Over hill and dale through nature
Trail running – jogging off-road – is the trend sport at the moment and is also inspiring more and more people in Switzerland. We have collected the most important facts for you and present one of the most beautiful trail regions in Switzerland.

Just start running
Trail running is the ideal outdoor sport for anyone who finds jogging too monotonous and hiking too boring.In principle, there are no rules and apart from a pair of sturdy trail running shoes, hardly any equipment is needed. You run over hill and dale, cross-country or along existing hiking trails. Sw itzerland offers the best conditions for long trail tours, especially in the mountain areas. On a single day’s tour, you can race through forests and remote villages over high alpine passes and glaciers. The well-developed public transport network also facilitates access, even to remote valleys. As a result, you can enjoy a constant run of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes.
Val d’Hérens trail paradise
Until about 10,000 years ago, the former Hérens glacier was still cleaving its way through the side valley of the Rhone here. Today Val d’Hérens (Eringertal) in the canton of Valais with the mountain resort of Arolla is a popular starting point for alpine glacier and mountain hut hikes as well as climbing tours. With 20 marked trail running routes, however, Val d’Hérens also offers ideal conditions for running enthusiasts and has become a center for the Swiss trail community. One of the most beautiful and challenging trails leads from St-Martin to Cabane Becs de Bosson. At 2,982 meters, a breathtaking view awaits you here, which makes you forget all your efforts.
Easy navigation thanks to own app
With the “Outdoor Expériences Val d’Hérens” mobile app trail enthusiasts have access to all relevant information about the routes even when they are on the move. Whether it’s the distance, altitude or estimated running time – the data is provided in real time thanks to geolocation. A handy additional feature of the app: Places of interest along the routes, such as the pyramids of Euseigne, are automatically displayed. So you will not only reach your destination safely, but are also guaranteed the full Val d’Hérens experience.
Easy start to trail running
“The body reacts instantly to the demands of the terrain. This can feel very harmonious in one minute and totally chaotic in another,” explains Kim Strom, writer and author of “Run the Alps Switzerland: 30 Must-Do Trail Runs”. Due to the often steep routes and differences in altitude that have to be overcome, trail running is significantly more strenuous and demanding than normal jogging. For a successful start, it is therefore a good idea to take a course with experienced trail experts. Throughout Switzerland there are numerous offers to specifically train your own running technique and to gain trail experience in a group. Find out more on the Switzerland Tourism trail running website - start running now!