Trail running

Condividere

Trail running

Trail des Patrouilleurs 15k

Scale the heights above Crans-Montana with this itinerary that traces some of the resort’s ski pistes to take you up to the Bella Lui, revealing breathtaking views.

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Follow the route of the famous Trail des Patrouilleurs team race (15 km course), which takes you up to the Bella Lui and then the iconic Col du Pochet. Starting at the Ycoor ice rink in Montana, the loop begins with a gentle climb as far as the Lac de Chermignon. The itinerary then becomes steeper, following the course of the famous Chetzeron ski piste up to the hotel of the same name, which reveals superb views of the Rhône valley and the surrounding peaks. Continue your climb as far as Cry d’Er, and then pass via Tsa Bonna to reach the Bella Lui, at an altitude of more than 2,500 metres. From here, do a loop that allows you to climb the ladders of the Col du Pochet for a guaranteed blast of adrenalin. Head back down via the initial section of the Chetzeron piste course before traversing to access Merbé and Arnouvaz. Eventually you reach the centre of Montana after a total descent of more than 1,200 metres, having enjoyed magnificent views of the Alps along the way.

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Turn-by-turn directions

From the Ycoor ice rink, in the centre of the resort of Crans-Montana, follow the road that leads past the Crans Ambassador hotel to reach the Lac de Chermignon. In winter, the Chetzeron ski piste finishes close by; follow the course of the piste up to the hotel of the same name, and then continue along a gentler path up to the Cry d’Er gondola summit station. From here, a path leads eastwards towards Tsa Bonna to access Arpochey and then the famous Col du Pochet, whose ladders allow you to climb up to the ridge. Anyone without a good head for heights can bypass this obstacle by following an alternative path. Follow the ridge to the highest point of your route, the Bella Lui, before beginning your descent. This leads you past the Chetzeron hotel, down to Merbé and eventually to the Arnouvaz restaurant. Finally head back down to the resort to return to the Ycoor ice rink.

Start: Ycoor ice rink, Montana (1498 m)
Destination: Ycoor ice rink, Montana (1498 m)

Author's recommendation

Enjoy the view of the Lac de Tseuzier and take a photo of the giant letter “N” as you head down to the Chetzeron plateau.

Technical information

  • Altitude

    2539 m 1499 m

  • Ascent

    1198 m

  • Descent

    1198 m

  • Technique

    Bewertung: 4 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Stamina

    Bewertung: 3 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Expérience

    Bewertung: 6 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Landscape

    Bewertung: 6 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

Best time of year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • Circular route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent

Public transport

From Sierre station, head up to the resort via the SMC funicular or PostBus.

Approach

Follow the A9 motorway to exit 28 (“Sierre-Ouest”), then follow the signs for Crans-Montana to drive up to the resort.

Parking

Various parking options in the vicinity of the Ycoor ice rink.

Equipment

We recommend: 

  • Good footwear
  • Weather-appropriate clothing: always carry a waterproof jacket
  • Hat or peak cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Hiking poles

Safety information

Use of the trails and the information on this website is at your own risk. Local conditions may entail changes to routes. Valais/Wallis Promotion accepts no liability for the accuracy and completeness of information on this website.

For all trails:

  • Use marked trails only, and take note of all signposting – for both your own safety as well as that of grazing animals and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Close gates after passing through.
  • Please treat other trail users, as well as the plants and animals, with respect.

For mountain trails:

  • Take extra care protecting yourself from the sun at high altitudes. UV radiation can be exceptionally strong, even in cloudy weather.
  • Plan your trail carefully: take the fitness level of each participant, weather forecast and season into consideration.
  • Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, without warning. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In case of uncertain weather conditions, turn back in good time.
  • Inform others of the route you plan to take. Whenever possible, avoid going alone.
  • Take note of warning signs indicating the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels may rise rapidly without warning.

Additional information

More information about the destination:

Literature

The tourist office in Crans-Montana can provide information on trail running in the region.

Mappe

SwissTopo Maps 1:25,000: 1287 Sierre