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A panoramic view of the Mont Blanc massif high above the Chamonix Valley, France.

Best Hikes in Chamonix: Mont Blanc Views, Lakes & Waterfalls

Welcome to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the capital of European mountaineering and home to some of the world's most breathtaking alpine scenery. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you four must-see hikes that define the Chamonix Valley experience. Whether you seek panoramic views of the sprawling alpine of the Mont Blanc massif, serene glacial lakes, or hidden waterfalls, we've curated the perfect trails. Lace up your boots—your unforgettable adventure above the Chamonix Valley starts here!

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By Dave Miller

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Mountain Hikes Above the Chamonix Valley

Snow-capped jagged alpine peaks tower over the trail that runs along the Mont Blanc massif above the Chamonix Valley, France.

1. Grand Balcon Nord – Hike Mer de Glace to Plan de l'Aiguille

Hike the iconic Grand Balcon Nord for one of the best high-altitude trekking experiences in Chamonix! This moderate 7.7km trail traverses the Mont Blanc massif between Montenvers and Plan de l’Aiguille, delivering continuous, jaw-dropping views of the Mer de Glace glacier, the Grandes Jorasses, and the Aiguilles Rouges. Easily combine your trek with a visit to the Refuge du Plan de l’Aiguille and the serene Lac Bleu (Blue Lake) for the ultimate Alps adventure.

View Our Grand Balcon Nord Trail Guide (7.7 km)
A panoramic view of the Mont Blanc massif high above the Chamonix Valley, France.

2. Grand Balcon Sud - Views of the Mont Blanc massif

Discover the best Mont Blanc viewpoint on the Grand Balcon Sud! This spectacular, moderate 4km (2.5 mi) out-and-back hike from La Fleˊgeˋre in the Aiguilles Rouges reserve offers an unmatched, panoramic vista of Western Europe’s highest summit, the Bossons Glacier, and the sprawling Mer de Glace. It’s the perfect, high-reward Alpine trek for a half-day adventure near Chamonix.

Explore the Grand Balcon Sud Hike (4 km)
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Explore the Chamonix Valley: Lakes, Ruins & Waterfalls

A reflection view of the Mont Blanc massif from a lake in the center of Chamonix, France.

3. Easy Chamonix Walk: Mont Blanc Reflections and Ruins

Searching for an easy, scenic walk right in Chamonix? The Lac Sinclair Ruins Loop (1.3km) offers stunning Mont Blanc reflections across Lac des Gaillands and leads you to the secluded, historic Lac Sinclair Ruins. It’s a quick, family-friendly trail that delivers big Alpine views right next to the Les Gaillands climbing area.

Explore the Lac Sinclair Ruins Loop (1.3 km)
A milky waterfall tumbles down a cliff side with ghostly waters flowing through a creek at Cascade du Dard in Chamonix, France.

4. Family-Friendly Waterfall Walk: Cascade du Dard

Discover the secluded Cascade du Dard (Dart Waterfall), an incredibly easy and rewarding Chamonix hike perfect for families. Located minutes from downtown on the Mont Blanc massif, this short 0.5km walk guides you through a charming forest right to the base of the stunning 21m (68-foot) glacial cascade. Combine your visit with a meal at the nearby restaurant for the ultimate low-effort, high-reward Alpine stop!

View Our Cascade du Dard Trail Guide (0.5 km)

🍽️ Where to Eat in Chamonix: 3 Local Mountain Eateries

Wine and espresso sit on a table with a view of the alpine mountains high above the Chamonix Valley.

Refuge du Plan de l'Aiguille: Lunch on the Mont Blanc Massif

For the ultimate dining view, head to the Refuge du Plan de l’Aiguille. Located directly on the Mont Blanc massif, this seasonal mountain restaurant is perfectly situated along the Grand Balcon Nord. Accessible via cable car or a spectacular hike, it offers hot, savory meals with continuous, breathtaking views of the Chamonix Valley and surrounding peaks.

Visit Refuge Website
Stories and Beer restaurant logo.

Stories and Beer: Best Tacos and Craft Beer in Chamonix

Need the perfect after-hike meal? Stories and Beer in downtown Chamonix is the answer. This popular Mexican joint serves up spectacular, authentic tacos (perfect for refueling!) and features a wide selection of craft beer. It’s the ideal place to celebrate a successful day conquering the Mont Blanc massif trails.

View Menu and Hours
A sunset view of Aiguille du Midi as seen from the Chamonix Valley, France.

Bighorn Bistro: Chamonix Gastropub with Mont Blanc Views

For a taste of home, the Bighorn Bistro is Chamonix's top-rated American-style gastropub. Known for its juicy burgers, creative appetizers, and fantastic desserts, it’s a favorite among English-speaking travelers. Snag a spot on the outdoor terrace for an unbeatable meal paired with stunning views of the Mont Blanc Massif.

View Menu and Hours

🏡 Where to Stay in Chamonix

A modern livingroom with exposed beams on the ceiling, located in Chamonix, France.

Chamonix Accommodation: A Modern Airbnb with Mont Blanc Views

Looking for the perfect basecamp for your hiking adventure? We highly recommend this modern and spacious Chamonix Airbnb! The apartment features a stunning design, and the highlight is the mezzanine, which offers an unbeatable, panoramic view of the entire Mont Blanc Massif. It provides all the comforts you need after a long day on the trails.

View Airbnb Listing

Ready to Explore Chamonix?

This guide is just your starting point. Use our detailed, full-length trail guides below to plan the logistics, parking, entry fees, and specific routes for your Chamonix adventures.

See All Chamonix Trail Guides

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