Discover the top Chamonix walking trails and routes
If you come to Chamonix in the summer (and we think you really should), the chances are you'll want to get your walking boots on and go for a ramble or two.
Find loads of top tips and local insights in our Chamonix Hiking & Walking Guide.
Chamonix is unique with some of its trails, in particular the 'Balcon' walks; two 'petit' and two 'grand'. They are all beautiful panoramic promenades with an almost constant level of altitude and can be done partially or in their entirety. The 'Petit Balcons' run around the lower valley floor (approx altitude 1,200m) and are named "Nord" (north) and "Sud" (south) after their directional compass bearing.
This beautiful lake (which is often snow covered) offers an extraordinary vantage point over the Chamonix Aiguilles, Les Drus and the Verte.
This short hike starts at a lake and ends at an animal park, with plenty to see along the way.
A shaded classic trail.
This section of the Grand Balcon Sud can be done in either direction and has the benefit of lifts at either end, saving your calves on the way up and your knees on the way down.
Skirting along the north side of the valley, both the access and departure points of this walk are served by the lift system, making it one of the most accessible high altitude hikes.
Situated 150m above the bottom of the Mer de Glace, the Refuge du Chapeau has been a classic stop for tourists for over a century.
Starting and finishing at the animal park in Merlet this full day walk takes in the summit of the Aiguillette des Houches, Refuge Bellachat and offers a magnificent panorama of the Mont Blanc Massif.
This beautiful walk takes you up to the Mer de Glace and the Montenvers station. For those that prefer downhill walks you can take the train up and trek back down, or you can do a complete loop lasting approximately five hours.
With having spent a few years exploring the trails of this valley, I thought I knew all the accessible routes so when someone mentioned one I’d never heard of I was excited to check it out - even more so when I was promised a good lunch along the way.
A short hike suitable for families with children of walking age.
The Grand Balcons walks are the big brothers of the Petit Balcons previously described. These two higher altitude walks are amongst the most popular in the valley, offering some of the best and most easily accessed views of the surrounding mountain ranges. (Expect them to be pretty busy during July and August).
Getting around the Chamonix Valley and up into its high mountain terrain is made easy thanks to the extensive transportation network available. The local buses that take you to all the main gondola and cable car stations are free with a Carte d’Hôte (guest card). You can get your card on arrival at your rental accommodation or hotel.
Getting around the Chamonix Valley and up into its high mountain terrain is made easy thanks to the extensive transportation network available. The local buses that take you to all the main gondola and cable car stations are free with a carte d’hôte (guest card). You can get your card on arrival at your accommodation.
Leaving the village of Les Bossons this walk takes you through the forest to a viewing area situated a stone's throw away from the impressive Glacier des Bossons.
Cascade du Dard is a dramatic waterfall tucked away in the forest beneath the Aiguille du Midi.
When the weather is beautiful here in Chamonix it seems a shame to not go out and explore the surrounding mountains. This is a great half-day hike that sees you leave the town and head up towards Montenvers through the forest.