The Humani’Trail celebrates its 10th edition in Gstaad
Trail runners and spectators alike have something to look forward to this autumn: the Humani’Trail is arriving in Gstaad. To celebrate its tenth edition at the end of September, organisers have crafted a particularly challenging route — 100 kilometres through the cantons of Bern, Vaud, and Valais, with both the start and finish in the centre of Gstaad.

Alongside this epic challenge, two shorter runs will also take place in the Saanenland. While athletes prepare for 2025, the organisers are already looking ahead: in 2026, a new event, the Swiss Highlands Trail, will be launched in collaboration with Gstaad Saanenland Tourism, further cementing the region’s reputation as a trail running destination.

Sport and Solidarity
What makes the Humani’Trail special? Paul van der Linden is part of the organising team, and he explains: "It’s a unique encounter between the Alps and the Himalayas. The courses are 100% authentic trails, and all entry fees support charitable projects in Nepal for disadvantaged children. Over the past nine editions, more than CHF 320,000 has been raised, enabling 30 children to go to school and even funding the construction of six schools. None of this would have been possible without the runners.”

For Katrin Haldi of Gstaad Saanenland Tourism, the local connection is key:
“The Grand Raid Sherpa, the toughest of the races, starts and finishes in Gstaad. At 5am on Saturday, 26 September, nearly 250 participants will set off from the ice rink square. From there, the route leads over Eggli and Witteberg, past Arnensee to Les Diablerets, across the Sanetsch and back through Lauenen and Zwitzeregg to the finish line on the Promenade. We expect the first runners to arrive between 6 and 7pm — and we hope plenty of supporters will be there to cheer them on.”

Looking ahead to 2026: Swiss Highlands Trail
The Humani’Trail also acts as a stepping stone. In 2026, the Swiss Highlands Trail will launch, a new three-day trail running festival designed to attract runners from across Switzerland. With distances suitable for all levels, it aims to infuse fresh energy into the region during the quieter September weeks, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and tourism operators.

“It’s about more than just sport,” says van der Linden. “It’s about sharing our landscapes, building community, and giving something back, here in the Alps, and in the Himalayas.”

Where to cheer them on
Three of this year’s eight Humani’Trail races pass through the Saanenland. Spectators are warmly encouraged to line the courses and welcome the runners back in Gstaad.

Grand Raid Sherpa Trail
100 km | 6200m elevation gain
???? Start: Friday, 26 September, 5:00 am, Ice Rink Square, Gstaad
Route via Arnensee, Les Diablerets, Sanetsch Pass, Lauenensee, Hornfluh

Bull Trail
27 km | 1600m elevation gain
???? Start: Saturday, 27 September, 9:30 am, Ice Rink Square, Gstaad
Route via Turbachtal, Zwitzeregg, Hornberg, Horneggli

Saani Trail
14 km | 900m elevation gain
???? Start: Saturday, 27 September, 10:30 am, Ice Rink Square, Gstaad
Route via Hornberg, Horneggli