Trail des Lavoirs de la Vallée de Chevreuse

The Trail des Lavoirs 2026 is a highly popular trail running event scheduled for Sunday, May 10, 2026, in Chevreuse, France. Located just 30 km from Paris, the race takes place within the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. The event is named after the historic washhouses (lavoirs) that runners pass along the route, offering a unique blend of athletic challenge and rural heritage. Starting and finishing at the Château de la Madeleine, the course is known for its technical forest paths, the scenic passage through the Domain of Dampierre, and a challenging final climb back to the castle.

Chevreuse is a historic town in the Yvelines department with a population of approximately 5,600 residents. The area serves as a gateway to one of the most preserved natural regions near the capital, attracting thousands of hikers and cyclists weekly. The demographic profile is primarily French (approx. 94%), characterized by a high proportion of executives and professionals, with a median household income of roughly €35,000 per year. Geographically, the trails weave through the Yvette River valley, featuring steep limestone slopes, humid undergrowth, and medieval architectural landmarks. The climate in early May is typically mild, with temperatures ranging between 8°C and 21°C, though shaded valleys can remain cool and forest paths can be surprisingly muddy depending on recent spring rainfall.

Registration for the 2026 edition is currently marked as Sold Out on major platforms like KerRun, reflecting the event's massive popularity among Île-de-France runners. Organized by the Association Route des 4 Châteaux, the event prides itself on its eco-responsible approach, requiring participants to be self-sufficient for water as part of a "zero-waste" initiative. The race village at the Château de la Madeleine provides a festive finish line with local refreshments and views overlooking the valley. For those who secured a bib, technical tools like pace calculators and performance simulators are available on the followmysport.com portal to help prepare for the "Madeleine climb" at the race's conclusion.