If you've ridden all the Chamonix trails, you can also access a large number of other bike parks and trails, some just a short drive away from Chamonix.
Mountain biking accessible from Chamonix
Exploring some other MTB areas located not too far from the centre of Chamonix
Verbier
When you mention “Verbier” to most riders, they think of the excellent bike park and DH trails, but there’s much more to Verbier than just 200mm travel freeride bikes.
The area has some incredible singletrack trails for all abilities accessed from the Le Chable-Verbier-Ruinettes cable car. What’s more, the cable car runs for a longer period than most resorts, so you can ride lift-accessed trails from the start of June to the end of October if the weather allows, and all just one hour from Chamonix.
Pila
Pila used to host the UCI DH World Cup, currently hosts the IXS downhill cup and is one of the best bike parks around. Perfect berms (think Sam Hill corner-worthy), Italian coffee and the 21B trail. Pila is a must for any holiday to the Alps.
Portes du Soleil
Possibly the most famous bike area in the Alps, the Portes du Soleil and in particular Les Gets, Morzine and Chatel, have a reputation for the biggest linked riding areas and most extensive man made trails.
At a little over one hour's drive from Chamonix, the area gives you the opportunity to ride somewhere set up for bikers, by bikers, on as many prepared jumps, berms and drops as you can manage. A very different feel from Chamonix, but a change can be as good as a rest.
Grand Massif
Situated between Chamonix and the Portes du Soleil, the Grand Massif stations of Flaine, Samoens and Les Carroz also have an ambience that sits between their two better known neighbours.
Like the Portes du Soleil, there are some excellent bike parks and the network of lifts links you quickly and efficiently around a huge area with little need for pedalling, but like Chamonix you’ll miss out on the best riding if you don’t head off with a map and a bike you can take up as well as downhill.
Mountain bikers are actively welcomed to the area, but you’ll still have the trails mostly to yourself if you leave the bike parks. For more details take a look at their website.
Saleve
If you’ve headed to the Haute Savoie ski areas from Geneva airport, then you’ve likely gone past the massive limestone cliffs of La Saleve and seen its cable car rising up above the motorway on the outskirts of Geneva.
You may not realise though that the cable car takes bikes and a number of excellent DH trails wind their unlikely way down from the top. The trails are official and marked by small bike symbols, however it's not as easy to navigate as most ski station areas and you’ll need to be prepared to get a little lost and follow clues such as lots of tyre marks on the ground to find the best trails. What’s more, there are no green or blue options here, so novice riders will probably feel a little out of their depth. More advanced riders can bike here through the winter should another day of skiing not interest them.
Dorenaz
Hidden away just past Martigny, about one hour from Chamonix, is the small Swiss village of Dorenaz, and about 670m above it is the even smaller village of Champex.
As it’s a long way up by road, a little cable car was installed to ferry passengers and goods between the two villages. Fortunately for us, it also carries mountain bikes - underneath! Local riders have built a DH track starting about 200m up the road from the cable car station which has a fearsome reputation and is used by several DH teams for their winter testing and training due to the lifts running all year.
If you like the Vallorcine DH track, then you’ll like Dorenaz, but be warned, this is a track that takes no prisoners.
La Thuile
In the winter, many Chamonix skiers head through the Mont Blanc tunnel to ski Courmayeur and enjoy fine Italian food and drink.
Less common though is to make the one hour journey from Chamonix to La Thuile, just beyond Courmayeur, in the summer. This is a shame as La Thuile has built possibly the best network of natural feeling bike trails in the Alps from its two main chairlifts.
If you're looking for well groomed jumps and berms then this may not be the place for you but if you like Chamonix’s natural trails and want something with a bit more flow, then you should definitely visit. What’s more, you can stop for an Italian coffee on every lap!
What to see
Sights in Chamonix
See all Sights in Chamonix-
Maison de la Memoire et du Patrimoine, Chamonix- Centre
A modern museum dedicated to the history of Chamonix located on its oldest street
This museum houses exhibits of Chamonix's past.
-
Alpine museum
Musée Alpin de Chamonix currently closed for renovations, planned reopening: June 2026
The museum is currently closed for renovations
-
Crystal museum
Musée des Cristaux has a collection of minerals and crystals collected in the valley
Discover the minerals from the Mont Blanc Valley, famous throughout the world, and learn more about the art of mountaineering.
-
Municipal library
Public library and exhibitions in central Chamonix with great kids section
The main central library for Chamonix which houses the occasional exhibition and lectures.
-
Mer de Glace and Montenvers cog railway
Everything you need to know about a visit to this iconic glacier and railway
No trip to Chamonix should be complete without a visit to the legendary Mer de Glace, the longest and arguably the most impressive glacier in the Chamonix valley. It is also the largest glacier in France.
-
La Flégère, Chamonix - Le Praz
Cable car and chairlift giving access to lots of great hiking trails and Via Ferrata
In summer the cable car at Flégère and the Index chairlift operate, taking you up to an altitude of 1,894m and then on to 2,396m at the top of the Index.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Chamonix
See all Restaurants in Chamonix-
Big Mountain Basecamp Bar & Restaurant
Local craft beer, artisan pizzas and epic mountain views in the heart of Chamonix
Whether you’re hungry or thirsty after a day in the mountains, Big Mountain Basecamp has you covered. Come for fresh craft beer, a relaxed restaurant atmosphere, an on-site micro-brewery, a large sunny terrace, shady beer garden and a take-out beer shop.
-
Pointe Isabelle Bar and Bistro Restaurant
Central hotel with a stylish restaurant and bar popular with locals and holidaymakers alike
This tastefully refurbished restaurant and bar are right in the heart of Chamonix on the popular Avenue Michel Croz, close to the train station.
-
Bighorn Bistro Restaurant
American cuisine, craft beers, cocktails, and homemade baked goods
Bighorn Bistro in Chamonix Sud is known for its homemade American-style comfort food, from stacked burgers to freshly baked desserts. You can pair your meal with a craft beer or one of their creative cocktails. With friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a favourite with both locals and visitors, offering generous portions, warm hospitality, and a menu that consistently delivers hearty, satisfying flavours after a day on the mountain or during a relaxed evening out.
-
La Fruitière Restaurant
Gourmet restaurant next to the Savoy nursery ski area that provides a welcoming atmosphere
This elegant restaurant is situated in La Folie Douce Hotel.
-
The Dainty Pizza Restaurant
Good value sourdough pizza in the Neapolitan tradition, take away or delivered
Using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, these pizzas are made with a sourdough crust prepared from mother yeast, two flours, sea salt, water and extra virgin olive oil, then left to rise for at least 72 hours for light, easy digestion. They use San Marzano and Yellow Datterini tomatoes and the freshest fior di latte mozzarella. With sustainability in mind, only a couple of organic meat options are offered, keeping the menu thoughtful and delicious.
-
Le Comptoir de Plan Praz Restaurant and Café
Café and takeaway at the Brévent mid-station, ideal for those who want a quick sit-down snack
At Le Comptoir de Plan Praz in Chamonix, the food celebrates hearty alpine tradition with a refined touch. Expect comforting dishes like rich tartiflette, savory raclette, and melted cheese fondue, perfect after a day on the slopes. Fresh-baked breads, crisp seasonal salads, and homemade desserts add balance. Ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible, offering authentic mountain flavors. Warm soups, generous meat platters and light vegetarian options ensure there’s something for every appetite and mood.
What to do
Things To Do in Chamonix
See all Things To Do in Chamonix-
Cinema VOX
English films and digital 3D equipped
Chamonix's own Cinema VOX is situated right in the centre of town, slightly tucked back on the Place Balmat (main square in the centre). There are three recently refurbished screens equipped with digital 3D projectors show the latest French and International films, as well as a number of premieres and specialist mountain-sports films.
-
Photography workshop - "L'Art du Regard"
Inspiring half-day in nature, led by an award-winning photographer
Join an award-winning photographer for a half-day course focused on improving your observation, exploring light, and developing your photographic eye. This workshop is suitable for all levels, ages, and equipment types.
-
Tandem Paragliding
Soar above the Alps: tandem paragliding adventures for every age and skill level
Discover the unforgettable sensation of flying high above the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley on a tandem paragliding adventure. Whether it’s your first time in the air or you’re craving an adrenaline-fuelled experience, each flight is designed to showcase the Alps from their most spectacular angle.
-
Guided snowshoeing
Half day or full day private guided snowshoeing walks
Off-piste snowshoe outings where you can discover the charm and serenity of the Chamonix Valley on foot.
-
Tandem paragliding
Enjoy the trip of a lifetime with these qualified tandem paragliding specialists - All year round
This company's sole activity is tandem paragliding, so they are 100 % focused on you and your flight. Their fully qualified pilots have vast experience and have done 1,000s of flight in the Chamonix Valley.
-
Guided off-piste Vallée Blanche
Experience a guided off-piste ski or snowboard adventure on the Vallée Blanche
Chamonix Mont Blanc Guides specialise in high mountain guiding, skiing and alpinism. Based in the Chamonix Valley, at the foot of the Mont Blanc range, they have all the experience and expertise to make your dream adventure become a reality.
