSSEY OF A TRAIL LEGEND

When we discuss Kilian Jornet’s exploits in the United States, we are speaking of adventures that push the boundaries of the possible. The Catalan runner, the absolute benchmark in trail and mountain running, has marked the history of American outdoor sport with titanic challenges. From the mythical Western States to the dizzying summits of Colorado, discover how this exceptional athlete conquered the American West with the strength of his legs alone.

STATES OF ELEVATION: HOW KILIAN JORNET LINKED 72 AMERICAN PEAKS IN 31 DAYS

In September 2025, Kilian Jornet embarked on one of his most ambitious projects: States of Elevation. The objective? To link the 72 peaks over 4,267 metres in altitude (the famous "fourteeners") spread across the Western United States. A colossal challenge that took him from Colorado to California, passing through Washington State.

The stats of this odyssey are dizzying: 5,145 km covered and 123,045 metres of positive elevation gain devoured in just 31 days. To put these figures into perspective, it is as if Jornet had climbed Everest fourteen times in a row while covering the distance between Paris and Moscow... twice!

The project began with Colorado's 56 peaks, a true concentration of altitude and technical terrain. Jornet then continued through the Californian Sierra Nevada before finishing with Mount Rainier in Washington State. Each stage presented a unique challenge:

• Days exceeding 20 hours of continuous effort;
• Cycling transitions between certain massifs (where a helmet is essential);
• Meticulous management of recovery and nutrition;
• Constant adaptation to changeable weather conditions.

Beyond the impressive figures, States of Elevation represents a new way of discovering American mountains. Jornet transformed what could have been a simple collection of summits into a true spiritual crossing of the American West.

WHY THE WESTERN STATES REMAINS A SPECIAL PLAYGROUND FOR KILIAN JORNET

The Western States 100, a mythical 100-mile race with 5,500 metres of elevation gain, holds a special place in Kilian Jornet's heart. This legendary event, which traverses the Californian Sierra Nevada, represents the very essence of American ultra-trail running.

In June 2025, Jornet returned to this race where he has triumphed on several occasions. Even though he finished third that year, his performance remains remarkable against a sharp new generation of American runners. The Western States perfectly embodies the blend of tradition and innovation that characterises trail running in the US.

What makes this race so special for Jornet is its unpredictability. Extreme weather conditions, with temperatures that can exceed 40°C in the canyons, add a unique strategic dimension. Hydration management, choice of kit, from shoes to performance eyewear and the capacity to adapt become just as important as pure physical conditioning.

THE UNIQUE TRAITS OF AMERICAN TRAIL RUNNING THAT FASCINATE JORNET

The American approach to trail running differs sensibly from European culture. The distances are longer, the spaces vaster, and self-sufficiency becomes paramount. This philosophy aligns perfectly with Jornet's vision, as he constantly seeks to explore new ways of experiencing the mountains.

American trails also offer an exceptional diversity of terrain: from the scorching deserts of Arizona to the damp forests of the Pacific Northwest and the snow-capped peaks of Colorado. This variety allows athletes like Jornet to push their limits in environments that are always renewing themselves.

WHAT ARE KILIAN JORNET’S NEXT ADVENTURES IN THE AMERICAS?

After States of Elevation, one might think Jornet has exhausted American challenges. Yet, the Catalan never ceases to look towards new horizons. The vast spaces of Alaska, with their extreme conditions and total isolation, represent a playground still unexplored by him.

The trail community waits with bated breath to see if Jornet will tackle other iconic projects, such as a full traverse of the Cascade Range or a record attempt on the Appalachian Trail. These challenges would correspond perfectly to his philosophy: going beyond pure performance to create adventures that inspire and push the boundaries of the possible.

Jornet’s influence on the American trail scene goes well beyond his results. He has contributed to changing the perception of the sport, showing that it is not just about running fast, but also about creating deep connections with the landscapes traversed. This holistic approach to the mountains finds a particular resonance in American outdoor culture.

Kilian Jornet's adventures in the United States remind us that limits exist only in our minds. Whether you are an experienced runner or a simple nature lover, his exploits invite us to look differently at the mountains that surround us. Perhaps your next challenge awaits somewhere between two summits, on a path you haven't dared to take yet. After all, as Jornet proves, it is by stepping out of our comfort zone that we truly discover who we are.