The most beautiful hikes to do in Chamonix

Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Chamonix has long attracted mountain lovers. While the valley is world-renowned for its mountaineering achievements and legendary peaks like Mont Blanc and the Drus, it remains a fantastic playground for hikers. Whether you're a casual walker, a photographer seeking breathtaking landscapes, or a seasoned hiker, the trails around Chamonix have something to offer everyone. And you don't need to tackle the most technically challenging summits to enjoy magnificent panoramas. Here's a selection of varied hikes to discover Chamonix in a different way, at your own pace.

1. Lac Blanc: a classic that's worth the detour

It's impossible to talk about hiking in Chamonix without mentioning Lac Blanc. Located at an altitude of 2,352 meters, this glacial lake offers a perfect reflection of the Aiguilles Rouges and the Mont Blanc massif in the background. Accessible from La Flégère or the Col des Montets, the route can be adapted to suit your desired level of elevation gain.

The easiest starting point is the Flégère cable car (open in summer), followed by a well-marked trail. Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike one way. If you start from the Col des Montets, the trail is slightly longer, with about 900 meters of elevation gain. Reaching the lake, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon, is truly worth the effort.

👉 Tip: In summer, the trail is very busy. For more peace and quiet, opt for off-peak hours or the September season.

2. The Grand South Balcony: a permanent panorama

The Grand Balcon Sud connects two iconic sites in Chamonix: La Flégère and Plan Praz. This horizontal traverse allows you to walk facing the Mont Blanc massif, with an almost constant view of the glaciers, the Aiguilles de Chamonix and the valley below.

The hike can be done in either direction, but many prefer to start at La Flégère and finish at Plan Praz. The well-marked trail doesn't present any major difficulties if you're comfortable walking on stones and don't mind a few steps, but it does require a minimum level of fitness: allow between 2.5 and 3.5 hours for the hike, without any significant ascents or descents.

It's a great option for those who want to feast their eyes without accumulating vertical kilometers.

3. The Chéserys Lakes: an alternative to Lac Blanc

Just below Lac Blanc, the Chéserys lakes are well worth a detour – or even a dedicated hike. Less frequented, these small mountain lakes are nestled like pearls in a rocky valley. On a calm day, the reflections of Mont Blanc in the water make for superb photos.

The hike can begin from the Col des Montets, with a steady climb to the upper lake. The round trip takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with an elevation gain of around 700 meters. The terrain is rocky, as is typical in the Aiguilles Rouges, but without any technical sections.

👉 Photo tip: the lakes face west. The best light arrives at the end of the day, especially for reflections.

4. The Pierre à Bérard refuge: a wild atmosphere

Looking to get off the beaten track while staying close to the valley? Head to the Bérard Valley, accessible from the village of Le Buet. The trail follows a river cascading down through a pristine alpine setting, dotted with waterfalls and scree slopes.

The goal is the Pierre à Bérard refuge, perched at 1,924 meters. The ascent takes approximately 2.5 hours, following a path that winds gently through the trees and then across alpine pastures. It's a route suitable for the whole family, with a beautiful reward at the end: the refuge's terrace, facing the granite peaks of the Aiguilles Rouges massif.

This corner of the valley is a little off the beaten track. Ideal if you're looking for peace and quiet and a true mountain atmosphere.

Tip: For the more adventurous, you can sleep at the refuge (remember to book!) and attempt the ascent of Mont-Buet (3096m!) the next day.

5. The Bossons Glacier: between history and nature

The Bossons Glacier descends directly from the summit of Mont Blanc, making it one of the most spectacular glaciers in the valley. A hike allows you to get quite close to it, via the glacier chalet.

From the Bossons parking area, a trail climbs through the forest for about an hour to the chalet. The ascent is a bit steep, but short. Upon reaching the viewpoint, the view of the glacier's seracs is breathtaking. Information panels also tell the story of the glacier, its evolution, and the airplane fragments discovered in the ice over the years.

For the most motivated, it is possible to continue to the site known as the Junction (this involves a long alpine hike, reserved for experienced hikers).

Tip: You can also ask us for a hike to the terminal tongue of the glacier with one of our guides who will tell you the history of glaciology.

6. The Signal Forbes: the balcony of Montenvers

Another great hiking option with glacier views is the climb to Signal Forbes. The starting point is at Montenvers station (accessible on foot or by the little red train from Chamonix).

From the train station, a path winds its way up to the Signal Forbes viewpoint at 2,198 meters. In just under an hour, you'll reach a panoramic view of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Grandes Jorasses peaks, and the Mont Blanc massif. The spot is peaceful, perched above the tourist bustle of the station, and is well worth a stop.

You can then walk back down to Chamonix via the Plan de l'Aiguille trails, or take the train back down.

Tip: A sunset up there will undoubtedly be one of your most beautiful mountain memories! But it's not easy to earn: You'll have to walk back down to Chamonix at night.

7. The Tour du Mont-Blanc (TMB): for the most adventurous

The Tour du Mont-Blanc needs no introduction; this long-distance hiking route makes a complete circuit of the massif of the same name, crossing France, Italy and Switzerland.

If you are fit and have a week to ten days ahead of you, this is a great way to discover the alpine landscapes in all their facets.

But it's also possible to do just a section of the tour starting from Chamonix. For example, the stage between the Col de Balme and the Col de la Forclaz is superb, with vast panoramas and a wonderful immersion in the atmosphere of the mountain huts.

The TMB remains an adventure in itself, but it can also be enjoyed in small pieces.

8. The Brévent loop via the Brévent pass

The summit of Brévent offers a magnificent view of Mont Blanc, accessible by cable car from Chamonix. For a change of pace, a loop hike is possible, ascending via the Col du Brévent from Planpraz (1,999 m) and descending via the Bellachat refuge trail, continuing on foot back to Chamonix.

This hike requires a good level of fitness, with approximately 600 meters of elevation gain and 1,500 meters of descent, but it remains within reach of many athletic hikers. The landscape is rugged and rocky, with constant views of the mountain range. Upon reaching the summit (2,525 m), the valley unfolds beneath you.

👉 Tip: As the descent is technical, it is possible to do this hike in the opposite direction, and descend by cable car from Brévent.

A few tips before you leave

• Equipment : Even in summer, the weather changes quickly in the mountains. Always bring a warm layer, a waterproof jacket, water, and snacks.

• Safety : The trails are well-marked, but a map (or GPS app) is still useful. Always tell someone your route if you are going alone.

• Popularity : Chamonix attracts large crowds in the summer. If you're looking for peace and quiet, set off early in the morning, or explore lesser-known routes like the Bérard Valley.

• Guided hikes : If you wish to explore other more secluded spots or for a more memorable experience, use our services and we will gladly guide you on our trails, while telling you the history of these mountains!