Trail des Gypaètes

The 18th Edition of the Trail des Gypaètes is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026, in the iconic landscapes of Lourdes and Argelès-Gazost, France. This region, located in the Hautes-Pyrénées department, is a spiritual and outdoor sports hub with a population of approximately 13,000 in Lourdes alone. The race is a hallmark event for the "Festovalies en Bigorre" association, which has been organizing local sporting events since 2007. Runners will embark on a challenging journey through the gates of the Vallée des Gaves, summiting three distinct peaks in a race known for its technical difficulty and breathtaking Pyrenean views.

Course Experience and Major Peaks

The trail begins at the Pic du Jer Funicular Station in Lourdes and concludes at the Camping les 3 Vallées in Argelès-Gazost. Participants will tackle three major summits: Le Béout (791 m), Pic du Jer (948 m), and the highest point of the race, Le Pibeste (1349 m). The route is marked with ribbons and requires runners to be in a state of semi-autonomy. A critical time gate is located at the foot of the Pibeste ascent in Ségus; runners must arrive by 12:00 PM to continue the climb. Personal assistance is permitted, and four refreshment stations (liquid and solid) are strategically placed along the course, including at the very top of Pibeste.

Eco-Responsibility and Mandatory Gear

Since 2022, the Trail des Gypaètes has doubled down on its eco-responsible commitment, emphasizing the protection of the mountain environment. Spectators are requested to avoid loud noise-makers like bells or speakers to respect local wildlife. For runners, several items are mandatory for safety in the high-altitude terrain: a water reserve, energy bars, a survival blanket, and a whistle. Electronic chip timing ensures accurate results, and a medical team consisting of doctors and nurses covers the entire 31 km route to ensure participant safety.

Logistics and Registration

Bib collection takes place on Saturday evening (April 18) or early Sunday morning at the Funicular station. To facilitate the point-to-point nature of the race, shuttle buses run from the finish line at Camping les 3 Vallées back to the start in Lourdes between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM. Showers are available at the finish line for all competitors. With over 15 successful editions and a cap of under 600 total participants, the race offers an intimate but highly competitive atmosphere, supported by more than 80 dedicated volunteers.