Trail des chemins oubliés

Trail des Chemins Oubliés is a 70 km mountain trail from Gavarnie to the sanctuary of Lourdes in the Hautes-Pyrénées. It has 3000 m of climbing, runs in semi-autonomy, and limits participation to 200 places. The race is timed, but without a podium or ranking, emphasizing completion of the journey over competition. The route connects two significant Pyrenean locations, giving runners 12 hours to travel from Gavarnie to Lourdes. Its organizers created it as a straightforward alternative to the costly, equipment-focused, performance-driven aspects of contemporary trail running. The course follows old paths and crossing points, featuring chapels, local producers, and mountain and forest sections. Aid stations offer only local products and spring water, with the event prioritizing zero waste and respect for the region.