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Chamonix valley MTB trails

Mountain biking trails for all levels in the Chamonix valley from leisurely rider to seasoned expert

Location
Chamonix
Imprint
Updated

Whatever your level of riding there are great trails along the valley floor that you can ride without needing a lift pass.

River path Petit Balcon Sud or Nord

Following the river path upstream you can enjoy the low level trails of the Petit Balcon Sud or Petit Balcon Nord. Both trails are well signposted and accessible without having to take any lifts or deal with bad weather higher in the hills. 

These trails can still be fairly technical with rocks and rooty sections, but it’s never too sustained so you can hop off and walk those bits if you'd prefer. 

A circuit of both Balcons is well worth it, at 16km in length it takes around three to four hours to complete the loop. 

Check out the routes on the Chamonix Mountain Bike Trails maps in the link above.

Planards 4x4

If you're staying in the centre of Chamonix and fancy a lung and leg-busting climb, then you can head up the 4x4 track close to Les Planards and the summer luge. 

You follow the trail into the woods and up and up in the direction of the Mer de Glace where you'll get a great view. The last 200m are not too easy on a bike, so push along until you get to the view and the buvette where you can buy some hard earned refreshments before turning round to enjoy the descent. 

Alternatively take the earlier hair pin off the 4x4 trail up to your right and on to the Caillet chalet. From here it's technical downhill all the way, just don't forget to look out for hikers and runners who also like this route.

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Find out all about what is happening in the Chamonix valley and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.

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Chamonix hosts a wide range of sporting events throughout the year. The biggest ones include the Mont Blanc Marathon in June and the UTMB trail running race in August. In March, the Unlimited Festival brings ravers to the mountains while Musilac Mont Blanc takes place a month later. At the end of July, the Cosmo Jazz Festival hosts concerts all around the valley.

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