I have run Ruta del Hielero three times. When I was just starting out, I did the shorter distances: my watch recorded 26 km in 2022 and 24 km in 2023. In 2024 I ran the longer distance, and my watch recorded 44 km. Those are my personal watch measurements.
Both distances were difficult, but the 40K felt even more beautiful to me. There is more time to experience the mountain and notice how the landscape changes. Depending on the cloud cover, there is also a good chance of seeing Chimborazo. It is not guaranteed, but when the mountain appears it changes the experience completely.
I remember a beautiful canyon and the stone path on the mountain. The organizer, NAFTA EC, describes the race as following the paths used by Chimborazo’s ice harvesters and names the stone path among its landmarks.
I have the impression that this was the highest altitude I have reached in a race, although I cannot state that with certainty and do not have a confirmed personal figure. If I had to choose, I would recommend the longer distance to fully enjoy the mountain. The shorter one is a way to get to know the race when you are starting out, but both require effort.
This is my personal experience of the editions I ran. The 26, 24 and 44 km distances come from my watch and do not replace the official distances.