Patrouille des Jeunes 2026

Participants run in teams of two (mixed, female or male). The race takes place between Les Ruinettes, La Chaux and the foot of Bec des Rosses, offering a unique sporting experience in the mountains. Three courses adapted to different levels will be offered, with varying altitudes and specific ascent and descent distances for each age category:

- Long route (U18: 2008-2009 / U20: 2006-2007): D+ 800 m / D- 1,466 m
- Short route (U16: 2010-2016): Elevation gain 620 m / Elevation loss 1,286 m
- Discovery course (2006-2016): Elevation gain 280 m / Elevation loss 940 m

This event is also the Swiss Alpine Club's Swiss Youth Team Championship.

To prepare for the race, young people can take part in several activities during the winter, such as Kids Pellissier Sport outings, the Grand Prix Pellissier Sport Kids, the Swiss/Youth Skimo Cup or Saturday training sessions with Mountain Performance in the Verbier 4 Vallées area. Partner shops also offer reduced rates for ski mountaineering equipment hire to make it easier for everyone to take part.

The race starts at Les Ruinettes (2,200 m) and finishes at Place Blanche, with music and a festive atmosphere. After the race, participants gather in the tent in the Périn car park for a meal and the prize-giving ceremony in a friendly atmosphere.

Interested young people are invited to enquire at their school, which manages some registrations to avoid duplication. In addition, the State of Valais grants participants a special day off.

Form your duo and come and enjoy sport, fun and team spirit in the mountains! You can find more information and the registration link by clicking here. Registration costs CHF 25.