Top Hiking Trails in Chamonix Summer
Chamonix Mont Blanc valley
Top summer hikes in Chamonix
Summer is undoubtedly the best season for exploring the Chamonix Valley on foot. From June to September, the mountain trails reveal their full beauty: flowery alpine pastures, high-altitude lakes, breathtaking panoramas of the Mont Blanc massif, and mountain huts perched in the heart of unspoiled nature. It's not uncommon to spot ibex in the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve.
Thanks to the ski lifts and an extensive network of marked trails, everyone can find a hike suited to their level, from a simple family stroll to sporty routes offering spectacular views of glaciers and the highest peaks of the Alps.
Even in summer, the mountains remain a demanding environment. It is important to check the weather forecast before each outing, to bring enough water, good shoes, and clothing suitable for temperature variations. Some routes may also have technical sections or be subject to temporary restrictions.
To prepare for your hikes, feel free to consult the updated information from the Chamonix Guides Company and the Chamoniarde (http://www.chamoniarde.com/) , as well as the numerous guides and maps available in our apartments. I also recommend using the free Géoportail app to easily locate yourself on the trails.
To help you plan your summer holiday, I've selected the most beautiful hikes in the Chamonix Valley and around Vallorcine (I've limited it to 20...), along with my local tips to help you make the most of your stay. You'll have a hard time choosing!
While staying in Vallorcine in my apartments You benefit from privileged access to the most beautiful trails in the valley while enjoying a calm and preserved environment, far from the hustle and bustle of the center of Chamonix.
- Lac Blanc 💙
Lac Blanc is the iconic hike of the Chamonix Valley. Its exceptional panorama of the Mont Blanc massif and its reflections in the lake's waters make it one of the most photographed sites in the Alps. A must-do for any first-time visit to the valley.
I recommend leaving early to avoid the crowds.
There are many variations, I prefer the start at the Col des Montets.
Difficulty level: Intermediate (Flégère cable car) to difficult depending on the variations
Distance: 7 km
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
Elevation gain: 500 m to 1200 m
Altitude: 2,352 m
- Chéserys Lakes 💙
Located just below Lac Blanc, the Lacs des Chéserys offer an enchanting setting with several small high-altitude lakes surrounded by alpine meadows. The reflections of Mont Blanc are often even more spectacular here than at Lac Blanc. Numerous routes are possible. I recommend starting from the Col des Montets!
Difficulty level: Intermediate (Flégère cable car) to difficult
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Elevation gain: 450 m to 1000 m
Altitude: 2,211 m
- The Aiguillette d'Argentière ⭐
The trail starts near the Trélechamp-le-Haut car park. It passes along the side of a large slab of rock, then continues to Plan de la Grange. Entering a beautiful larch forest, it climbs diagonally to 1710m. You are now in the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve (dogs prohibited), and with luck you might spot some ibex.
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance: 8 km
Round trip duration: 3 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +500 m / -500 m
Altitude: from 1420 m to 1900 m
- Loriaz Refuge ⭐
Accessible directly from Vallorcine, this hike leads to one of the most beautiful natural viewpoints in the valley. The refuge overlooks a vast alpine pasture facing the Mont Blanc massif and offers an authentic atmosphere where ibex are often seen.
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours
Elevation gain: 650 m
Altitude: 2,020 m
- La Pierre à Bérard 👍
A very pleasant hike along the Eau de Bérard river, partly through larch woods: on the edge of the Vallon de Bérard Nature Reserve. Upon arrival: mountain refuge with food service. The trail starts at the hamlet of Le Buet in Vallorcine and leads to the Refuge de la Pierre in Bérard.
Difficulty level: Difficult
Distance: 10.4 km
Round trip duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Elevation gain/loss: +600 m / -600 m
Altitude: from 1300 m to 1900 m
- Aiguillette des Posettes and Tête de Balme⭐
This panoramic hike is one of the most beautiful accessible from Vallorcine. From its summit, the 360° view extends to Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges, the Buet, and the Swiss mountains. A true natural viewpoint.
Balme Alpine Pastures: excellent refreshment stand, I recommend it!
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Distance: 6 km to 8 km
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Elevation gain: 450 m to 650 m
Altitude: 2,201 m
- Stroll around the main town of Vallorcine ⛪
A lovely historical walk to immerse yourself in the heart of the hamlets of Vallorcine. Loop from the church of Vallorcine to the hamlet of Buet following the old stagecoach road (numerous paths to discover along the railway or the river).
Difficulty level: easy (valley bottom)
Distance: 4.5 km
One-way journey time: 2 hours
Elevation gain: +90 m
Altitude: 1300 meters
- Bérard Waterfall ⭐
This refreshing walk leads through a beautiful forest before reaching a spectacular waterfall nestled in the gorge. Very accessible, it makes for an excellent family outing on hot summer days.
Take a break at the refreshment stand, it's excellent!
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance: 4 km
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Elevation gain: 250 m
Altitude: 1,550 m
- Albert 1er Refuge 🧊
Starting from the village of Le Tour, this hike immerses walkers in the atmosphere of the high mountains. The trail offers remarkable views of the Tour glacier and leads to a legendary refuge frequented by mountaineers.
Some sections are tricky, so be careful if you are prone to vertigo!
Difficulty level: Difficult to athletic
Distance: 11 km
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Elevation gain: 850 m
Altitude: 2,702 m
- Large South-facing balcony 🏔️
The Grand Balcon Sud is an exceptional panoramic route overlooking the entire Chamonix valley. The trail offers a permanent view of the Mont Blanc massif and allows you to connect several iconic areas of the valley.
Difficulty level: Easy to intermediate
Distance: 8 to 12 km
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Elevation gain: 300 m
Altitude: Between 1,800 m and 2,200 m
- Large North Balcony ⭐
Less frequented than its southern counterpart, this route offers a different perspective on the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Its wilder atmosphere will appeal to hikers seeking tranquility. It's possible to connect the Montenvers train station to the Plan de l'Aiguille refuge (I personally prefer this direction).
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Distance: 10 km
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Elevation gain: 600 m
Altitude: 1,900 m
- Cornu Lake and the Black Lakes⭐
Nestled in a spectacular rocky landscape in the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges, Lac Cornu is a popular destination for experienced hikers. Its wild surroundings and views of the Mont Blanc massif make it well worth the effort.
Difficulty level: Athletic
Distance: 10 km
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Elevation gain: 800 m
Altitude: 2,276 m
- Le Brévent 🚠
Directly overlooking Chamonix, the Brévent is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Mont Blanc massif. From its summit, the panorama of the glaciers and the great peaks is simply spectacular.
Difficulty level: Intermediate to difficult
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Elevation gain: 600 m
Altitude: 2,525 m
- Forbes Signal 🚋
Accessible from the Montenvers train, this easy hike offers magnificent views of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Drus peaks, and the Grandes Jorasses mountains. An excellent choice for enjoying a breathtaking panorama without excessive effort.
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance: 5 km
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Elevation gain: 250 m
Altitude: 2,198 m
- Small South-facing balcony 🏔️
This accessible route connects several villages in the valley, winding through forests and clearings. Ideal for families, it offers magnificent views of the Mont Blanc massif without requiring any significant elevation gain.
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
Elevation gain: 250 m
Altitude: 1,300 m
- The Hat Chalet 👌
Viewpoint overlooking the Mer de Glace, the Arveyron Gorges, the Aiguilles and the Chamonix Valley. Departure from the SNCF train station in Les Tines (other routes are possible from Les Bois or Le Lavancher).
A wonderful and delightful time at the Chapeau refreshment stand (open depending on the weather), I highly recommend it!
Difficulty level: Medium (balcony)
Distance: 5.3 km
Round trip duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
Elevation gain/loss: +500 m / -500 m
Altitude: from 1050 m to 1600 m
- Rochers des Mottets 👍
Stunning viewpoint overlooking the Aiguilles des Drus. Amazing site of red rocks. View of the Mer de Glace glacier. Starting point: Les Bois hamlet (or Chamonix Les Planards).
Superb refreshment stand with light meals: I recommend it!
Difficulty level: Medium (balcony)
Distance: 8 km
Round trip duration: 3 hours
Elevation gain: +600 m / -600 m
Altitude: from 1050 m to 1650 m
- Lake Émosson: Dinosaur tracks 💙
Located in Switzerland, a few kilometers from Vallorcine, Lake Émosson captivates visitors with its turquoise waters and magnificent surroundings. This excursion also offers the opportunity to discover the famous dinosaur footprints, over 240 million years old.
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Distance: 10 km
Duration: 5 hours
Elevation gain: 500 m
Altitude: 2400 m
- Junction Hike 🧊
A classic hike in the Chamonix valley. Breathtaking views of the Bossons and Taconnaz glaciers. Recommended for expert hikers only, with challenging sections and significant elevation gain.
Difficulty level: Very difficult
Distance: 13 km
Round trip duration: 7 to 8 hours
Elevation gain: 1400 m
Altitude: 2,589 m
- Green Lake 💚
An easy hike leading to Lac Vert, a magical spot accessible from Servoz. The forest trail offers a pleasant walk with the option to circle the lake or extend the hike to superb viewpoints such as Plaine-Joux.
Difficulty level: easy (valley bottom)
Distance: 3.8 km
Round trip duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Elevation gain/loss: +200 m / -200 m
Altitude: from 1082 m to 1270 m
Chez Charles**** | Vallorcine Viachamonix
Apartment rentals**** in Vallorcine in a residence with indoor pool, sauna and hammam, at the Les Portes Du Mont Blanc Resort