Patrouille des Glaciers 2026 — Norton Peak, official timekeeper of the PDG
The Patrouille des Glaciers — or PDG — is no ordinary race. Organised every two years by the Swiss Army, it is considered one of the world’s most iconic ski mountaineering races, linking Zermatt to Verbier across the Valais Alps.
Why the Patrouille des Glaciers is a legendary race
Over 57.5 kilometers and more than 4,000 meters of elevation gain, teams of three progress roped together, often at night, in an extreme environment where every decision matters.
Norton Peak, a Swiss watch brand born in Valais, is proud to be the official timekeeper of the Patrouille des Glaciers 2026 and 2028 — a natural partnership between watchmaking precision and alpine commitment.
What is the Patrouille des Glaciers (PDG)?
Created in 1943 by the Swiss Army, the Patrouille des Glaciers (official website of the Patrouille des Glaciers) was originally designed to test the capabilities of alpine troops under extreme conditions.
After a pause following an accident in 1949, the race was revived and gradually became a global reference in ski mountaineering.
Today, the PDG brings together thousands of participants — both civilian and military — from around the world, competing in teams of three and embodying a unique spirit of solidarity and self-transcendence.
The legendary route: from Zermatt to Verbier via Arolla
The main race (Course Z): 57.5 km and 4,386 m of elevation gain
Course Z, the flagship event of the PDG, connects Zermatt to Verbier via Arolla. Spanning 57.5 km with more than 4,000 meters of elevation gain, it crosses glaciers, passes, and ridgelines in high alpine terrain. The race usually starts at night from Zermatt, before reaching the Tête Blanche, the highest point of the course at over 3,600 meters above sea level.
Discover the details of the Patrouille des Glaciers Z course
The small race (Course A): Arolla–Verbier, 29 km
Course A, shorter but still demanding, connects Arolla to Verbier over approximately 27 to 30 km with nearly 2,000 meters of elevation gain. It allows teams to experience the PDG while remaining accessible to a wider range of experienced competitors.
The iconic passes of the PDG
Tête Blanche — the roof of the race
At 3,650 meters above sea level, the Tête Blanche is the highest point of the PDG. Exposed to cold and wind, it represents one of the most demanding moments of the race.
Col de Bertol — a technical roped section
After descending from the Tête Blanche, teams reach the Col de Bertol, a technical section where mastering roped skiing is essential.
Rosablanche — the final challenge before Verbier
The last major difficulty of the course, Rosablanche marks the final effort before the descent to Verbier and the finish line.
Discover the legendary passes of the Patrouille des Glaciers
An extraordinary sporting feat: figures and records
The Patrouille des Glaciers is now one of the most demanding ski mountaineering races in the world.
- up to several thousand participants
- teams of 3 patrol members
- Course Z record: 5h35 (2018 edition)
A performance that highlights the exceptional level of the top competing athletes.
57,5 km
Total distance of the main race
4 386 m
Total cumulative elevation gain
1943
First edition
1 600
Participating patrols in recent editions
