The best hikes in the French Alps

Discover the best hikes in the French Alps: lakes, glaciers, valleys, and multi-day circuits across France, Italy, and Switzerland.

The French Alps are home to some of the most rewarding hikes in Europe. With high peaks, glacial lakes, untouched valleys, and authentic alpine villages, this region offers a wide variety of trails for both casual walkers and seasoned trekkers. Many routes cross national parks, follow ancient shepherd paths, or offer spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif. Some are intense multi-day treks, while others are accessible day hikes with cable car access. Here is a selection of the 10 best hikes in the French Alps, with practical details to help you prepare and enjoy them safely.

1. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most iconic long-distance hikes in Europe. This 170 km loop circles the Mont Blanc massif, crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland. Most hikers start from Les Houches near Chamonix, and complete the route in 7 to 11 days. The trail includes alpine passes, flower-filled meadows, and mountain villages, often at over 2,000 meters. Accommodation is mostly in mountain huts or gîtes, and costs range from €1,200 to €1,600 for the full trek, including meals and lodging. The level is difficult, requiring good physical condition and experience. The TMB is renowned for its dramatic scenery and cultural diversity, making it one of the most celebrated alpine routes.

2. Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt

The Haute Route connects Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland over 213 km and takes 12 to 14 days. This is a very challenging route that crosses numerous high-altitude passes, many above 2,500 meters, and traverses remote alpine terrain. Some sections include glacier crossings, requiring basic mountaineering skills and proper gear. It is recommended for experienced hikers only. The average cost ranges between €1,500 and €2,000, including accommodations, meals, and possibly a guide. The route offers unforgettable views of the Mont Blanc, Grand Combin, Weisshorn, and ends at the base of the Matterhorn. It’s a demanding but truly exceptional journey through the heart of the Alps.

3. GR54 – Tour des Écrins

The GR54 is a 176 km loop around the Écrins Massif, located in the Isère and Hautes-Alpes regions. It takes about 10 days to complete, with a total elevation gain of over 12,800 meters. This is one of the toughest long-distance trails in France, and is classified as very difficult. It crosses rugged terrain, glacial valleys, and some of the most remote areas of the Écrins National Park. The hike typically costs around €1,000 for accommodations and meals. The trail features snow-covered peaks, eagle sightings, and quiet alpine meadows. It’s an excellent choice for hikers looking for solitude and raw, untouched mountain landscapes.

4. Lac Blanc Trail

The Lac Blanc Trail is a popular day hike near Chamonix, offering a perfect balance between effort and reward. Starting from the Flégère cable car, the hike takes 4 to 6 hours round trip, with a moderate level of difficulty and around 500 meters of elevation gain. The trail leads through alpine meadows, rocky paths, and pastures, ending at Lac Blanc, where the Mont Blanc massif is reflected in the lake’s turquoise waters. Cable car access costs €15–25 round trip, and the area can be crowded in July and August. This hike is famous for its breathtaking views and is a must-do for visitors in the Chamonix valley.

5. Grand Balcon Sud

The Grand Balcon Sud is a scenic half-day hike above Chamonix, connecting Planpraz to La Flégère. The trail stretches about 6 km, takes 2 to 4 hours, and is rated moderate. It runs at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, offering panoramic views of the Mont Blanc range. Hikers usually access the trail via the Planpraz or Flégère cable cars (costing around €20 return). The path is well-marked and does not require technical skills. It’s especially popular in late summer for its open views and alpine flora, and can be combined with a visit to Lac Blanc for a full-day outing.

6. Aiguille du Midi to Montenvers

This is a challenging high-altitude hike that descends from the Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m) to Montenvers, following the edge of the Vallée Blanche. The route takes around 6 to 7 hours, and is suitable only for experienced hikers or those accompanied by a certified guide. The terrain includes glacial sections, crevasses, and technical paths, requiring crampons and harnesses. Round-trip cable car tickets to Aiguille du Midi cost about €70. Hikers enjoy dramatic views of the Mont Blanc, Mer de Glace, and the glacier-covered peaks. This route offers an authentic high-mountain experience, unique to the Mont Blanc massif.

7. Vallée de la Clarée

The Vallée de la Clarée, located near Briançon in the Hautes-Alpes, is a peaceful and protected valley, part of the Natura 2000 network. There are multiple easy to moderate hikes along the Clarée River, through larch forests, alpine meadows, and traditional hamlets. Trails can take 3 to 5 hours, and are accessible via shuttle bus from Névache in summer (€7). The valley is known for its natural diversity, including rare plant species and views of nearby peaks. Popular spots include Laramon Lake and Serpent Lake. It’s a favorite for families and nature lovers seeking calm, uncrowded trails in an authentic alpine setting.

8. Tour du Queyras (GR58)

The Tour du Queyras follows the GR58, a 108 km loop through the Queyras Regional Natural Park in southeastern France. The trek takes 8 to 10 days, with daily stages through pine forests, high alpine passes, and quaint mountain villages. Difficulty is moderate to difficult, with several passes above 2,500 meters. Hikers stay in refuges and gîtes (average €45–70 per night with meals). This hike is appreciated for its tranquility, well-marked paths, and cultural richness, including fortified villages like Saint-Véran. The diversity of landscapes and relative lack of crowds make it one of the most rewarding multi-day hikes in the French Alps.

9. Col de la Vanoise

Located in Vanoise National Park, this hike starts from Pralognan-la-Vanoise and leads to the Col de la Vanoise pass at 2,518 meters. It’s a moderate hike of 4 to 6 hours round trip, with an 800-meter elevation gain. The trail crosses alpine meadows, passes the Lac des Vaches, and features views of glaciers and wildlife such as ibex and marmots. Overnight stays are possible at the Col de la Vanoise refuge (from €40 per night). It’s a popular route that offers a good introduction to the rich biodiversity and landscapes of the Vanoise, the first national park established in France.

10. La Bourgeoise

La Bourgeoise is a short and easy hike above Samoëns, in Haute-Savoie. It begins at the Col de Joux Plane (1,700 m), reachable by car, and takes about 2 hours round trip with just 300 meters of elevation gain. It is ideal for families and beginners. At the summit, hikers enjoy wide-open views of the Mont Blanc, the Giffre valley, and the Dents Blanches. This trail is accessible between May and October, and weather conditions can change quickly, so suitable clothing is advised. La Bourgeoise is popular for being an easy way to access spectacular alpine views without a strenuous climb.

11. Lac d’Allos (Mercantour National Park)

Lac d’Allos, nestled in the Mercantour National Park, is Europe’s largest natural high-altitude lake at 2,225 meters. The hike to the lake is considered moderate, with a round-trip duration of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the starting point. The trail offers stunning views of the turquoise lake surrounded by alpine meadows and rugged peaks. It’s accessible from mid-June to mid-October, with parking available at the Laus car park for €8 per day. This hike is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna in a pristine environment.

12. Lac du Crozet (Belledonne Massif)

Located in the Belledonne Massif near Grenoble, the Lac du Crozet hike is a moderately challenging trail that takes approximately 4 to 6 hours round trip. Starting from the Pré Raymond parking area, hikers ascend through forests and alpine pastures to reach the serene Lac du Crozet at 1,974 meters. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and is particularly popular in summer and early autumn. It’s considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the region due to its accessible terrain and stunning natural beauty.

13. Petit Mont Blanc (Vanoise Massif)

The Petit Mont Blanc hike in the Vanoise Massif offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Starting from Courchevel’s Le Belvédère area, the 20.2 km round-trip trail ascends to 2,677 meters, taking about 7.5 hours to complete. Hikers are treated to 360° panoramic views of the Vanoise glaciers and Mont Blanc. The trail is well-marked and includes diverse terrains, from alpine meadows to rocky paths. It’s a favorite among seasoned hikers seeking solitude and breathtaking vistas.

14. Vallée des Merveilles (Mercantour National Park)

The Vallée des Merveilles, or Valley of Wonders, is a unique hiking destination known for its prehistoric rock engravings and stunning alpine landscapes. The 23.9 km loop trail is moderately difficult and typically completed over two days. Hikers traverse rugged terrains, glacial lakes, and ancient archaeological sites, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Access is from the hamlet of Castérino, and accommodations are available in nearby refuges. This hike is celebrated for its cultural significance and captivating scenery.

15. Glaciers de la Meije (Écrins National Park)

The Glaciers de la Meije hike in Écrins National Park is a demanding four-day trek suitable for experienced hikers. The route encompasses glacier crossings, high mountain passes, and overnight stays in remote refuges. Participants learn basic mountaineering techniques while enjoying views of iconic peaks like La Meije and Le Rateau. This adventure offers an immersive experience in one of the Alps’ most dramatic landscapes.

16. Lac d’Anterne (Haute-Savoie)

The hike to Lac d’Anterne in Haute-Savoie is a challenging 17.4 km round-trip trail with an elevation gain of 1,190 meters. Starting from the Cascade du Rouget, hikers ascend through diverse terrains to reach the tranquil lake at 2,057 meters. The journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours and offers stunning views of surrounding peaks and waterfalls. This hike is prized for its serene environment and picturesque alpine scenery.

17. Mer de Glace (Chamonix)

The Mer de Glace hike near Chamonix is a moderate trail leading to France’s largest glacier. The 14.9 km round-trip route takes about 6.5 hours, ascending through forests to the glacier at 1,916 meters. Hikers can explore the ice cave and enjoy panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif. The hike is accessible via the Montenvers train, offering flexibility for ascent or descent. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a blend of natural wonder and accessibility.

18. Sentier des Marmottes (Eygliers)

The Sentier des Marmottes in Eygliers is a family-friendly trail known for frequent marmot sightings. The 3.0-mile loop is moderately challenging, taking about 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. The path is well-marked and includes educational panels about local flora and fauna, making it ideal for children and nature enthusiasts. This hike is celebrated for its accessibility and wildlife observation opportunities.

19. La Sambuy (Haute-Savoie)

La Sambuy offers a moderately challenging hike in Haute-Savoie, starting from the top of the La Sambuy ski resort chairlift. The 8.4 km trail takes about 4.5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 750 meters. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Annecy and surrounding mountain ranges. The trail is well-signed and includes educational booklets for children, making it suitable for families seeking both adventure and learning.

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