Altitudes and lifts

What activities can you enjoy at altitude in Chamonix?

Thanks to its modern ski lifts, Chamonix offers privileged access to spectacular panoramas and a multitude of high-altitude activities. Summer and winter alike, the valley's peaks are easily accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the mountains to their heart's content. Whether you're a hiker, a snowboard enthusiast, a photographer or simply a contemplative traveler, our cable cars and gondolas open the doors to a grandiose alpine universe.

The lifts efficiently link the different areas of the valley: le Brévent, la Flégère, les Grands Montets in Argentière, the Les Houches ski area, and the Col de Balme in Vallorcine. Each site reveals a unique facet of the Mont-Blanc massif and offers an exceptional setting for outdoor activities.

Panoramic hikes for all levels

The ski lifts provide rapid access to the most beautiful hiking trails. From the top of the Brévent or Flégère lifts, the itineraries offer breathtaking views of the glaciers and surrounding peaks. Suitable for all levels of ability, the trails take in flower-filled alpine meadows, high-altitude lakes and larch forests. Families will appreciate the walks accessible from the arrival stations, while more experienced hikers will enjoy the more technical circuits.

At Les Houches, the high-altitude trails reveal a generous natural environment and unique views over the valley. In Argentière, the itineraries around the Grands Montets offer an authentic alpine ambience. Vallorcine, wilder and more unspoilt, offers quiet trails along pastures and torrents, perfect for a getaway from the crowds.

Skiing, snowboarding

In winter, Chamonix's ski lifts become the departure point for legendary ski areas. From the legendary off-piste runs of Les Grands Montets to the family-friendly slopes of Les Houches, the valley has something for everyone. Le Brévent and La Flégère offer sunny slopes with breathtaking views of Mont-Blanc, while the Balme ski area - shared by Argentière and Vallorcine - stands out for its vast open spaces and varied descents.

Snowboarders will appreciate the freestyle zones and freeride itineraries, while beginners will find suitable slopes and schools for learning in complete safety. Thanks to our high-performance lifts, everyone can discover the pleasures of the snow at their own pace, in an exceptional natural setting.

And don't miss the family ski areas at the bottom of the valley:

Le Savoy, Les Planards, Les Chosalets, La Vormaine, La Poya, le Tourchet.

Paragliding

Chamonix is also a paragliding mecca, and the lifts provide easy access to the main take-off sites. From Planpraz or La Flégère, enthusiasts can take to the skies for a magical flight over Mont Blanc. The updrafts allow you to fly over the valley, glaciers and forests, offering a 360° panorama of the Alps.

At Les Houches, the flights offer a gentler experience, ideal for a first initiation. In Argentière, flying over the Rognons glacier or the Argentière basin provides unforgettable sensations. In Vallorcine, paragliding allows you to admire the wild landscapes and picturesque villages nestled between the mountains, in a peaceful, unspoilt atmosphere.

Where to go on a must-see excursion in Chamonix?

High-altitude excursions in Chamonix are an unmissable way to discover the grandeur of the Mont-Blanc massif. Thanks to the lifts, everyone can easily access the iconic sites for which the valley is famous. These sites offer the perfect blend of adventure, contemplation and discovery.

Montenvers and the Mer de Glace

Accessible by historic cogwheel train, the Montenvers site is one of Chamonix's most popular excursions. In just a few minutes, you'll reach an impressive viewpoint overlooking the Mer de Glace, one of Europe's largest glaciers. There's also a trail where you can explore the ice cave and discover the fascinating history of the massif. In summer, it's also the starting point for panoramic hikes into the valley or to high-altitude refuges.

The Aiguille du Midi and its unique panoramas

Atrip to the Aiguille du Midi is an absolute must. Two cable car sections take you to an altitude of over 3,800 metres. Up there, the view of Mont Blanc, the Grandes Jorasses and the Matterhorn on a clear day is breathtaking. The "Pas dans le Vide", a glass platform suspended above the void, promises a vertiginous and memorable experience. In winter, the Aiguille du Midi is also the starting point for the legendary Vallée Blanche descent, reserved for experienced skiers accompanied by guides.

La Flégère and Brévent for spectacular views

These two sites, linked by a panoramic gondola, are perfect for admiring the Mont-Blanc massif at its best. In summer, La Flégère is the starting point for superb hikes, such as the one to Lac Blanc, while in winter it transforms into a sunny ski area. Le Brévent, opposite Mont-Blanc, is renowned for its spectacular panoramas and terraces where you can have lunch facing the peaks.

From Les Houches, access to these areas is fast and convenient, thanks to the interconnected Prarion and Bellevue lift networks, not to mention the Tramway du Mont-Blanc. Argentière and Vallorcine offer equally stunning panoramas, in a wilder, more peaceful atmosphere.

How can I enjoy Chamonix's high-altitude activities and excursions all year round?

Chamonix's ski lifts operate all year round, allowing you to discover the mountain from different angles. In winter, they serve the ski slopes and snow-covered trails for snowshoeing and ski touring. In spring and summer, they provide access to mountain trails, climbing areas and refuges. In autumn, the valley is decked out in flamboyant colors, offering breathtakingly beautiful panoramas.

The villages of Les Houches, Argentière and Vallorcine play a key role in this diversity. Every season, they offer privileged access to nature and high-altitude activities, while retaining their Alpine charm and friendly atmosphere.

What activities and excursions are suitable for families?

High-altitude excursions in Chamonix are accessible to all, including families with children. Numerous ski lifts provide effortless access to panoramic viewpoints and trails suitable for young children. Picnic areas, theme trails and play areas at altitude offer an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

At Les Houches, the resort offers easy walks and learning zones ideal for children. In Argentière, families can enjoy forest trails and breathtaking panoramas without difficulty. The quieter Vallorcine offers gentle itineraries and natural areas ideal for observing Alpine wildlife. Chamonix and its valley offer an exceptional playground where nature, adventure and wonder meet in every season.