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Tour du Mont Blanc summer weather conditions

From late June to the end of August it will be hot in the valleys and temperatures will be between 20°C and 30°C but these can drop to 10°C at night. At higher elevations the temperature will become cooler and this can be exacerbated by cool winds. Occasional cold fronts will bring cold, wet weather: you can expect significant temperature drops and difficult conditions in the mountains. It is not uncommon to have snow at the highest passes on the Tour du Mont Blanc during a cold front even in August. Come prepared for all weathers!

There are reliable weather forecasts available so that you can plan what you carry:

http://chamonix-meteo.com/chamonix-mont-blanc/weather/forecast/morning/5_days_weather_forecast.php

Tour du Mont Blanc  in Autumn

Technically, you could complete the Tour du Mont Blanc from late September until late October. The weather is normally stable – often with persistent high pressure conditions maintaining cool days and cold nights with clear skies. However, many hotels tend to shut around 20 September and so make it difficult to hike the regular TMB.

Tour du Mont Blanc  in Winter and Spring

Winter is brutal in the Alps and storms can rage for days, bringing high winds and lots of snow. Obviously, this is great for ski resorts, but the Tour du Mont Blanc stretches across many wild and remote areas. Deep snow, avalanche risk and unclear routes make it a hazardous undertaking. If the weather is fine and stable, you may be able to head out on skis or snow shoes, but with good winter mountain knowledge. It would be essential to hire a Mountain Guide in the winter.

In Spring, the days are longer and warmer and the snow will have consolidated. At this point skiing the Tour du Mont Blanc is possible, but you need to be conscious of slab avalanche, rock fall and the need to do quite a bit of distance in one day: some hotels will remain shut in the remoter areas and so you ski two days in one. The section from Courmayeur to Les Chapieux to Les Contamines is the most difficult.

If you need any help or advice  get in touch with us.

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Mont Blanc Weather Forecast, France Issued: 7 am Sat 11 May Local Time Updates in: hr  min  s Update imminent  

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• Peak: 4807 m
• Mid: 3000 m
• Base: 1000 m

Mont Blanc Weather (Days 0-3):

The weather forecast for Mont Blanc is: A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Mon afternoon. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -9°C on Sat afternoon, min -13°C on Mon morning). Wind will be generally light.

Mont Blanc Weather (Days 3-6):

A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Thu afternoon. Extremely cold (max -11°C on Tue morning, min -15°C on Wed morning). Mainly fresh winds.

This table gives the weather forecast for Mont Blanc at the specific elevation of 4807 m. Our advanced weather models allow us to provide distinct weather forecasts for several elevations of Mont Blanc. To see the weather forecasts for the other elevations, use the tab navigation above the table. For a wider overview of the weather, consult the Weather Map of France .

Live conditions reported by 5 closest weather stations

* NOTE: not all weather observatories update at the same frequency which is the reason why some locations may show data from stations that are further away than known closer ones.

Mont Blanc Photos

Mont Blanc massif

Mont Blanc in sunset

Mount Blanc massif

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Chamonix valley weather forecast

Daily update by a weather forecaster of Météo France. You can check here the weather for the next days in the Valley of Chamonix. 

Printable version

Due to a national strike, the Chamonix weather forecast may be not updated.

Weather for Saturday 11 May

Saturday morning, saturday afternoon, saturday night, weather for sunday 12 may, sunday morning, sunday afternoon, sunday night, forecast for the next few days, mon. 13 may, tue. 14 may, wed. 15 may, thu. 16 may, fri. 17 may, sat. 18 may.

© Document Météo France. The sale, rebroadcasting or reproduction of the information contained in this bulletin, in its original format or in the form of derived products, is strictly forbidden without the express, written authorisation of Météo France and the Chamonix Tourist Office. This bulletin is produced and analysed every morning by a Météo France forecaster based in Chamonix.

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The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most exhilarating walks in Europe. It is a challenging walk that reveals Alpine splendor every step of the way, but it has a notoriously short season. There is basically one reason for this: Snow! Weather is one of the most frequently asked questions about the tour, so we aim to give you all the tools to ensure you have no worries about the Tour du Mont Blanc weather before you go.

Tour du Mont Blanc Season

The walking season for the Tour du Mont Blanc is from June to September every year. Most other long distance hikes base their season on when the weather starts to get a bit worse, and the accommodations begin to close down. The Tour du Mont Blanc is different. All eyes are on the trail come June to see when the paths are cleared of snow, enough for hikers to get out there and walk. Mid-June is the most accurate start date anyone can give and similarly, the first couple of weeks in September is when it is likely to close down.  It is recommended to book your trip well within these dates to guarantee the route will be open and to avoid any poor underfoot conditions.

There will always be snow on the peaks, just hopefully not on the path!

Tour du Mont Blanc Weather

Before heading off on the Tour du Mont Blanc, keeping your eye on the weather is vital, particularly if you are travelling in June or September.  There are some fantastic, accurate weather sites:  https://www.chamonix.net/english/weather-forecast

https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Mont-Blanc/forecasts/2000

https://chamonix-meteo.com/chamonix-mont-blanc/weather/

In general, the weather while you are walking on the route should be warm and dry. However, there will be the occasional days of rain, so always pack appropriately. You can read our blog post on what to pack for the TMB for more information.

Tour du Mont Blanc Webcams

The best way to check exactly what is happening on the ground before you go is to take a look.  The TMB has a wealth of Webcams so you can see up to date images of where you will be walking and see for your self how glorious/not so glorious the weather is. The best set of webcams are on the official Tour du Mont Blanc Website . Underfoot conditions There is an underfoot condition which the French call Neve. This is snow which has been through the freeze/thaw cycle and is therefore incredibly slippy. It is recommended to take it slowly and trust your judgement if you come to any patches of neve. Walking poles help with the crossing too, adding stability.

Always pack for all weathers. Even when it is sunny, it can be cold and vice versa

It is recommended to always wear sun cream on this trip. Even when the sun is not apparent in the sky, the UV rays are still penetrating the clouds, and you can still feel the effects of the sun on your skin.

Using Local Judgement

As far as the weather goes, it is always a great idea to listen to what the locals are saying.  If they think the wind is too high on a particular section, heed their advice. Nobody knows this area like the people who live there.

Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort

Tour du Mont Blanc in Huts

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Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 Days: Map, Stages & Accommodations

The Tour du Mont Blanc is an epic hiking experience that takes you through three countries – France, Italy, and Switzerland – in an intense week. This adventure invites you to measure yourself against the majesty of the Alps, crossing mountain passes such as the Col du Brévent, the Col de la Seigne, and the Col des Fours, while admiring the grand landscapes of Mont Blanc.

The route offers exceptional flexibility, allowing hikers to adjust the difficulty of their journey by varying the number of days. A seven-day tour represents a considerable challenge, with some long and strenuous stages, but offers unmatched rewards in terms of satisfaction and breathtaking panoramas. For those who prefer a gentler adventure, a ten-day tour provides a more relaxed alternative.

Accommodation along the route is varied and abundant, with a wide choice ranging from comfortable hotels to quaint gîtes, traditional mountain refuges , and even bivouac sites for the more adventurous. Prepare for total immersion in the wild splendor of the Alps, facing the vastness of Mont Blanc.

Day 1 (Option 1): Les Houches – Refuge de la Balme

Download the GPX track of the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/mSlFmJ4Qro

Elevation gain, altitude, and mileage of the stage

Elevation +

Elevation –

Max. Altitude

Min. Altitude

Stage Summary:

The first stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is a 25-kilometer adventure that starts at Les Houches and ends at the Refuge de la Balme. After about 2h30 of walking from Les Houches, you will reach the Col de Voza, an initial challenge that will get you into the swing of things with about 660 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 to 7 kilometers, depending on your starting point. This first part of the route offers an impressive introduction to the beauty of the Alps and a first leg-stretcher for the rest of the tour.

After the Col de Voza, you will descend about 11 kilometers, with a negative elevation change of around 800 meters, to arrive in Les Contamines. This charming town is an ideal place to take a break, refresh with a local beer, and even spend the night if you prefer not to continue to the Refuge de la Balme. For those who choose to continue, there are still about 7 kilometers and 550 meters of positive elevation gain to reach the Refuge de la Balme. There, you can choose to sleep in the comfort of the refuge or experience a more rustic stay at the bivouac area.

Points of Interest for the Stage

Col de Voza

Where to Sleep?

Refuge de la Balme Bivouac area of Refuge de la Balme Possible to stop earlier in Les Contamines (camping or hotel)

Day 1 (option 2): Les Houches – Refuge de la Balme via the Col de Tricot variant

Download the GPX track of the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/rFQWJMXPXN

Summary of the Stage

The first stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an exciting variant that goes through the Col du Tricot, adding an extra dimension to this alpine adventure. The first part of the stage remains the same as the classic route, with a walk of about 2h30 from Les Houches to the Col de Voza. This section of the route includes about 660 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 to 7 kilometers, depending on your starting point.

Once at the Col de Voza, you will have the choice of staying on the classic route or taking the variant via the Col du Tricot. If you choose the latter, you should prepare for about 600 meters of additional positive elevation gain over a distance of 6 kilometers to reach the Col du Tricot. This variant offers a more demanding hiking experience, but also more rewarding, with spectacular panoramic views of the Alps.

From the Col du Tricot, you have several options for the rest of your day. You can continue to the Refuge de la Balme to spend the night, offering a longer but also more rewarding end to the day. Alternatively, you can turn towards Les Contamines to shorten your day and spend the night there.

Col de Voza Col de tricot at 2120m

Day 2 (option 1): Refuge de la Balme > Chapieux > Les Mottets

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/pubLJ5t1su

The second stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc begins at the Refuge de la Balme and ends at the Refuge des Mottets. It follows the classic route of the tour.

The departure from the Refuge de la Balme leads to a climb of 650 meters of elevation gain over a distance of 4 kilometers to reach the Col du Bonhomme. Once at the pass, you will continue on the classic route of the tour, without taking the variant via the Col des Fours.

After the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, you will begin a descent of 4 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 800 meters to arrive at Chapieux. From there, you will continue calmly for about 6 kilometers to the Refuge des Mottets. Along the way, you can stop at the Ville des Glaciers, where it’s possible to stop at the alpine pasture to stock up on local cheese, a true delicacy of the region.

Once arrived at the Refuge des Mottets, you will have completed this stage of the tour. This is your last stop before crossing into Italy the next day. It is recommended to book in advance if you plan to sleep in the refuge. It is important to note that it is forbidden to bivouac on the refuge property, which is quite large. However, you can pitch your tents before the refuge at the level of the ruins (about 5/10 minutes before the refuge) or after starting the ascent towards the Col de la Seigne, just behind the first “peak” that is visible from the refuge.

Col du bonhomme Col de la croix du bonhomme

Refuge des Mottets Bivouac before the Refuge des Mottets at the level of the ruins. Set up your tents quickly as it fills up very fast. Bivouac after the Refuge des Mottets (directly after the first ascent towards the Col de la Seigne)

Day 2 (option 2): Refuge de la Balme > Col des Fours > Les Mottets

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/URWmZQHWLG

The beginning of the stage is the same as the classic route, starting from the Refuge de la Balme and ascending 650 meters of elevation gain over 4 kilometers to reach the Col du Bonhomme.

Continuing towards the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme, you will then choose the variant that leads to the Col des Fours. This variant takes you to an altitude of 2665 meters, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Before embarking on this variant, it is essential to check the weather and the trail conditions in advance. Depending on the season, there can be a lot of snowfields, making some passages dangerous even in summer.

Once at the Col des Fours, you will begin a descent of 5 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 900 meters to arrive at the Ville des Glaciers. You can stop at the alpine pasture to stock up on local cheese, a true delicacy of the region, before continuing to the Refuge des Mottets.

The Refuge des Mottets is your last stop before crossing into Italy the next day. It is recommended to book in advance if you plan to sleep in the refuge. It is important to note that it is forbidden to bivouac on the refuge property, which is quite large. However, you can pitch your tents before the refuge at the level of the ruins (about 5/10 minutes before the refuge) or after starting the ascent towards the Col de la Seigne, just behind the first “peak” that is visible from the refuge.

Day 3: Les Mottets > Courmayeur

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/Twvax7D6iA

The third stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc will take you from France to Italy, crossing spectacular alpine landscapes. The stage begins at the Refuge des Mottets, and after only 4 kilometers and about 600 meters of positive elevation gain, you will reach the Col de la Seigne. This pass, perfect for waking up, marks your entry into Italy and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After the Col de la Seigne, you will continue for about 9 to 10 kilometers through the beautiful Italian valley. This part of the route takes you through varied landscapes, including the picturesque Lake Combal and several mountain refuges. Each step of this stage offers a new view of the Alps, with constantly changing panoramas and opportunities for memorable photos.

Finally, you will begin a descent of 11 kilometers with a negative elevation change of 1260 meters to arrive in Courmayeur. This Italian town is a welcome resting place after this long stage. Courmayeur is full of hotels, perfect for recharging and preparing for the next stage of your adventure. Whether you choose to relax in a spa, taste local Italian cuisine, or simply rest, Courmayeur offers a perfect end to the day for this third stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Col de la Seigne Lake Combal

Hotels in Courmayeur

Campings outside Courmayeur

Day 4: Courmayeur > Refuge Elena

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/B3MhnslfBa

The fourth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is a day that offers a mix of challenges and relaxation. Your day begins with a climb of about 800 meters of positive elevation gain over a distance of 4 to 5 kilometers, depending on your starting point. This initial climb is an excellent way to wake up and prepare for the day ahead.

Once this climb is completed, the rest of the day is relatively “quiet” compared to other stages. You will continue for about 12 kilometers, with 330 meters of positive elevation and 600 meters of negative elevation. This part of the route takes you through the beautiful Italian valley, offering spectacular views and a relaxing hiking experience.

Before arriving at the Refuge Elena, you will have about 2 kilometers and about 300 meters of positive elevation gain left. This last climb is a final challenge before ending the day. The Refuge Elena is a popular place to spend the night, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

It is important to note that you will need to book in advance to sleep at the Refuge Elena, as it fills up quickly and there are not many sleeping options in the vicinity. In Italy, bivouacking is prohibited below 2500 meters in altitude, so it is essential to plan ahead. This fourth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers a balanced hiking experience, with physical challenges, beautiful landscapes, and moments of relaxation.

Italian Valley

Where to sleep?

Refuge Elena

Day 5: Refuge Elena > Champex

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/v4RKRYwRg3

The fifth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from the Refuge Elena to Champex-Lac, is a hiking day that offers both challenges and moments of relaxation. Although this stage is quite long and some parts may not be the most attractive of the tour, it nevertheless provides a rewarding hiking experience.

The day begins with a beautiful climb of about 500 meters of positive elevation over 2 kilometers to reach the Grand Col Ferret. This ascent marks your crossing into Switzerland, a moment to celebrate, but also to consider for your phone’s internet data, as Switzerland may not be included in your European plan depending on the operator.

From the Grand Col Ferret, a descent of about 20 kilometers and 1600 meters of negative elevation awaits you. This descent brings you closer to Champex-Lac, your destination for the night. It’s worth noting that part of this stage can be done by bus by taking the shuttle at Ferret or La Fouly, which can be an attractive option for those wishing to save some energy.

You then have 6 kilometers and 600 meters of positive elevation remaining to reach the Relais de l’Arpette, where you will spend the night. It is also possible to sleep at the Camping des Rocailles in Champex, which is located about 45 minutes before the Relais de l’Arpette.

Grand Col Ferret (Italy/Switzerland border) Option to take the shuttle at Ferret to Champex and avoid walking for 4 hours Supermarket in La Fouly to restock if needed

Relais de l’Arpette Camping des rocailles (in Champex)

Day 6 (option 1): Champex > Col de Balme (via La Forclaz) > Tré le Champs.

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/f8P8nDc8xt

The sixth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Champex to Tré le Champ, is a quite hard hiking day even without taking the variant via the Fenêtre d’Arpette. This stage also marks your return to France.

Your day begins with a climb towards the Col de la Forclaz, followed by another ascent to the Col de la Balme. The Col de la Balme is a highlight of this stage, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The refuge here is a beautiful place to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The passage at the Col de la Balme also marks the border with France, another significant milestone of your journey.

After enjoying the Col de la Balme and a drink at the refuge, you will begin a descent of about 6 kilometers with 700 meters of negative elevation to reach Tré le Champ and the Auberge de la Boerne. This descent offers another opportunity to enjoy the alpine landscapes while approaching your destination for the night.

It’s important to note that you need to book your night at the Auberge de la Boerne in advance, as it fills up quickly. The bivouac area is not the largest, so it’s advised to set up your tents quickly. Once settled, you can enjoy a wonderful meal at the inn and take advantage of the showers if you wish.

Col de la Forclaz Col de la Balme

Auberge de la Boerne (hostel) Auberge de la Boerne (camping)

Day 6 (option 2): Champex > Col de Balme (via Fenêtre d’Arpette) > Tré le Champs

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/iIoAINv20C

The sixth stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Champex to Tré le Champ with the variant via the Fenêtre d’Arpette, is considered one of the hardest of the Tour, but also one of the most beautiful and rewarding.

Starting from Champex, you’ll begin a climb over 6 kilometers with an elevation gain of 1100 meters. This ascent is a challenge in itself, with some complicated passages to reach the Fenêtre d’Arpette, and the trail can be difficult to follow. It’s essential to be cautious on the way, check the weather and trail conditions beforehand carefully. Some passages may still be snow-covered and dangerous if the weather is not favorable.

Once you reach the Fenêtre, take the time to rest and savor your accomplishment. You then have a descent of about 4 kilometers with 1000 meters of negative elevation before arriving at the Chalet des Glaciers. Here, you can reward yourself with a cheese crust and a good beer.

After a well-deserved break, you’ll embark on another ascent to the Col de la Balme, about 2 kilometers with approximately 600 meters of elevation gain. The view and refuge here are magnificent, and it’s recommended to make the most of it.

Finally, you have “only” 6 kilometers and 800 meters of negative elevation to reach Tré le Champ. As always, make sure to book your night in advance, whether in a refuge or bivouac, as these places fill up quickly. The bivouac area is not the largest, so it’s advised to set up your tents quickly. Once settled, you can enjoy a wonderful meal at the inn and take advantage of the showers if you wish. This stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an unforgettable hiking experience, with physical challenges, breathtaking views, and well-deserved moments of relaxation.

Fenêtre d’Arpette Col de la Balme

Day 7: Tré le Champs > Les Houches

Download the GPX track for the stage: https://www.visugpx.com/3kIaPa8PzP

Congratulations! You’ve reached the seventh and final stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc, from Tré le Champ to Les Houches. It’s a flexible day, adaptable to your needs and desires, whether in terms of accommodation, transport, or difficulty level.

If you choose to descend to Les Houches, prepare for a full day. However, many “exits” are available along the way, allowing you to adjust your day according to your physical condition and desires.

You have the option to take the cable car from La Flégère to Chamonix, offering a quick descent and a stunning view of the valley. Another option is to take the cable car from Brévent to Chamonix, another way to enjoy the view without the effort of descending.

If you feel up to it, you can also choose to walk down to Chamonix before the ascent of Brévent. This option allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the route, while offering one last physical challenge.

During this day, you will pass through the Aiguillette d’Argentière and its ladders, as well as the Col du Brévent. Both points offer spectacular views and are highlights of this final stage.

Whichever option you choose, this last stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc is an opportunity to celebrate your achievements, enjoy the last beautiful views, and finish your adventure in style.

Aiguillette d’Argentière Col du Brévent

Les Houches Chamonix Option to take the cable car from La Flégère to Chamonix Option to take the cable car from Brévent to Chamonix Option to walk down to Chamonix before the ascent of Brévent (expect 1h30 to 2h of steep descent)

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This article was written by Hugo, a hiking enthusiast and co-creator of TMB-Guide.com. This site is your gateway to your adventure on the Tour du Mont Blanc. We strive to share as much information as possible about the Tour to help hikers prepare for their trips.

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Tour du Mont Blanc (Expert Guide)

Europe , France , Hikes , Italy , Mountains , Switzerland

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most popular treks in Europe. It covers a distance of roughly 170 kilometres and gains more than 10,000 meters of altitude over 11 stages.

In this guide we cover: what weather to expect and the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, which huts to book, what gear you might need, and much more...

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Tour du Mont Blanc

Route overview.

The Tour du Mont Blanc covers a distance of roughly 170 kilometres and gains more than 10,000 meters of altitude over 11 stages. Most people start their hike in Les Houches, France going in an anti-clockwise direction.

During this trek you will hike in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps and spend the night in mountain huts. This is one of Europe's best hikes and is a classic alpine trek. On the hike you will get splendid views of some of the highest mountains in Western Europe, as well as glaciers and alpine meadows.

The highest point reached is 2,665 meters.

The hike passes seven valleys along the way, which means there is a lot of altitude to be gained, making the Tour du Mont Blanc a physical challenge.

Fortunately, walkers are rewarded with some of the best views you can get of Mont Blanc . The route is not only one of the most beautiful long-distance treks in Europe (up there with the Walker's Haute Route ), but one of the most popular ones as well.

Nights can be spent in either mountain huts along the route or back in the valley, where you can have the luxury of a warm bed in a hotel.

What we like and dislike about the hike

• Incredible views of the Mont Blanc massif
• Hike in three countries
• Visit the beautiful villages of Chamonix and Courmayeur along the way
• Spend the night in some of Europe's most iconic mountain huts
• More expensive than other treks in Europe due to the cost of mountain huts
• Physically challenging
• Can be crowded during the summer months

Join the full Tour du Mont Blanc Hike (10-Days)

Tour du mont blanc circuit.

Source: chamonix.net

This map illustrates the Tour du Mont Blanc route. It starts off at Les Houches, France close to the Swiss and Italian border before heading west towards the Italian side of Mont Blanc.

There are 11 stages depending on your physical level. The route is circular around the Mont Blanc Massif, crossing the borders of France, Switzerland and Italy.

In terms of a trekking map we recommend:

• Chamonix, Mont-Blanc ~ IGN Top25 3630OT 2012 (English and French Edition)

And in terms of a trekking guide we highly recommend: 

• Cicerone's The Tour du Mont Blanc: Complete two-way trekking guide

Altitude Profile

In the chart below you see the altitude profile of the full hike. It is quite clear there is a lot of altitude to be gained over the 11 stages, with the highest point reached just above 2500 meters. You can see that there are a few strenuous stages reaching high mountain passes that will require great effort.

Mont Blanc Route Itinerary

Below we have laid out the most popular version of the Tour du Mont Blanc Route – 11 days, starting and finishing in Les Houches. The itinerary includes approx. distances, hiking times and elevation changes.

Day 1:  Les Houches – Les Contamines

Distance: 16 km Ascent: 646m Descent: 633m Hiking time: 5hrs

Easy first stage along, this is the most roadway you will see during the trek. The best views are to be seen at Col de Voza, where you get a look at Dome du Gouter and Aiguille de Bionnasay, with the glacier splitting it in half.

Day 2:  Les Contamines – Les Chapieux

Distance: 18 km Change in elevation:  1316m+, 929m- Hiking time: 7.5hrs

A bit tougher than the first stage. Especially, since there is quite some altitude to be gained and distance covered.

Day 3:  Les Chapieux – Rifugio Elisabetta

Distance: 15 km Change in elevation: 1004m+, 258m- Hiking time: 4.5hrs

This is the day you will leave France and enter Italy via Col de la Seigne. Despite being a short day, there still is some elevation to be gained as you will pass Col de la Seigne. At the highest point, you will gain some great views of both France and Italy and gaze into Val Veni. This is the first night you will spend in a mountain hut.

Day 4:  Rifugio Elisabetta – Courmayeur

Distance: 18 km Change in elevation: 460m+, 1560m- Hiking time: 5hrs

Another short day, since you will mainly be descending. Still, some great views will be shared before reaching Courmayeur, the Italian equivalent of Chamonix.

Day 5:  Courmayeur– Rifugio Bonatti

Distance: 12 km Change in elevation: 860m+, 101m- Hiking time: 4.5hrs

Often described as the most scenic stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc. With views on the glaciers of Planpincieux and Frebouze it’s not hard to see why. The high route along the Mont de la Saxe Crest is thought of as one of the best viewpoints of the southside of the Mont Blanc.

Day 6:  Rifugio Bonatti – La Fouly

Distance: 20 km Change in elevation: 895+, 1410m- Hiking time: 6.5hrs

Today will cross another border and enter Switzerland. Cowbells and tiny villages that have been stuck in time are your scenery for the next few days.

Day 7:  La Fouly - Champex

Distance: 15 km Change in elevation: 420m+, 565m- Hiking time: 4hrs

This probably is the easiest stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc since there are no cols to be conquered. This stage mainly is a valley trek with some great charming villages along the way. However impressive views of the mountains remain.

Day 8:  Champex – Col de la Forclaz

Distance: 16 km Change in elevation: 742m+, 682m- Hiking time: 4.5hrs

There are two ways to reach Col de la Forclaz. A lower route via Alp Bovine, or the more scenic and higher route along the Trient Glacier. This latter passes the Fenetre d’Arpette, the highest point on the Tour du Mont Blanc, and should only be considered in good weather.

Day 9:  Col de la Forclaz – Tre le Champ

Distance: 13 km Change in elevation: 1069m+, 1168m- Hiking time: 5.5hrs

From this point you re-enter France via Col de Balme. A lot of elevation is to be gained and lost, which makes the stage a strenuous one.

Day 10:  Tre le Champ – Refuge Flegere

Distance: 8 km Change in elevation: 733m+, 257m- Hiking time: 3.5hrs

Short stage, but with some ascent. You will spend another night in a mountain hut. Refuge Flegere offers great views and is a perfect last night in the mountains before arriving in Les Houches the next day. There are some ladders to be climbed before reaching the refuge however.

Day 11:  Refuge Flegere – Les Houches

Distance: 17 km Change in elevation: 772m+, 1546m- Hiking time: 6.5hrs

This last stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc goes along Le Brevent in the Aiguille Rouge. There are some splendid views of the Chamonix Valley before finally descending and arriving back in Les Houches.

Video Overview

A beautiful video overview, filmed with a GoPro, of the Tour du Mont Blanc by Eugenio psnt .

Join a Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

Frequently asked questions, how much does the tour du mont blanc trek cost.

The cost of the Tour du Mont Blanc trek is dependent on whether you plan to do a self-guided hike or join a planned tour. Self guided hikes cost in the region of $1500 (estimate of $50-$75 dollars a day). Most mountain huts / gites are around $50 (incl. breakfast). 

Guided trekking tours can be quite expensive since not only do you pay for the guiding service, but you eat and spend most nights in hotels or mountain huts. This mostly includes a luggage transfer to your next accommodation as well, so you can hike with a small backpack. Guided tours range from $2000-$3500, depending on the company / season / size of the group.

Self guided is the cheaper option, however, it does mean you carry more weight in your backpack and some planning of logistics in the weeks / months before.  

Are permits required for the Tour du Mont Blanc trek?

No permits are required for the Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

When is the best time to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc Route?

The best time to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc is between July-September, but exact start and end dates depend on the amount and timing of the previous winter’s snowfall and the onset of cold weather in the Autumn. 

Since the Tour du Mont Blanc crosses high passes, snow could create problems / dangerous conditions. Therefore in a normal year it is not advisable to set out before July. In the summer months, mid-July through to end of August, are the busiest, and temperatures during the day can rise to 25 degrees. Nonetheless, thunderstorms or a dump of snow is possible as well. 

By the end of September, huts will close and it might get a lot harder to complete the trek.

Is altitude sickness a risk?

No, you will cross passes slightly higher than 2500 meter and since you’re hiking slowly to this altitude, you have more than sufficient time to acclimatize. Most people don’t feel any symptoms of altitude sickness before reaching 3000-3500 meter.

How difficult is the Tour du Mont Blanc trek?

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc comes with great rewards. Rewards that will be more easily gathered when physically fit and mentally attuned. There are many steep and uphill sections to conquer, so exercising regularly at home before the trek is necessary to get in shape for the physical demands of this route. Mental fitness is as important and often go hand in hand. 

The Tour du Mont Blanc is doable for any fit mountain walkers who are able to hike between 5h and 7h30 min per day for several days in a row.

If you are finding the trek tough there are a few sections where you can use public transport to shorten your hike.

What gear do I need?

To do a serious trek like the Tour du Mont Blanc, appropriate clothing and equipment is a must.

Some comfortable lightweight trekking boots are a must to enjoy this trek, while good waterproofs might be essential, not only to protect you against rain or snowfall but to double as wind-proofs. Since you’ll be crossing passes of more than 2500 meters, gloves and several layers will prove useful. Trekking poles are a good way to not overload your knees and ankles

To help you plan and prepare for your trek we recommend our Tour du Mont Blanc packing list .

What travel insurance do I need?

Trekking insurance is important when going into the mountains. See our  article on insurance for more information.

Do I have to carry my own gear all the way?

It’s up to you. There are many organisations offering guided trips for this hike, meaning they do all the logistics for you. This often includes a luggage transfer to your next accommodation in the valley, so you only need to carry a small backpack with some lunch, snacks and clothes.

Browse more hikes in Europe

See our top European hikes picks, or check out these popular hikes.

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About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Hi Dempsey,

I’ve been thinking about doing that hiking for a long time and I think, after this pandemic crisis, it’s the time to see my dream coming true. I hope to do it as soon as possible, and to see it how beautiful the nature around is. Stay safe,

João Leite.

Wife and I are interested in doing this in last half of August. I know it is (too) late to reserve now. We plan to show up and hope for the best, perhaps taking advantage of late cancellations on a guided/luggage transfer arrangement. Any advice?

Hi Mike, there are a few dates available on this TMB highlights tour, which is amazing if you’re looking for a short circuit: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/trips/tour-du-mont-blanc-highlights

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices

Welcome to the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)

3 countries, one identity, 10,000 m in altitude and about 60 hours of walking, 170 km of discovery for a total of 10 days of satisfaction!

Online bookings of huts, rooms, hotels

Trails conditions

The Tour du Mont Blanc trail conditions

The itinerary of the TMB and trail stages

The hikers diary

The Tour du Mont-Blanc hikers diary

Focus Nature Reserves : good and banned practices summer 2023

Get ready to go.

The route, the safety, the conditions, the equipment: everything you need to know about the Tour du Mont-Blanc

The TMB and the trails around Mont Blanc

Accomodations

Cartography

8 wonders around Mont Blanc

Il Monte Bianco ed i suoi Ghiacciai

Video Tutorial Summer

Prudence - Sécurité en montagne par la Chamoniarde

Age and altitude

Telemedicine

Séjours Transfrontaliers Espace Mont Blanc 2013

A collection of videos on the theme of the mountains

Come and discover the paths around Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc

Alpage de Porcherey

Alpage de la Peule

Rifugio Bertone

Update on the condition of the trails around Mont Blanc

Our mountains are a fragile environment with an exceptionnal fauna and flora.To limit our impact …

Mild weather and pleasant temperatures in this period of mid-june. the snowfields are rapidly …, starting from july 14th and until 30/10/21 it is forbidden to circulate by bicycle (including mtm ….

Una bella esperienza ad ovest

Gran bel trekking, non troppo impegnativo (dipende dai tempi e dal passo). Una bella occasione per godere di un panorama incredibile che ad ogni versante regala emozioni nuove. Noi l'abbiamo fatto tranquillamente in 8 giorni in …

Bonjour On vient de terminer le tour du mont blanc en famille avec 3 enfants de 10/11 et 13ans. Les conditions étaient excellentes. Juste un névé au Brevent où on a mis les crampons pour assurer la sécurité des enfants. …

Bonjour Je viens de terminer le TMB . Excellentes conditions météorologiques. 1 jour de pluie et col de balme brouillard et vent Des névés par endroits donc attention : col du bonhomme et brevent.et par ci par la Pour ma…

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Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

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Photo by Ana Frantz on Unsplash

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a popular hiking trail in Europe that stretches 170 kilometers (106 miles), through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The Mont Blanc Trail traverses through one of the most impressive and beautiful ranges in the world, and it’s a relatively accessible trail for anyone in good shape. The hike is also a dream for foodies, as it allows you to explore new foods in different villages and hamlets throughout three countries. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is a bucket list item for many backpackers, and for good reason.

Between the stunning landscape, inclusive trail, and customizable experience, the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an adventure unlike any other in Europe. If you’re looking for a unique, challenging experience to remember for the rest of your life, you need to hike this trail. Here are some of the reasons you should add this experience to your bucket list:

• Hike through three countries: The hiking trail of the Tour du Mont Blanc extends through three European countries: France, Italy and Switzerland.
• A good option for beginners: Many  hiking tours around the world are challenging , even for seasoned hikers. However, the Mont Blanc trek is special because it’s doable for anyone who is reasonably fit. There are 17 towns, along with several other smaller villages, along the route, so there are plenty of places to stop, see the sights, eat a hot meal and get some rest before you continue on your way.
• Adjustable routes and lengths: While there is an “official” route that many hikers and tours follow, there are plenty of variations to choose from, depending on the desired length and difficulty. Generally, hiking the entire route at a reasonably comfortable pace takes about nine to 11 days. However, some routes will only take about two to five days, following a small portion of the trail. Meanwhile, some advanced hikers have been known to hike the whole route in just a few days.
• Breathtaking views: Magnificent sights, like glaciers, meadows, lakes, mountains and wildlife surround the route. High points like the Fenêtre d’Arpette and the Col des Fours are sure to take your breath away, as they allow you to admire your surroundings in all directions as far as you can see.

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What to Expect When Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

The sights and experiences of the Tour du Mont Blanc are unique but preparing for the hike will be similar to preparations for any other hike. Generally, there’s no need to pack more than a day’s worth of supplies, as the towns and villages are relatively close together on the path. Water is also readily available, whether it’s naturally occurring from springs or at a resupply stop.

Before you set out on your journey, there are a few things about the trail you need to consider, including:

Due to the high altitude and the extreme weather in the colder months, the besttime to hike Tour du Mont Blanc is in June or September, when the weather is slightly cooler, but the trails and towns are quieter and less busy. Families are less likely to go during these months because school is in session. The temperature generally ranges from 8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit) to 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).

July and August are also good months to go, but the weather is much hotter and the trails will be much more crowded. During the peak of summer, the temperature on the mountain can get up to 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit). If you’re looking to see the most foliage and mountain flowers, late June and early July are the best times to go.

Annually, the region gets about 1073 mm (42 inches) of rainfall. Afternoon thunderstorms are most common in the summer months, while September is usually the driest.

If you hike the entire 170-kilometer trail, you will navigate over 11,000 meters (36,000 feet) of combined altitude gain and loss. The highest point on the trail is 2,665 meters (8,700 feet). Since  altitude sickness  can kick in at about 8,000 feet (2,400 meters), you may start to feel sick at some of the higher points. Altitude changes can make things a bit challenging. A rapid increase or decrease in altitude can lead to altitude sickness and symptoms including dizziness, headaches, nausea and fatigue. However, traveling at a reasonable pace can help prevent sickness.

The route is relatively easy to navigate, as the trail is well-marked with signs. If you already do some form of exercise a few times per week and regularly walk or hike, you shouldn’t have a problem hiking the trail.

One particularly difficult part of the hike involves climbing a series of ladders up a steep mountainside. The ladders are just past Col du Montets, and are a popular spot for photos. If the ladders are too much to handle, you can take an alternative route, just down the path.

Basecamps vs Camping Out

There are two types of accommodations you’ll find on the Tour du Mont Blanc:

• Basecamps: The more than 50 official accommodations along the trail are usually the easiest and most comfortable options. They are popular with tour groups. Accommodations range from full-service hotels and lodges with private bedrooms and bathrooms, restaurants and spas, to dorm-style basecamps with shared bathrooms.
• Camping out: Another option is to bring your shelter with you and camp out. Camping is a much cheaper option, although some areas charge a fee. Camping out is only recommended for experienced hikers, since it requires you to carry more weight throughout the trip. You’ll have to carry your tent, sleeping bag and other gear from place to place.

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Tour du Mont Blanc Itinerary and Sights to See Along the Way

Once you know what to expect, you can start planning your adventure. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time at each place and that you’re able to see as many attractions and sights as you wish.

There are many ways to see the Tour du Mont Blanc. You can hike the trail by yourself or with a guided tour. If you decide to take a tour, your trip itinerary might look something like this:

France: Days 1-3

The first day of the trip will likely start in the village of Les Houches in France. Depending on your schedule, you might be able to explore the area. You could check out the nature preserve surrounding the village or go skiing on one of the nearby slopes.

The second day of the trip will be your first experience trekking through the Alps. You’ll start with a cable car ride high into the mountains. Then, you’ll start hiking through the deep conifer forests above Bionnassay Valley and the quaint alpine hamlets with stunning views of Mt. Blanc.

You’ll see two iconic mountains, the Aiguille de Bionnassay and the Dôme du Gouter, and a massive glacier between the two peaks. Then, you’ll descend through a series of switchbacks to Chalet de Miage, and eventually to Les Contamines, where you’ll stay the night. In this ancient village, one of the main attractions is a world-class ski resort, where you can ice climb, go tobogganing, ride dog-sleds and of course, ski. Les Contamines is also known for Patrice Dominguez Park, a popular destination in the summer for swimming, tennis, horseback riding and archery.

After a delicious breakfast in Les Contamines, you’ll start the next leg of your trip. You’ll begin with a brief shuttle to Notre Dame de la Gorge. The biggest highlight of the day is the Aiguille des Glaciers, a peak of the Mont Blanc massif that is completely covered by ice. Finally, you’ll make your way down to the Chapieux Valley towards Bourg Saint Maurice, where you’ll spend the night.

Italy: Days 4-5

On the fourth day of the trip, you take a short shuttle from Bourg Saint Maurice to Ville des Glaciers, where you’ll start your journey into Italy. Then, you’ll begin your descent into Val Ferret, a lush alpine valley on the Italian side of the border.

You’ll then take a bus from La Cantine de la Visaille to Courmayeur, where you’ll stay for the night. If you have time, try to explore Courmayeur. It’s home to one of Italy’s best ski resorts and to the Alpine Botanical Garden. It also offers a gorgeous, panoramic view of Grandes Jorasses, a mountain that lies on the border of France and Italy.

Courmayeur is also known for its shopping. From designer Italian brands to small, independent boutiques, you’ll be sure to find a gorgeous souvenir to bring home. Another popular attraction is the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car, which rotates 360-degrees as it travels towards the Punta Helbronner station.

The fourth day of the trip starts in Italy and ends in Switzerland. You’ll begin by crossing the gorgeous mountain pass, Grand Col Ferret, and arrive in a small village called La Fouly in Switzerland. Throughout the hike, you’ll see stunning views over the massif of Combins in the East and on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Then you’ll take a shuttle to a small, French-speaking Swiss village called Champex.

Switzerland: Days 6-7

Before you set out on the next leg of your hike, be sure to check out Champex, where you can taste some Swiss wine, rent a boat to take out on Champex-Lac, or go skiing down one of the nearby slopes. You could also visit the Musee de La Fondation Pierre Gianadda, a world-famous museum just a few miles outside of town. There, you’ll be able to see permanent exhibits like the Automobile Museum and the Gallo-Roman Museum, plus plenty of other temporary displays.

The sixth day brings with it the longest hike. You will also reach the highest point of the route today, as you climb over the Fenêtre d’Arpette, which sits at about 2,750 meters (9,022 feet).

On the seventh day, you’ll circle back around to France. You’ll start by going up and over Col de la Balme with fantastic views of Mont Blanc and Aiguille Verte. You’ll end in the iconic French Alps village of Argentières. Once you arrive, you can explore the charming town and maybe take part in some skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. You’ll also be able to find some delicious French cuisine here as you rest up for the last leg of your trip.

Return to France: Day 8

The eighth day will likely be the last day of heavy  hiking through the Alps . You’ll start by hiking up and over the Balcon des Aiguilles Rouges, the “Balcony over the Red Peaks,” then climbing Lac Blanc. As you descend, you’ll pass through the hamlet of Le Praz and eventually find yourself hiking into Chamonix.

After a much-deserved long night of rest, you can choose to stay in Chamonix and explore the sights and attractions nearby.

One popular spot is the Aiguille du Midi, a nearby mountain you can travel to via cable car. In about 20 minutes, the cable car will take you up the mountain, where you can see a stunning, 360-degree view of the surrounding Alps. Once you’re at the top, you can stand in a glass case over the precipice, stop by the souvenir shop, eat at the “3,842-meter restaurant, ” or take a gondola ride over the Glacier du Géant to the Pointe Helbronner in Italy.

There is also a bustling cafe and pub scene in Chamonix. After a long day of hiking and seeing the sights, stop by Le Matafan for some traditional French cuisine or the Bighorn Bistro & Bakery for a smaller snack.

Finally, you’ll want to take a ride on the cogwheel train before you depart from Chamonix. The famous railway leads to the Montenvers site, where you can see the iconic glacier, the Mer de Glace. Once you’re there, you can also take a tour of the Grotte de glace, or ice cave, which takes you into the heart of the massive glacier.

How to Prepare for the Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

As your trip gets closer, you’ll need to seriously consider what you’ll bring with you. If you’re a beginner, you might need some assistance figuring out what to pack. If you’re using professional Tour du Mont Blanc guides, they will likely provide you with a list of everything you’ll need for your specific trip.

Basic Prep Tips

To prepare for such a long trip, you’ll need to consider a number of factors, including:

• Language barriers : You can usually get away with only speaking English in most major cities in France, Italy and Switzerland. However, you’ll only be passing through small towns and villages on the Tour du Mont Blanc. So, a basic knowledge of French and Italian will be extremely helpful during your trip. There’s no need to become fluent, but learning basic words and phrases will make your trip much easier.
• Jet lag : Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may experience jet lag upon arrival. However, you’ll likely need to start hiking on the first or second day or your trip. This can be especially difficult if you’re suffering from sleep deprivation. Consider arriving in France a few days before you start hiking so your body has time to adjust.

What to Pack

Your packing list might vary if you’re using a tour guide or camping out, but there are a few essentials everyone should bring. Before you begin your journey, make sure you have:

• Travel documents: You need your passport when traveling to Europe. Keep yours in a safe location during the hike.
• Travel equipment: You might want to pack outlet adapters so that you can charge your devices at your accommodations. A travel wallet and luggage locks can help to keep your stuff secure.
• Travel clothing: Aside from your hiking clothes, be sure to bring a few sets of travel clothes, depending on how much time you’ll spend traveling. These should be comfortable, easy-to-remove items that are layered so you can adjust as the temperatures change.
• Hiking clothing: While hiking clothes will vary from person to person, you will need to bring several sets for all weather conditions. Be sure to have something for hot weather, cool weather, sunny weather and rain. You’ll also need a hat, bandanna, sunglasses, gloves and gaiters.
• Hiking gear: High-quality gear is essential. You’ll need a day pack with a cover, waterproof hiking boots that have been thoroughly worn in, a headlamp with spare batteries and trekking poles.
• Personal items: The list of personal items varies the most from person to person, so be sure to tailor it to fit the needs of your trip. You’ll likely need water bottles, a camera, insect repellent, binoculars, cellphone with waterproof case, hand and toe warmers and a book.
• Toiletries: Depending on your chosen accommodations, you might need some toiletries for your trip, like sunscreen, toothpaste and a toothbrush, feminine hygiene products, soap, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant and prescription medications.

Additional Packing Tips

Some other things to consider while packing:

• Pack essential items, like your passport, glasses, medications, money and a change of clothes in your carry on, in case your checked luggage gets lost.
• Depending on the time of year, you might want to have an umbrella handy for brief rain showers. It’s much easier to open an umbrella for a short time, rather than stop and put on all your rain gear.
• Be sure to break in your hiking boots long before you start hiking. Test out which combination of socks are best beforehand and bring moleskin or large bandages for blisters.
• Bring both Euros and Swiss Francs with you. Most vendors on the trail only accept cash.

Training for the Hike

To prepare for hiking Tour du Mont Blanc, you’ll need to focus on strength and endurance. Condition your body to keep a solid pace for several hours per day to prepare your body for the trip. If you’ve never done a hike before or it has been a while, you might want to schedule a physical with your doctor to make sure you’re in good enough shape for the trek.

If you can, practice hiking with significant elevation gains and losses for several hours or days at a time. Always account for the weight of the pack. Make sure you’re wearing a pack that holds a similar weight to the one you will wear on the trail to get your body accustomed. If you live in a flat area, focus on cardio workouts and strength training. Activities like running, swimming and biking are great ways to work out your legs, core, shoulders and back.

At a certain point in your trip, you may encounter a series of ladders. While this part of the hike is optional, many hikers attempt to climb them without the proper training or experience. Climbing up vertical ladders can be challenging for even the most in-shape hikers, especially after a long hike. To prepare for this, try adding an upper torso workout after a long cardio session.

Tour Mont Blanc With Wildland Trekking

From Chamonix to Courmayeur, the Mont Blanc hike is breathtaking. The best way to  hike Mont Blanc  is with Wildland Trekking.

Our route takes us through deep valleys, over high passes, and into quaint European mountain villages. With Wildland Trekking, we take care of all the details, so you can just enjoy the view. We promise to provide a quality guide, high safety standards, natural and cultural history, great cooking and great gear to make sure you have the best adventure possible.

For the  adventure of a lifetime  book a Wildland Trekking tour today.

About WildlandTrekking

Wildland Trekking, a home-grown USA adventure travel company started in 2005, has become one of the world’s leading trekking companies. Learn about the origins, mission and people of Wildland, America’s #1 source for Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!

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Best Time to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

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Mont Blanc's scenery evolves from a wildflower spectacle to a magical winter wonderland throughout the seasons, transforming from an "easier" (for lack of a better word) trek to a more technical adventure. With such a diverse and ever-changing range of scenery to experience, many people wonder when exactly the best time is to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc.

To sum it up, the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is during the summer months, when warmer weather and more verdant, colourful, and untouched highlights paint the route with a myriad of colours. The downside to hiking during this time are the busier trails and higher chance of afternoon showers; a small price to pay for the picturesque scenery along the trail!

Continue reading to find a month-by-month breakdown of the best time to hike Mont Blanc—pick the time that suits your trekking style, skill and fitness level most, and off you go!

The best time to do the Tour du Mont Blanc: Season-by-season

Let's take a deeper look at the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc!

The best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is between June and September. July and August are peak months, meaning a busier trail but fantastic weather. Mont Blanc's summer months boast lush greenery cloaked with wildflowers, attracting a range of adventurers. However, the pretty scenery comes with a price— congested trails and accommodation can be tough to book. Side note: our article on booking accommodation for the Tour du Mont Blanc grants insight into hotels, hostels, and camping en route.

However, trail congestion remains relatively low during the shoulder months—June and September—but the weather may be more unpredictable. Expect lingering snow even in late June!

To be safe, if you're seeking a less technical trek or haven't gone on too many trekking trips, we suggest tackling the Tour du Mont Blanc in July and August—it may be busy, but the colourful, wild scenery creates the perfect distraction.

Prepare for an average of 2.4-2.75 inches of rain a day. Not sure what to bring for clothes? Our Tour du Mont Blanc packing list article unveils the necessities in detail.

Tour du Mont Blanc - The best time to hike is between June and September

September is one of the best months to complete the incredible Tour du Mont Blanc! However, similar to hiking in June, the moody weather propels a need to diligently prepare for your Mont Blanc trek . Most mountain huts remain open until mid-September, making it easier to book accommodation once all the families have settled back in their homes. October and November bring not-so-great conditions, such as shorter sunlight hours, cooler temperatures, and closed mountain huts.

Hiking in November requires more intense gear to combat the chillier conditions sweeping the wild scenery. But the mists of snow in November grant a magical setting!

September is one of the best months to complete the incredible Tour du Mont Blanc

Some intrepid explorers considering a winter adventure may want to think again. The conditions can be pretty dangerous, especially amid a never-ending biting cold. Of course, you can pair your walking adventure with skiing, but anyone considering hiking Mont Blanc between December and February should be well-trained experts! Even experienced snowshoers, skiers, hikers should consider booking a guide in case an emergency were to arise.

What usually accompanies winter? Snow! You'll probably experience an average of 2.5-4 inches of snow and temperatures ranging from -2°C to -8°C.

Spring is an exciting time for outdoor enthusiasts: the earlier months continue to provide fantastic skiing conditions while the snow melts, unveiling glimpses of the trails carved throughout Mont Blanc. We recommended staying away from hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc during March and April due to avalanche risk, melting snow, and cooler temperatures requiring more hardcore gear. Downhill skiers tend to enjoy these months—but this article isn't about skiing Mont Blanc, is it? The temperature increases in May, but the soggy trails aren't great for hiking.

Tour du Mont Blanc - fantastic skiing conditions in the earlt months of spring

Best time to visit Mont Blanc month-by-month breakdown

Still not sure when to go? Our month-by-month breakdown provides a deeper analysis of the best time to visit Mont Blanc.

Expect quieter trails with lower rainfall, but we still recommend looking into booking refugees, despite fewer people crowding the paths. Average Temperature: High 24℃/Low 11℃ Average Rainfall: 70mm

With schools out for the summer and people on holidays, the trails can get super busy! There's a little less rain in July compared to June, with a slight spike in temperature. Average Temperature: High 26℃/Low 13℃ Average Rainfall: 60mm

When is the best time to hike Tour du Mont Blanc - Beautiful valleys and rugged mountains surrounding the trail

August is basically the same as July, but with a minor increase in average rainfall. Either way, it's essential to pack rain gear for all summer months! Average Temperature: High 26℃/Low 12℃ Average Rainfall: 70mm

The weather may dip during September, but it remains pleasant! Plus, the summer crowds have dissipated, making for a quieter, scenic adventure. Even average rainfall drops ever-so-slightly from August! Plus, mountain huts tend to remain open until mid-September. Average Temperature: High 21℃/Low 9℃ Average Rainfall: 60mm

The weather may dip during September, but it remains pleasant

With most mountain huts closed until June, less sunlight, and more rain, October may not be the best month to attempt the Tour du Mont Blanc. However, the autumn colours painting the scenery really bring the true wonder of this epic long-distance route to life. Average Temperature: High 17℃/Low 5℃ Average Rainfall: 75mm

Thinking of hiking in November? Look into high-end winter gear that can keep you warm and cozy amid the mountain air. Snow also sprinkles across the land, creating cold and brisk temperatures. Average Temperature: High 10℃/Low 0℃ Average Rainfall: 80mm

Welcome to winter! Expect a blanket of snow, causing more technicalities along the trail. Therefore, we recommend only hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc with a guide during the winter. Average Temperature: High 6℃/Low -3℃ Average Snowfall: 90mm

While it's not advised to hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc during winter, you can always use the snow to your advantage and snowshoe a section! Average Temperature: High 6℃/Low -3℃ Average Snowfall: 100mm

We would recommend avoiding exploring Mont Blanc during February! There are a lot of technicalities and snow. If you're bent on heading out in February, only consider going with a guide. Average Temperature: High 8℃/Low -2℃ Average Snowfall: 70mm

Ah, the bliss of spring! It's always nice escaping February, isn't it? Unfortunately, with melting snow comes avalanches. Maybe hold off on hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc for a short while longer due to the crazy weather! Average Temperature: High 8℃/Low -2℃ Average Snowfall: 70mm

While skiers still dominate Mont Blanc in April, the melting snow paired with lovely fauna makes for a stunning scene. However, we would still recommend keeping your hiking boots on your shelf as avalanches are still very much a thing during April. On the flip side, melting snow means a temperature increase! Average Temperature: High 15℃/Low 3℃ Average Snowfall: 50mm

Avalanches are still very much a thing during April

Dust off those hiking shoes! Although avalanche risk is still high, you'll still find some people exploring the area during May. Summer is still the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, but there may be some spots worth checking out for the day during May—you could explore trails around Chamonix, for example. Average Temperature: High 21℃/Low 9℃ Average Snowfall: 70mm

When is the best time to hike tour du mont blanc - Tour du Mont Blanc offers fantastic Alpine scenery

Now that you know the best time to hike, you can start looking into Tour du Mont Blanc tours or start booking and looking into accommodations if you're planning your trip. For even more information, check out extensive guide on Tour du Mont Blanc , which gives a broad view of the entire experience.

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is no easy feat, making it essential to do whatever you can to pick the right time to go, come prepared, and pack the right things. If you have any questions, you can always reach out to us, and we will happily answer any inquiries you may have!

Check out our series of articles planning an incredible Tour du Mont Blanc!

• Complete Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc
• How long does it take to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?
• How to Prepare for the Tour du Mont Blanc
• Packing List for the Tour du Mont Blanc
• Where to Stay on the Tour du Mont Blanc
• When to hike the TMB?
• Frequently Asked Questions about the Tour du Mont Blanc
• 10 Interesting Facts about the TMB

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Tour du Mont Blanc trail conditions 13 June 2022

The Summer Season of 2022 has started out here in the Alps, and it's truly spectacular on the trails. On our hikes we've seen many teams already out hiking the trails of the TMB and beyond. After a very lean and short winter in terms of snow cover, followed by a warm spring the trails are rapidly becoming snow free and any remaining snow patches pose very few Issues.

We have been out to visit some of the High Cols of the TMB and discovered that we are almost a month ahead in terms of melting snow conditions. And the combination of less snow than usual and the lifting of COVID restrictions seems….”Freedom of Movement” is the current theme!

We have had some very high temperatures so far and this summer is looking like it could be HOT HOT HOT! However this has usually comes with some very violent thunderstorms as a consequence. The Chamonix lift systems and mountain refuges are open.

The demand for bookings this year has been exceptionally high, therefore it is expected to be very busy out on the trails all of the season. However, fear not as there is enough space for everyone !

Below you will find some photos of the current trail conditions taken last week…(6th-10th June 2022)

Current Trail Conditions - Tour du Mont Blanc

Col du Bonhomme (2329m)

The col still has some large snow patches remaining however far less than usual. It is still recommended to have walking poles to aid safety crossing. Walking spikes are not needed as many teams are passing each day so there is a good track in place.

Col des Fours (2665m)

Heading towards and descending form the Col des Fours has the most snow. Not so many teams have taken this variation so far however it is passable with walking poles and extra care.

Col de la Seigne (2516m)

The France Swiss border of Col de la Seigne showed surprisingly much less snow than average and any snow that does remain really is not a problem.

Grand Col Ferret (2537m)

Our Visit to the Grand Col Ferret coincided with a particular bad weather day therefore it was difficult to get some good photos. Although yet again we discovered much less snow for the time of year.The initial descent on the Swiss side involves crossing some patches of easy angled snow which very soon dissipates.

Hiking Trail Conditions - Tour du Mont Blanc

So less snow than usual and in some parts the trails have become very muddy after recent snow melt and worsened after heavy thunderstorms/rain. Another reason walking poles are recommended.

Flora and Fauna on the Tour du Mont Blanc

There are an abundance of Marmots whizzing around the hillsides and plenty of Ibex and Chamois to be spotted also. The Alpine flowers are in blooming and looking glorious right now, but the high temperatures have meant some are dying off faster than usual.

Weather on the Tour du Mont Blanc

As always summer trekking in the Alps involves having temperatures as high as the 30c and as low as 6c in a single day!! Each area has its own micro-climate and as you walk, expect ALL types of weather! Despite temperatures soaring in the valley, you must still prep' for cold and wet weather and carry the essentials at all times. And for the sun, remember a high factor sunscreen, sunglasses and hat.

Kit List for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Take a good look at the advice on our kit list pages as you pretty much need to be ready for anything weather wise and the terrain needs some careful thought.

On that note…..It time for 2022 adventures to commence!

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Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in September and October : everything you need to know

by Trekking Mont Blanc | 24 November 2022 | Tour du Mont Blanc: itineraries , Tour du Mont Blanc: tips

When planning to do the Tour Du Mont Blanc, it is necessary to think about the best time to do it. The best time to do this trek is between mid-June and early October. Most walkers do it in July and August. However, doing the Tour du Mont Blanc in autumn is possible and is even an excellent idea!

July and August are the most popular months for hikers because the temperatures are more pleasant. It is also during this period that many people can go on holiday.

But how about not doing what everyone else is doing, by postponing your departure a bit? In this article, discover the advantages of  doing the Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn  and our tips to make it a success! 🙂

Why hiking the Tour Du Mont Blanc during the fall is a great idea

There are many arguments to convince you to do the Tour du Mont Blanc in September and October.

First of all, autumn means  fewer people on the trails .

This is an important point when you are looking for the serenity and peace of the mountains. You will be able to enjoy a calmer, more leisurely trek, really taking the time to recharge your batteries at the rhythm of nature.

Less crowds on the trails also means  more accessible and less crowded mountain huts . This is the perfect opportunity to spend more peaceful nights and avoid the panic of not being able to book a night!

Doing the Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn is therefore an ideal choice for all those of you who are looking for the silence, peace and quiet of the high mountain pastures on their route.

June is also a rather quiet period on the trails of the Tour Du Mont Blanc. However, the snow is still present at low altitude and in exposed passages such as  the Fenêtre d’Arpette . It will be difficult for you to use certain sections unless you invest in appropriate mountain equipment (crampons, rope, ice axe…). You may even have to consider doing part of the  trek with a mountain guide .

In September, the snow has had time to melt and is therefore absent from the trails of the Tour Du Mont Blanc. The practice of alpine variants is therefore much easier!

For example, it will be much easier to take the Haute Route du Tour du Mont Blanc, a more sporty and alpine itinerary that will surely leave you with a great and unforgettable memory of the Tour du Mont Blanc.

It would not be wrong to say that in autumn  the temperatures are a little cooler than in June  or in the middle of summer. However, they are still largely bearable and do not require you to get out the big down jackets, and other winter hiking clothes. Although they are getting shorter, the days are still long, which allows you to fully enjoy your experience.

How to hike the Tour Du Mont Blanc in September or October?

To do the Tour du Mont Blanc in September and October , several routes are possible. To help you to make your choice, we list here three of them answering different constraints such as time or difficulty.

Which itinerary to choose to do the Tour Du Mont Blanc during the fall?

The tour du mont blanc by the classical way.

To do the Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn, there are several possibilities.

• The classic route: between 9 and 11 days
• The shortened route: 7 days
• The Haute Route: an alpine variant

The first and most complete one is to do  the whole Tour Du Mont Blanc .

Depending on your itinerary and your pace, you will hike  9 to 11 days , covering nearly 170 km and facing more than  10,000 meters of vertical drop .

This trekking route does not leave out any pass, any village, any passage of interest. You will discover all the richness of the French, Italian and Swiss valleys. It is the ideal route for those who can afford to take the time to discover in depth all the wonders that the massifs shelter!

Another option is to  do the Tour du Mont Blanc in 7 days . This is an option often chosen by those who can’t spare more than a week in their holidays.

Less difficult, with a  little more than 7000 meters of positive difference in altitude , it will take you along the most beautiful stages of the Mont Blanc in a minimum of time.

Crossing also the three border countries, you will be able to enjoy all the most beautiful places and panoramas of the French, Swiss and Italian massifs, selecting only the best stages.

Please note:  this itinerary requires transfers by shuttle, bus or private vehicle, which requires a more extensive prior organization.

The Haute Route

Finally, for the more adventurous among you, there is a less conventional route called  the Haute Route of the Tour du Mont Blanc .

In September and October, the itinerary of this Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn is well cleared and more practicable than at the beginning of the season.

A little known variant of the Tour Du Mont Blanc, the route goes through the heights. This 7 day trek in the Alps takes in several little marked passages, even off trail. You will also cross several glaciers! In short, an unforgettable mountain experience 🙂

To do this Tour du Mont Blanc in autumn, it is highly recommended to have some hiking and mountain experience before embarking on it.

Otherwise, we advise you to do this Tour Du Mont Blanc with a guide.

What hiking gear should I bring to do the TMB?

Trekking equipment

The trekking gear you need to take to do the Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn is not much more important than what you would take if you were doing it in summer. If you plan to  sleep in refuges on the Tour du Mont Blanc , you won’t need to bring any specific additional equipment except for appropriate hiking clothes.

Be careful to prepare your departure . It is possible that some refuges close their doors in September. We therefore advise you to find out when they will be open and to book your nights before you leave for greater peace of mind.

If you are more of a backpacker, you still have the possibility to  do the Tour Du Mont Blanc in bivouac , even during September and October. In addition to taking your tent with you, you will need equipment adapted to the temperatures you will encounter at night.

We therefore recommend that you take the following equipment with you for a trouble-free autonomous trek:

• a sufficiently warm duvet  so as not to feel cold at night. For optimal comfort, we advise you to take a bag with a comfort temperature of around 0 degrees.
• A  sufficiently insulating  floor mat  (with an R-Value of at least 3.5) to try to limit the humidity and cold of your bedding as much as possible.
• a silk sheet , which allows you to gain a few more degrees, and will ensure that you spend your nights warm.

Hiking clothes

Even if the weather is generally still nice (and sometimes warm) in the Alps in September or October, temperatures can quickly drop in altitude. If this is not a problem to do the Tour Du Mont Blanc in autumn, it is still necessary to dress accordingly.

For the fall season, we recommend that you pack three layers of clothing, which will allow you to easily adapt to the climate you will encounter:

a light and breathable first layer : a synthetic fibre t-shirt like a sports t-shirt. Lightweight, it will allow you to feel comfortable during your long walking sessions.

a second, more insulating layer : to protect you from humidity. A fleece like  those sold at Decathlon  which are very efficient and reasonably priced.

a third, slightly thicker layer : this will protect you from the biting wind of the mountain pastures and from the rain. The waterproof jacket, although a little more cumbersome, can quickly become your best friend in case of bad weather.

This complementarity between the layers ensures great modularity according to the climate and temperatures and allows you to easily remove or add one of them.

If you are still afraid of being cold, we advise you to bring some extra clothes:

• A merino wool t-shirt : known for its lightness, its breathability and its antibacterial properties (and therefore effective against bad odours), it will be a perfect ally in case of cool temperatures.
• Gloves : especially for the morning and evening or in autumn.
• A hat : it will allow you to protect your ears which also tend to suffer from the cold.
• An extra insulating layer : like a soft-shell or micro-fleece for example, to be sure to counter the humidity and cold
• Warm hiking socks : which, like the gloves and the hat, will protect your feet, which often tend to suffer from the cold in the mountains.
• A tights : for the night to ensure additional insulation, and will allow you to be sure to sleep in the comfort of a warm environment.

To conclude our article, we must remember that no matter the season,  doing the Tour Du Mont Blanc is an unforgettable experience . However, autumn offers some important advantages to start the adventure.

So, it’s time! Choose your route, pack your backpack, and after carefully preparing your departure, embark on this incredible adventure, full of surprises 🙂

Obtenez gratuitement le guide ultime du Tour du Mont Blanc !

Itinéraires, refuges, conseils de préparation physique, liste de matériel et vêtements... Toutes les réponses aux questions que vous vous posez sur le plus beau trek d'Europe se trouvent ici ! Forts de leur expérience, nos guides ont compilé tout leur savoir dans un guide complet de plus de 50 pages. Téléchargez-le gratuitement ici 🙂

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Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc in June – early season

June can seem to be the perfect time to trek the TMB. Trekkers hoping to avoid the crowds and enjoy alpine flowers in bloom are often drawn to trek during this early shoulder season before the holiday season kicks in good and proper.

When trekkers tell me they want to trek in June, most are surprised by my one word response. Snow.

Yes. There is invariably snow on the TMB during the last two weeks of June and often into the first week of July. Many people planning an early TMB trek do not realise this.

Snow can mean a totally different experience of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Trekking during this early season should be well thought through with realistic expectations.

Conditions trekking during this 3 week period are hard to predict. Snow levels are dependent on two things – the amount of snow that fell during Winter and two – the melt rate come Spring.

Consider this – Chamonix ski lifts are STILL open into the first week of May for end of season skiing – this puts into perspective how much snow is still up there in May and June.

Given that so many trekkers planning their trail don’t realise this – I thought it would be prudent to write a post about trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc in June so you can decide whether this is the TMB you envisaged, and if so, to help you plan with confidence.

So what is it like to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc early season?

There are still a large number of trekkers who hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in June but it is quieter than the peak months of July and August.

Chamonix mountain guides do go out on the trail before the opening date to clear sections where possible or put in ropes. The main trail is generally clear mid June however snow fields will still cover the cols (mountain passes) at 2000m plus.

Through the snow fields there will be a visible track for you to follow as others before you hard pack the snow into a route. You’ll follow deep foot tracks in the soft snow. This snow packed route over the high cols will change as the snow melts and the main path becomes again visible.

The two dangers that trekkers should be aware of hiking during this time are: 1/ slipping whilst traversing snow covered sections of the trail with high exposure 2/ melting snow bridges (that often have strong torrents underneath – not something you want to fall into)

What do we mean by high exposure? High exposure means one side of the trail descends very steeply – a slip could mean a long fall down.

There are particular sections of the trail that have exposure that are prone to hold onto the snow a little longer, for example right at the beginning of the traverse to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme setting off from the top of the Col du Bonhomme (see the first two photos below). The third photo is a snow bridge over a torrent on the climb up to the Col du Bonhomme. The last photo shows the whole first traverse section towards the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme taken from the top of the Col du Bonhomme.

Snow filled gullies can also be tricky to cross where there’s a degree of exposure.

There’s a particular tricky one on the way to Col de la Seigne towards Refuge Mottets on stage 2 (first photo below). The ascent up to Refuge Elena from Hotel Chalet Val Ferret on stage 6 is prone to snow filled gullies early season! The second photo show one of these. Both taken mid June 2023.

The third photo is looking back onto the Contamines-Montjoie valley from the beginning of the ascent of the Col du Bonhomme – June 2023. The bottom photo is on stage 4 heading towards Refugio Maison Vieille mid July 2018.

Another thing to note in early season is there can be a fair degree of mud! Melting snow equals mud. Expect to squelch down some descents – this can make going downhill a bit trickier, more prone to slipping and possibly tweaking something so caution is wise.

Some trekkers choose to descend snowy descents by sliding either on their bums or standing up (with invisible skis) – a much more fun alternative.

What early TMB trekkers need to be aware of:

1/  that extra equipment should be taken to keep safe. Hiking crampons (with spikes not circular flat discs) are normally required. They don’t weigh a lot so there’s no excuse not to throw them into your bag. You will definitely feel safer with these on when crossing a snowy traverse with a lot of exposure! Mid June you may even want to consider renting a lightweight ice axe. You would hold this in one of your hands whilst crossing a tricky section – its the only thing that would stop you if you fell.

2/ you should definitely not be planning to take any of the variants (except from perhaps variant stage 1 via the Col du Tricot which is generally always clear) during this time. It’s too dangerous. If you are staying at Refuge Mottets you would need to descend down the traditional route via the hamlet of Les Chapieux.

3/ you should visit the High Mountain Office in Chamonix before setting off to find out about up to date conditions. If you are booking a self guided Tour du Mont Blanc trek then the company you have booked with should be telling you up to date conditions on the trail as well. If in doubt – ask. 

The High Mountain Office updates weather conditions here . Check this page regularly the week before your trek however there is no substitute for going in and speaking to them.

We did visit the Bureau des Guides in the Maison de la Montagne building. They were very helpful. We purchased a couple of maps from them too. Corinne and Bill Barnes, Aug 2023

So when does the TMB trail actually open?

The trail opens on 14 th  June every year but this is France – there are no rules – there are no physical barriers that are taken down on the 14 th  June and the trail ‘opens’. What it means essentially is that the infrastructure on the trail opens on the 14th, and whilst some of the public transport options won’t kick in for a few weeks, the refuges are now open and you’ll see trekkers on the trail. 

As mentioned above, the guides of Chamonix go out on the trail to clear tricky sections or to put in ropes if necessary before the 14 th  June. This does not mean it is ‘safe’. If snow is covering sections of the trail which have significant exposure (one side falling away very steeply) then trekkers need to use caution and extra equipment to safely cross (hiking crampons & possibly an ice axe) – as the High Mountain Office phrase it ‘to have mountain feet’!.

I want you to know the risks, what to do and what NOT to do.  Tragically a solo trekker perished in June this year on the Cols des Fours by falling through a snow bridge into glacial water. This variant  should never  be taken early season as the snow covers torrent crossings (glacial streams) which are fast flowing. Snow can completely blanket this water so trekkers are unaware of it. Accidents can happen as snow bridges begin to become unstable as the weather warms.

Where are the tricky areas to be aware of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in June?

In general there are always the same tricky areas when trekking Tour du Mont Blanc in June.

These are (but not limited to):-

• Flégère – expect Lac Blanc to have a lot of snow surrounding it with the lake appearing much smaller than normal as ice and snow cover it.
• Brévent – there is always a lot of snow still on the Col du Brévent. The High Mountain Office will normally advise hikers to avoid this and take a lower route. If you were planning to hike stage 11 first (which we often suggest later in the season to help with accommodation planner – between stages 10 and 11 accommodation is limited) then don’t. It’s best to add stage 11 as its chronological stage to allow more snow melt by the time you come around to it 11 days later
• Col du Bonhomme / Croix du Col du Bonhomme – whilst the Col du Bonhomme does not have any real exposure once you get to the top and start the traverse to the Croix du Col du Bonhomme – there is a lot of exposure to the right hand side – the mountain descends steeply to the right and the trail with snow on is a very narrow track where caution and concentration is necessary. See the photos further up in this post.
• Col des Fours – this always holds a lot of snow until the beginning of July. There is a very steep descent from the top of the Col des Fours which can be tricky with snow on but a much bigger danger are the unstable snow bridges crossing the glacial torrents (see above)

In the one main snow section, I think my micro spikes, a crucial item and honestly unsafe without.  I did see a couple folks without, and think in the moment, each agreed they wish they had them.  It was super steep and side hill.  The snow was crusty early, but got soft rapidly in the sun.  Many of the folks I spoke with had no idea what a fall arrest was, let alone practiced in them.  That particular section just passed the Col Du Bonhomme, if someone slipped and wasn’t able to immediately arrest, they would be traveling far too fast and seemed everything looked to end in a vertical fall or large boulders.  Simply a prime example of where not to risk it.  Spikes in that section should be a mandatory safety item. While I only wore my spikes twice, and only once for any real distance, I’d never go that time of year without them.  That said, the torrents are what personally unnerve me more than anything else.  When the rotting snow bridges start to give way, I take particular note.  I’m over 6 feet tall and not what one would consider petite, so when also carrying a heavy pack, I always imagine if a torrent is going to collapse with someone crossing it, I have a higher probability of being that someone.  There were a few that I personally found unpleasant to cross, and honestly the only remotely sketchy parts of my trek.  With spikes, the snow fields were actually quite enjoyable, even with the steep grades, but there isn’t really any safeguarding a torrent other than going around which at times isn’t an option.  I didn’t have any problem though, opting to take my time, and on a couple moving up slightly to clearly thicker snow that was less traveled, and therefore less rotten without the darker prints from previous hikers soaking up the sun’s warmth and growing softer in the mid-day.   Will Walton, Alaska

If you have trekked the Tour du Mont Blanc early season, we would welcome your comments below to help other people planning their TMB to decide whether trekking in the second half of June or first week of July might be something they would consider.

As always, thank you.

Further Reading...

The Tour du Mont Blanc’s 11 stages

Tour du Mont Blanc self guided v guided

Water stops on the TMB

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Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions 2024

Tmb conditions 2024.

Looking for a Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions report? Well look no further! With our team of local guides , we’ll post regular updates from around the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). Follow this post for monthly photos, trail descriptions and weather reports. The information is provided by local experts, and is intended to help 2024 hikers prepare for a safe and enjoyable TMB.

Disclaimer :   This blog is based on our own observations and experiences on the TMB trail. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. It’s up to you to ensure you have the right level of skill, fitness and know-how to hike in the mountains!

TMB Conditions : How to use this guide

We’ve created this Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions report to help anyone hiking the TMB in 2024. The information is especially useful for self-guided hikers, because you can choose your route accordingly. If you’re hiking the TMB in June or early July, the high passes might be covered in snow, so being prepared is essential. In this way, we’ll help by posting early updates, with photos and information about the snow cover. We’ll organise our reports chronologically, with the most recent updates at the top.

TMB Weather and Nature

As well as snow reports, we’ll provide updates on weather patterns and nature. Forecasting alpine weather is increasingly difficult, as each year is different and there is increasingly less of a pattern. For example, it used to be fairly typical that June would be cool and fairly dry, July would be warmer, and August would be the warmest month with lots of afternoon showers – but these days, the months are less predictable! Because of this, we’ve seen flowers blooming earlier than normal, and animals coming out of hibernation. We’ll let you know what we see throughout the season!

For more information about typical weather on the Tour du Mont Blanc, read this post.

TMB When to hike the TMB?

You’ve probably already planned your TMB, so you’ll know when you’re setting off. But if you haven’t got that far, please note that you cannot hike the TMB until June. We’ve started our reports in winter to give information about the snow cover. This is useful for hikers starting in June, and some people just like to see what the passes look like in winter. It’s also fun to see how the snow cover develops.

For more information about the best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, read this post.

TMB Which sections should I be most careful about?

You should pay particular attention to the following mountain passes, or “cols” :

• Fenêtre d’Arpette , which is a variant route option from Champex to Trient
• Col des Fours , which is a variant route option from Les Contamines to Refuge des Mottes / Les Chapieux
• Col de la Croix du Bonhomme , which is part of the classic TMB route from Les Contamines to Les Chapieux  
• Grand Col Ferret , which is part of the classic TMB route from Italian Val Ferret to Le Fouly
• Col de Balme , which is part of the classic TMB route from Trient to Le Tour / Argentière. This col is not particularly steep, but the North side (coming up from Trient) stays snowy late into the season.

These passes stay snowy late into the season, and most of them are steep. Another section to be wary of is the traverse to Lac Chercrouit , where snow lingers.

Winter 2023 – 2024

In the Chamonix valley, we’ve experienced the warmest winter since records began in 1877 ! The freezing level has been at a high altitude, so not much snow has fallen in the towns and villages. For example, there’s been very little snow in Chamonix, which is at 1,035 metres.

Despite the warmth, we’ve seen a lot of precipitation, so there’s a thick snow cover on the high passes. The graphic below shows around 300 centimetres of snow on northern slopes above 2,500 metres, which is quite a lot compared to previous years. To put this into context, all of the passes on the classic TMB route are above 2,000 metres. The highest point is Grand Col Ferret, at 2,537 metres. If you do the Fénêtre d’Arpette variant, this pass reaches 2,665 metres.

Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions : April 2024

Yet again, the temperatures in April have been mixed and unseasonable! At the beginning of April, we experienced record-breaking heat in Chamonix; spring flowers bloomed even as far up as Montroc (just below Le Tour), and we saw snakes and lizards basking on rocks. A week or so later, the temperatures dropped again and we got a fresh dusting of snow on the valley floor. Over in Italy, temperatures have been even lower and they’ve had a lot more snow. Over on the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard – not far from the TMB trails – at 2,188m – around 5 metres of snow depth remains on the highest part of the pass!

As you’d imagine, all of this means that the high passes on the Tour du Mont Blanc are still covered with a thick layer of snow. Unless we get consistent heat throughout May, we still expect good snow cover on the highest parts of the trail into June as per usual. The graphics below are from Meteo Blue’s archive, which you can browse here. You can find more information about weather conditions in Italy on the Meteo Val d’Aosta website , or on their Facebook group .

Our observations : Les Contamines, Col du Bonhomme, Chéserys ladders, Le Tour 

We’ve been skiing and hiking around the Chamonix valley this month, and have made this quick video for you to give you an overview of some of the main areas on the TMB. You’ll see that passes above 2000m are still very snowy, whilst the valley floor is pretty much snow-free. South facing trails are starting to emerge from the snow, such as those below the Chéserys ladders in this video. Above 2000m metres they are still snowy, even on south facing aspects, but starting to thaw as the spring temperatures increase.

Looking forward : May updates

June is fast approaching, which means that some of you will be on the trail very soon! Our first trips will also be starting in June, so we’ll update this blog post regularly throughout May to give you a more accurate idea of the current TMB conditions. Below you’ll find information about conditions earlier this winter…

Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions : March 2024

On the French and Swiss sides of Mont Blanc, the weather has been more mixed than February. In Chamonix, the temperatures dropped below 0°c at the start of March, then rose to above 15°c. We got a dusting of snow in the Chamonix valley at the end of March – in fact, we got snow down to Les Houches and even Servoz! But then the temperatures warmed again, so the valley snow melted quickly. The graphics below are from the Meteo Blue archive, which you can browse yourself here.

As was the case in February, things have been different over in Italy. They’ve had much colder temperatures, which has resulted in a lot of snow. The reason for this is interesting… it’s due to the foehn effect, when cold air from the Italian side is forced over the Mont Blanc massif. As it rises, the air cools and expands, and in doing so it loses its moisture. When it comes down onto the French side, it heats up and we experience warm, dry winds in the valley. To learn more about foehn winds, which are a common occurrence in the the Alps, I recommend this article on the Met Office website. 

Switzerland :  Fenêtre d’Arpette and Col de Balme

In the middle of March, Grant and I hiked up from Le Peuty to check out conditions in Fenêtre d’Arpette and the north side of Col de Balme . We had planned to cross the river at Chalet des Glacier, and then make a loop back along the bisse, but there was too much snow! See below our video footage of the two cols, which we managed to capture on our Happy Tracks drone! As you can see, there’s still lots of snow down the Trient valley, and it’s the same for Col de Balme too.

Les Contamines : Col du Tricot

At the end of March, Grant ran up towards Col du Tricot (2,110m). The Chalets du Miage side had a fresh dump of snow, but there wasn’t a significant amount. On the way down, he saw a big group of about 15 male ibex grazing (see the below photo!).

Italy : Rifugio Bonatti

Happy Tracks friend, Sheridan, went ski touring up from Rifugio Bonatti in mid-March. There’s lots of snow up there! Of course, this will all melt by June, but you might find it interesting to see what the refuge looks like in winter! Sheridan also saw a wolf print in the snow just above the refuge, which is exciting! For more info about wolves in the Mont Blanc region, read this post. 

We hope you’ve found this information useful and interesting! We’ll be back at the end of April / beginning of May with more news. In the meantime, if you have any questions or specific requests, just leave us a comment. Below, you’ll find our conditions reports and photos from February…

Tour du Mont Blanc Conditions : February 2024

This month we’ve been skiing, running and hiking around the TMB. Unlike “normal” Februarys, we’ve had to use the lifts to reach the snow line. In a “typical” year, we can ski-tour up the slopes at Les Houches from the car park. However, this year the lower slopes haven’t had enough cover.

Le Tour : Posettes and Col de Balme

Grant ski-toured around Le Tour at the end of February. At the top of Aiguillette des Posettes (2,201m) , he found a few rocks but the ridge is completely covered with snow. Col de Balme (2,190m)  is still very much covered, and it’s unlikely to melt until mid-June / early July. Hopefully this means we’ll get plenty more months of skiing!

For more info, check out the Le Tour webcam here. The camera sits at around 1,800 metres, just above the Charmillion cablecar station.

Les Houches : Col du Tricot

Grant and I went for a hike around La Flatière, which is on the south side of the Chamonix valley at around 1,400 metres. The trails were mostly snow-free, with just a few patches of snow where the trees are more dense. We hiked to Lac Noir, which is partially frozen. When we reached a clearing, we took some photos across the valley of snowy Col du Tricot (2,120m) , and the brown-looking ski runs at Les Houches!

Le Brévent 

Grant and I went for a ski at Le Brévent (2,525m) , where the the snow cover is very thick and will probably last several months. For more info, check out the Brévent webcam here .

Italy : Courmayeur and Col Sapin

Through the tunnel, in Italy the temperatures have been a little lower. There has been snow on the ground in Courmayeur (1,224m) for most of February. Grant and Oli skied around the resort and looked over towards Bertone and Col Sapin (2,435m) . There’s still lots of snow up high!

Waterproof or water-resistant?

Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List

How to get from Geneva to Chamonix

• TMB Conditions

Charlie works as a Content Writer for Happy Tracks. As a child, Charlie visited Chamonix during every school holiday, and she moved here permanently in 2013. She hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc with her family in 2019, and this summer she'll hike the Haute Route and Alta Via 1!

Rachel Kazmier

04/03/2024 at 13:55

Thank you!!! So tricot should be good late June unless a huge snow hits? I know it’s hard to predict….we hit trail 25 June and plan to do Bellevue to Tricot to Borrant for night one. Currently leery about Col du Fours after a video recently showed last June quite dangerous. If we did Borrant and skipped the Fours variant how much more time does that add? Night two is at Mottets! Looking forward to more updates as spring progresses.

Grant and Joel

04/03/2024 at 17:34

Hi Rachel, it’s too early to know just yet, but it’s likely there will still be snow up at Col de Tricot in June. Check back later in the season and we’ll have more info! Col du Four is one of the last passes to melt and, as you say, it can be very dangerous in the snow. We’ll make a note and if the snow clears early, we might venture that way. However, in a typical year we wouldn’t recommend doing that variant in June.

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By Joe Minihane, CNN

Published May 10, 2024 8:46 AM PDT | Updated May 10, 2024 8:46 AM PDT

Via Engiadina, in the holiday region, the Lower Engadine. (Photo credit: Andrea Badrutt via CNN Newsource)

(CNN) —  The slow approach to travel has never been more important. From overtourism to taking multiple flights, rushing from A to B isn’t just stressful, it can be environmentally damaging. Which is why, sometimes travel needs to be stripped back to basics – a pair of boots, a backpack and a map.

These mind-loosening multi-day hikes on some of Europe’s best long distance trails offer a chance to reconnect with the world, get some invigorating exercise and enjoy peaceful moments in some of the continent’s most beautiful scenery.

Hyssna Trail, Sweden

West Sweden’s quiet beauty is the star of the show on this 40-kilometer (25-mile), two-day hike. A circular route, it starts at Hyssna’s 12th century church, which can be accessed by bus from Gothenburg in just 40 minutes.

The trail passes through towering beech forests and offers the opportunity for a refreshing dip in Lilla Hålsjön lake, where there’s a dedicated swimming spot. The route is well signposted, with plenty of picnic spots and a well appointed camp site. For those in need of something a tad more luxurious, there’s the  Hyssna Forest Resort , where five star cabins feature their own outdoor showers, vast picture windows and king size beds.

Karhunkierros Trail, Finland

Finnish Lapland is renowned as a winter destination, with magical displays of  aurora borealis  and a fascinating ancient  Sami  culture. It’s also home to the 82-kilometer (51-mile) Karhunkierros Trail, the most well-known long-distance walk in Finland.

It’s a route best explored in summer, when the nights are bright and the forests verdant. The path begins in Hautajärvi village in Lapland’s Salla and ends at the Rukatunturi Fell in Kuusamo, taking four days, depending on the weather, which can change rapidly. Passing through  Oulanka National Park , there’s a sense of being in a true wilderness, where trout leap from rivers and lynx and wolverines prowl through the pines.

King Charles III England Coastal Path, England

Covering a colossal 4,300 kilometers (2,672 miles), the  England Coast Path , named after the country’s king since 2022, is a lifetime’s undertaking for those who wish to cover every step. The good news is that it can be easily broken down into sections, with northwest, northeast, east, southeast and southwest regions to explore.

Whether taking in the rugged, high cliffs and gorgeous bays of Cornwall or the vast skies and deep silence of Suffolk and Norfolk, just a few days on this epic route will leave anyone rejuvenated.

Slovenian Mountain Trail, Slovenia

Mountaineers climbing ridge on Triglav mountain, Slovenia. (Photo credit: Enrique Ugarte/Moment RF/Getty Images via CNN Newsource)

It’s no surprise that the  Slovenia Mountain Trail  has become so popular. This stunning route, covering some 616 kilometers (362 miles) runs from Maribor in the country’s northeast, all the way to Ankaran, on the Adriatic Coast. And while doing it all in one go over 28 days might seem extreme, it can be broken into smaller sections.

There are routes through the forests and primeval bogs of the Pohorje Hills or across the Julian Alps, much of which form part of the beautiful Triglav National Park. There are 49 different mountain huts to choose from and those opting to complete the entire trek will scale some 23 mountains in the process.

John Muir Way, Scotland

Known as the “Father of the National Parks” in the US, Muir’s passion for the outdoors led him to set up the Sierra Club, arguably America’s most important environmental organization, as well as ensuring that the Yosemite Valley gained protected status.

It isn’t just in the United States where Muir is memorialized. In his native Scotland, the  John Muir Way  stretches coast to coast, from Helensburgh on the Firth of Clyde to Dunbar, Muir’s birthplace on the Firth of Forth. The 215-kilometer (134-mile) route takes around 10 days to complete, passing through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and through some of Scotland’s most bucolic and underappreciated countryside.

Vikos Gorge and Mount Gamila, Zagoria, Greece

The remote and beautiful mountains of Zagoria are arguably Greece’s best-kept secret. Tucked away in the northwest of the country, they offer spectacular hiking without the crowds. The highlight is undoubtedly the Vikos Gorge, which according to the Guinness Book of Records is the deepest gorge relative to its width in the world.

In places, its cliffs tower 1,350 meters (4,429 feet). Wander its dry riverbed in summer and keep an eye out for rare wild chamois hopping across the cliff faces.  Trekking Hellas  offers a three-day trek including the gorge and the chance to head to a mountain refuge on nearby Mount Gamila.

Apuseni Mountains, Romania

The untamed Apuseni Mountains in western Romania, part of the wider Carpathian Range, offer an insight into a part of Europe where time still moves slowly and the way of life is steeped in tradition.

Hiking through the majestic hills and seemingly endless forests, you can see peregrine falcons circling on thermals high above, while the footprints of wolves and European brown bears point to the presence of some of the continent’s most elusive creatures.  Much Better Adventures  runs a four day snowshoeing trek through the region in winter, where guests stay with Romanian families and receive a proper local welcome.

The Camino Frances, France and Spain

The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage which can be walked by connecting various different trails and routes through Europe ending at the tomb of St. James in northwest Spain. (Photo credit: Alex Treadway/Photodisc/Getty Images via CNN Newsource)

The Camino de Santiago is Europe’s most famous pilgrimage route, finishing in Santiago de Compostela in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. It is here where the remains of the apostle St James are said to be buried. Traditionally, pilgrims headed here from their homes from all across Europe, but now hikers have multiple ways to walk “the Camino,” whether across Spain, from Portugal or France.

The  Camino Frances  is the most popular route, starting in St. Jean in France before heading through Pamplona and Leon before arriving in Santiago. The full route can take seven weeks, or the final 100 kilometers, from Sarria, can be tackled in about six or seven days.

Alta Via Uno, Dolomites, Italy

Italy’s Dolomites are one of the most rugged and awe-inspiring ranges on the continent. Those up for the challenge can hike from Dobbiaco in the north to Belluno in the south, a 120-kilometer (75-mile) jaunt that takes nine days.

The route clambers over rocky outcrops as jagged snow covered peaks rear up all around. The region’s hospitable mountain huts offer overnight places to rest and recuperate ahead of another tough day in the hills.

It’s worth taking time to explore around Passo Falzarego, where battles were fought during World War I. Some sections have cables to help walkers cross tough terrain. Trekkers will need to be in good shape, but it’s an unforgettable experience.

Engadine Panorama Trail, Switzerland

Summers in Switzerland are the stuff of dreams for those who love to strap on their boots and set off on an adventure. With warm temperatures, wildflower meadows and looming Alps, it’s a place for a proper escape from the day-to-day.

While many routes head high into the mountains, the Engadine Panorama Trail is more sedate, ideal for beginners or those keen on something less strenuous. The 55-kilometer (34-miles) route in the southeast of the country starts in Zernez and takes in traditional villages and sparkling lakes, with spectacular Alpine views at every turn. Ibex can often be spotted climbing high above the paths, which are well signposted.

Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland

The Tour du Mont Blanc makes a circuit around Europe's tallest mountain. (Photo credit: Vitalalp/iStockphoto/Getty Images via CNN Newsource)

Few multi-day hikes in Europe fire the imagination like the Tour du Mont Blanc. This 11-day epic covers 170 kilometers (105 miles) over 11 days and takes in three countries - France, Italy and Switzerland - following a route around western Europe’s highest mountain.

The good news is that things are extremely well organized, with regular water fountains and refuges every few miles. However, don’t show up thinking you can just bunk down for the night after a long day’s walking: Huts and refuges require booking in advance during the busy summer months.

Hiking anticlockwise from the village of Les Houches offers relentless views of Mont Blanc.  Tour du Mont Blanc Hike  offers bespoke guidance on getting the most from the trip.

Rota Vicentina Fishermen’s Trail, Portugal

The Rota Vicentina follows coastal fishermen's trails on the Portuguese coast. (Photo credit: Marc Guitard/Moment RF/Getty Images via CNN Newsource)

A network of single-day and multi-day paths in the Alentejo and Algarve regions in southern Portugal, the Rota Vicentina can be easily overlooked for the mountainous thrills of central Europe. But the Fisherman’s Trail, a 225-kilometer (140-mile) path which cleaves to the Atlantic coastline, offers a wild and memorable alternative.

Following routes used by fishermen to access the ocean, this trail makes its way along sandy paths and over high cliff tops, with walkers having to contend with the wind and changing weather. The reward comes in the form of azure waters and huge views, not to mention the sense of being reinvigorated by all that sea air.

Laugavegur Hiking Trail, Iceland

Inaccessible during winter, Iceland’s ethereal Laugavegur Hiking Trail opens between July and September, drawing in committed hikers from across the globe. The reason? Its landscape is unlike anything else on Earth. Shaped by glaciers and the country’s relentless volcanic activity, this is a place where it’s impossible not to feel utterly infinitesimal.

The 55-kilometer (34-mile) route is best done over four days, giving time to tackle the challenging terrain and take in the views. Highlights include bathing in the geothermal springs at Landmannalaugar, marveling at the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda and walking over the lush valley of Hvanngil.

Six dedicated huts and adjacent campsites are available, but booking ahead or signing up for a guided adventure as advised as the path can get busy.  Much Better Adventures  has a range of options.

Sheep’s Head Way, Cork, Ireland

The Sheep's Head Way explores Ireland's wild Atlantic coast. (Photo credit: RM Ireland/Alamy Stock Photo via CNN Newsource)

Ireland doesn’t lack when it comes to lush, windswept vistas. And few can match the  Sheep’s Head Way , a 93-kilometer (57-mile route) in Cork, which takes in some of the county’s, and the country’s, most dramatic coastline.

Starting in the town of Bantry, it heads out to the Sheep’s Head peninsula and its titular lighthouse, with views  across the raging, bright blue Atlantic to the Beara and Mizen peninsulas. The route itself takes six days, but there are options to cut it short or opt for less taxing day hikes if the weather gets a little wild. Which, in this magical part of the world, it often does.

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