The Patrouille des Glaciers (PDG) is much more than your average ski-mountaineering competition. This iconic event attracts mountaineering enthusiasts for an epic adventure through high-altitude regions at the heart of Valais’ peaks. On the route from Zermatt to Verbier via Arolla, this demanding race tests the resilience, endurance and determination of the competing trios.
This biennial event is an unmissable fixture for fans of mountain sports, and participants can compete in either the 29.6km “Petite Patrouille” starting from Arolla or the 57.5km “Grande Patrouille” from Zermatt.
Due to the bad weather forecast, the organizers of the Patrouille des Glaciers have decided to cancel the races on Tuesday April 16 and Wednesday April 17.
For the time being, only races Z2 (departures from Zermatt on Saturday at 10pm) and A2 (departures from Arolla on Saturday night at 3am) will be held.
No matter the distance, the objective remains the same: reach Verbier after tackling nature’s ruthless challenges of glaciers and craggy terrain. Both routes finish in Verbier on 21 April.
For the event, the ski lifts will open earlier than usual to give you the chance to encourage and support the participants along the course before they cross the finish line.
| Lifts | Opening times |
|---|---|
| Le Châble - Verbier | From 4.30am |
| Médran | From 4.30am |
| Chaux-Express | From 4.30am |
| Jumbo | From 5am |
| Siviez | From 4.45am |
| Tortin - Gentianes | From 5am |
Le Châble and Médran cash desks will open from 4.30am. Pedestrian passes can also be purchased online.