The Yak High Route

 

This decidedly alpine route — which alone explains the change of date for the event — will take runners through three cantons, into some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Vaud, Bernese and Valais Alps.

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From Les Diablerets, the course first climbs towards Isenau and its lush alpine pastures. The playful trails of the area and the sweeping panoramas will quickly put both legs and eyes to work. As for the feared “Palette Wall”, rest assured: it will be exceptionally left out in this format… no need to send it a postcard.

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After a first aid station in Isenau, the route drops towards Arnesee via the Col de Voré. Participants will find a second aid station set in a postcard‑perfect landscape of crystal‑clear waters and high‑altitude meadows.

A new dose of positive — and negative — elevation then leads runners to the typical village of Gsteig, where the third aid station awaits. More importantly, it marks the gateway to the wildest and most alpine part of the adventure.

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The course then heads towards the Sanetsch Pass and its fourth aid station, before crossing the fascinating limestone pavements of Prarochet, passing the emblematic Quille du Diable, and stepping onto the not‑so‑eternal snows of the Tsanfleuron Glacier. A succession of life‑size postcards guiding participants all the way to the Cabane des Diablerets and the fifth aid station.

The journey continues to the sound of marmots and cowbells, with the region’s towering limestone peaks as a backdrop. Shortly before the spectacular Oldenbach waterfall, everyone will be able to appreciate the distance already covered before tackling the climb to the Col du Pillon. Don’t worry: the slope is gentle enough to keep enjoying the scenery… or to reconsider the wisdom of having signed up.

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A final aid station awaits runners just before the Col du Pillon, followed by the last descent to Les Diablerets. Skirting the imposing massif, they will enjoy the majestic Dar waterfall — the final jewel of a route as demanding as it is unforgettable.

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The Yak High Route : 3 Swiss cantons, a mountain of memories, and a few sore muscles on the house.