Z Course of the Patrouille des Glaciers: from Zermatt to Verbier
The Z course of the Patrouille des Glaciers is the race’s flagship route. It connects Zermatt to Verbier via Arolla over 57.5 km with more than 4,386 meters of elevation gain across glaciers, passes and alpine ridges.
Key stages of the course
Start in Zermatt
Teams set off at night, climbing gradually towards the glaciers.
Arolla section
A strategic checkpoint, both physically and mentally demanding.
Finish in Verbier
After more than 50 km, the final descent marks the end of an extreme challenge.
Distance, elevation and difficulty
With over 4,000 meters of elevation gain, the Z course is one of the most demanding ski mountaineering races in the world.
Conditions:
- high altitude (over 3,600 m)
- cold and wind
- roped progression
- technical sections, particularly on some of the race’s iconic passes
Why the Z course is the main race
It combines all key aspects of the PDG:
- extreme effort
- alpine technicality
- teamwork
- endurance
How to prepare
You need:
- strong endurance
- ski mountaineering skills
- team coordination
- altitude adaptation
