History
A race rooted in military history
The origins of the Patrouille des Glaciers go back to the Second World War (1939–1945). Mountain Brigade 10 was ready for its mission: to defend the southwestern part of the Swiss Alps.
1943
Birth of the Patrouille des Glaciers
The origins of the Patrouille des Glaciers go back to the Second World War (1939–1945). Mountain Brigade 10 was ready for its mission: to defend the southwestern part of the Swiss Alps. The idea of the PdG took shape just before the outbreak of war: two captains of the brigade, Roger Bonvin (future Federal Councillor) and Rodolphe Tissières (future founder of Téléverbier SA), were the initiators. The troops had to prove their operational readiness through a very special kind of patrol race. The chosen route, called the “Haute Route”, connected ZERMATT to VERBIER in a single stage. The first edition took place in April 1943 – the Patrouille des Glaciers was officially born.
Official creation of the Patrouille des Glaciers
1949
Fatal accident and interruption
Unfortunately, in the spring of 1949, during the third edition, a military patrol disappeared into a crevasse on the Mont Miné glacier between ZERMATT and AROLLA. They were only found eight days later. This tragic event shocked the mountain regions and led to the immediate ban of the race by the Federal Military Department. This ban lasted for over 30 years.
A fatal accident leads to a 30-year suspension of the race
1983
Resumption of the race
In 1983, the concept of the Patrouille des Glaciers was revived by Corps Commander Roger Mabillard. The organization was entrusted to Adrien Tschumy, commander of Mountain Division 10. The race resumed during the night of April 5 to 6, 1984. Around 187 patrols of three people each started from ZERMATT and AROLLA to VERBIER. Particular attention was given to safety, ensured by the army—a responsibility still upheld today.
The race returns with stronger safety, led by the Swiss Army
1986
First women’s patrols
Starting in 1986, the Patrouille des Glaciers opened to the participation of women’s patrols. This change marked an important step towards greater inclusivity in this high-level military and alpine competition.
First women’s patrols take part in the race
2020
Growth and pandemic
In 2020, the race had to be suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But in 2022, it reached its maximum size, confirming its growing popularity. It has also repeatedly hosted the Ski Mountaineering World Championships. The collaboration between the Swiss Army and the Patrouille des Glaciers Foundation ensures the sustainability of this iconic event for years to come.
Cancelled in 2020 due to COVID, record participation in 2022
