Trail des Verriers

Running at Dusk in the Vosges du Nord

Since 2016, the Trail des Verriers has brought together over 200 runners on the forest trails of Goetzenbruck, in the heart of the Land of Glass and Crystal, every first Saturday of May. Organized by the Foyer rural de Goetzenbruck, this semi-night trail offers a unique running experience: late afternoon and evening starts allow participants to run in the fading light of dusk, headlamp on.

Courses for All Levels

The Trail des Verriers offers several formats adapted to all runner profiles:

26 km Trail

The main 26 km course with 900 meters of positive elevation gain is a true technical and physical challenge. The route follows forest trails and hiking paths between Goetzenbruck, Meisenthal, and Soucht, crossing wooded and hilly landscapes typical of the Vosges du Nord. Start at 7 PM.

12 km Trail

A 12 km course with 448 meters of positive elevation gain offers a more accessible alternative while retaining the technical and semi-night character of the event. Start at 7:30 PM.

26 km Relay

The 26 km course can also be run as a two-person relay, allowing participants to share the effort and experience the adventure as a team.

Children's Races

Events adapted for younger participants are organized in the early evening from 6 PM:

• 700 m for ages 6-9
• 1,300 m for ages 10-12
• 2,600 m for ages 13-15

A Tribute to the Glassmaking Heritage

The name “Trail des Verriers” pays homage to the region’s glassmaking tradition. Goetzenbruck and its neighboring towns — Meisenthal (famous for its glass Christmas baubles) and Soucht — form the Land of Glass and Crystal, a region marked by centuries of glass industry. The trails used by the runners cross these landscapes where nature and industrial heritage blend harmoniously.

Organization and Volunteering

The Trail des Verriers is driven by the Foyer rural de Goetzenbruck and a team of volunteers from several local associations: Club Vosgien, Officine du Gueux, and the youth of Saint-Louis (CAAP’S). Each edition mobilizes dozens of volunteers to ensure the safety, refreshments, and marking of the course.

Supervision and Safety

The trail is supervised by first aid stations located along the course, mountain bike escorts, and a medical team. Refreshment points and aid stations on the course support the runners throughout their effort.