Chamonix trail running short break
Join us in the legendary Chamonix Valley, France - a truly world-class trail running destination and long celebrated as the global capital of adventure sports. Since hosting the first Winter Olympics in 1924, Chamonix has welcomed athletes and adventurers from across the globe, drawn by its dramatic alpine setting and vibrant mountain culture.
Over four days of guided running, you’ll discover Chamonix’s Classic Trails: routes that wind beneath sparkling glaciers, across flower-filled meadows, and in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. Along the way, you’ll also uncover the valley’s fascinating history of exploration and mountaineering.
Chamonix trail running is perfect for those who train regularly and want to make the most of their holiday time on the trails. With the option to shorten some days using trains, buses, or cable cars, you can choose to maximise the challenge, or chill out with a shorter route - ensuring an inspiring experience at your own pace.
“If we could bottle your knowledge and enthusiasm, it would be a wonderful thing!” John Sullivan, Portland, USA, Nike
Highlights
- Four 'Classic' Chamonix Trail Runs
- Run between 15-25km (9 -15.6 miles) per day
- Guided by a qualified mountain professional
- Exercise and then 'relax' in the heart of the French Alps
- Mountain hotel with pool and spa facilities
- Single rooms available on request
- Choose your daily run distance
In the heart of the French Alps sharing borders with Italy and Switzerland, Chamonix is known as the 'running capital of the world'. Run sections of the famous Marathon du Mont Blanc and Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc®, reach mountain summits, run ridge lines and get off the beaten track surrounded by awe-inspiring vistas.
At the end of each day you will have time to relax and soak up the Alpine environment. This bustling community has a great cafe culture, and there are many bars, restaurants and shops to browse. From the centre of Chamonix town you have views of the mighty Mont Blanc which towers above the valley, the highest mountain in Western Europe at 4810m (15,776ft).
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Intermediate
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Trail Running |
| Duration | 6 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2525m (8282ft) |
| Countries Visited | France |
| Meet In | Chamonix, France |
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Sustainable and Low Impact Holidays
12 Apr 2024
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
2028 Departures
What's Included
- 4 full days of guided running by an International Mountain Leader, who is also an experienced trail runner
- 5 nights half board hotel accommodation; 3 course evening meal and breakfast
- Accommodation is based on two people sharing
- Guest card; free use of Mont Blanc Express train
What's Not Included
- Lunches
- Travel Insurance - required
- Travel to & from meeting point
- Miscellaneous personal spending
- Optional cable cars & Montenvers train
Itinerary
Today you arrive in Chamonix, France. This evening your running guide will meet you at your hotel, at approximately 1800 hrs, when they will be available to answer any questions about the next few days. Each day there is the possibility of shortening your run by taking public transport or a cable car back to base. These costs are not included in your trip fee as this is a personal choice, but you will receive a Guest Card that covers free train in the valley. It does not cover cable cars, nor the historic Montenvers rack and pinion railway.
The Valley of Chamonix has running trails at all altitudes and the Petit Balcon Nord and Sud, are located at the lowest elevation making this the perfect warm up day. The 'Petit Balcon' dates to the Victorian era, and history refers to it as being a 'balcony' walk, in other words it offers a wonderful balcony type trail with views of the mountains. Enjoy the Chamonix landscape and surrounding peaks while running through quaint villages and farming communities.
Our day begins with a gentle, with a short train ride to Chamonix, and run through this ancient mountain town. We soon pick up a lovely trail along the River Arve, taking us past the old village of Bois du Bouchet, and on to the hamlet of Les Tines, where traditional chalets add character to the day. Here we take a wide riverside trail through the pine and spruce forests that dominate the mountainsides, which takes us to the alpine ski village of Argentiere at 1250m (4100ft). Here we will aim to have a coffee break while enjoying the scenery.
Leaving Argentiere we complete our circuit by joining the Petit Balcon Nord, on the opposite side of the valley, and make our way back gently downhill towards Chamonix. We continue on excellent ‘balcony’ trails as the route picks up the Mont Blanc Marathon course and passes through the quiet village of Le Lavancher. If you wish to have a shorter day you can choose to take the train, which is free of charge, back down the valley.
Ascent: 580m (1900ft) Descent: 580m (1900ft) Distance: 12-24km (7.5-15 miles) Duration: 5h30 - 6h00
Today we head up high for close up views of two of the glaciers in the Mont Blanc Range, the 'Glacier des Bossons' and the 'Mer de Glace' or Sea of Ice. This second classic trail was also the venue for our Trail Running Film. Starting from Chamonix, we begin with a steep climb that will test legs and lungs as we make our way above the treeline. Anyone wishing to miss the initial climb can join us on the high trail as the route is also accessible by taking the first stage up the famous Aiguilles du Midi cable car.
Our ascent follows good trails through the pine forests to reach the perfectly situated Refuge Plan d'Aiguilles at 2200m (7216ft). The gradient isn't steep, but a steady walking pace should be expected and the use of poles is recommended. As we gain height we see towers of ice through the trees, and the glacier itself. At the refuge we will stop for refreshments and a panoramic view below the summit of Mont Blanc.
We now join the 'Grand Balcon Nord', the highest of the balcony trails, and run on an undulating path beneath granite rock spires. A rocky trail traverses for 6.5 kilometres (4 miles) to reach the Signal Forbes viewpoint at 2198m (7209ft). Here we have excellent views of the famous 'Drus' two immense rock towers, and we witness our second glacier, the largest in France the Mer de Glace.
Our trail then drops down to meet the historic rack and pinion Montenvers Train. Otherwise after a stop for refreshments this is where we begin a superb 870m (2853ft) switch-back descent through the pine forest to the valley floor. If you want to save your knees taking the Montenvers train is a relaxed way to return to Chamonix. The train ticket is not included in your trip fee.
Ascent: 1300m (4264ft) Descent: 1420m (4657ft) Distance: 10km (6.2 miles), 16km (10 miles), 20km (12.5 miles) Duration: 5h30 - 6h00
Today we head for the 'Valley of the Bears'; Vallorcine is a wide valley scattered with traditional farm buildings and cattle grazing in lush alpine meadows. It takes its name from the legend that the valley was once home to many bears which the locals traded in lieu of paying taxes to the government. We leave Vallorcine following a valley trail which features in both the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc® and the Marathon du Mont Blanc. Following the line of the river to Le Buet the trail winds its way through the alpine cow pastures. We leave the main valley traversing a meadow through ancient houses until we enter the quiet Vallon de Bérard. Accessible only on foot our path soon reaches an impressive waterfall where we can look down on to climbers tackling the route in the gorge. The trail continues close to the river, and once we cross the river we then heads upwards via several summer meadows known as 'alpages'. We continue to climb through the forests before arriving at the high alpage and Refuge Loriaz. These meadows are where the herds graze to a chorus of cow bells during the summer months. We can enjoy a coffee and cake at the old farm buildings with views to Mont Blanc and the Swiss Alps. We descend from the refuge through the lush meadows to pick up a superb single track trail which leads us back down to the valley floor. We then take the Mont Blanc Express train back to Chamonix.
Ascent: 850m (2788ft) Descent: 850m (2788ft) Distance: 15km (9.5 miles) - 20km (12.5 miles) Duration: 5h30 - 6h00
Today we will run a short section of the world famous UTMB trail running race. First we make our way to Montroc where we have a short uphill run to reach the Col des Montets at 1491m (4892ft), with its nature reserve and visitors centre. Leaving the col the trail winds up the mountainside for 400m (1312ft). En route we often pass ibex sunning themselves by the trail. These mountain animals are incredibly well adapted to their environment and are without doubt nature's own rock climbers performing amazing moves on the cliffs and crags of the alps. We will then make our way along a balcony trail which offers stunning panoramic views of Chamonix Valley to reach the infamous Tête aux Vents. On the race route the ascent to the Tête aux Vents comes very late in the event after the competitors have already covered around 150km (94 miles) and climbed more than 9000m (29,520ft) making it one of the final major climbs before the finish line. Let's see how you find the climb when you have fresh legs and spare a thought for the competitors who tackle this every August! After taking in the views we cross the mountainside to the cable car station at Flégère. We plan to run down to the valley, however, you can choose to take the cable car. This will be at your own expense.
Ascent: 910m (2985ft) Descent: 1230m (4035ft) Distance: 17km (10.5 miles) Duration: 5h30 - 6h00
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
Hotel Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix - Summer
The Hotel Aiguille du Midi, situated on the outskirts of Chamonix, has excellent views to Mont Blanc and a reputation for great food.
Over the last 100 years five generations of the Farini family have managed this hotel, a tradition which continues today. We know that Carla and Vincent will give you a warm welcome. The Hotel Aiguille du Midi, which sits below the Les Bossons glacier, has forty traditionally decorated rooms. There is a small relaxation area with a sauna, and jacuzzi.
Trip Information
Chamonix, France is easily reached from other European and worldwide destinations by road, rail, coach or plane.
If travelling by train we recommend booking through RailEurope or Trainline. The most direct route is taking the Eurostar to Gare de Nord and then use the TGV system via Gare de Lyon, Bellegarde Sur Valserine, St Gervais le Bains and finally to Chamonix Mont Blanc.
For coach travel we recommend using Flixbus. For more information on travelling by public transport, please see our travel blog.
If travelling by plane, Geneva is the closest international airport, only 1h15 by road which makes shared transfers, buses or trains easy to arrange.
A range of travel options to reach the Chamonix valley can be found on the Chamonix Tourist Office website.
Reaching Chamonix from Geneva airport is straightforward with many transfer companies operating this route throughout the day. Either consider a scheduled bus which will drop you at Chamonix Sud Bus Station, such as easybus.com, or use a private transfer company such as Haute Transfer, or Mountain Drop-Offs which will drop you at your accommodation. If booking with Mountain Drop-Offs you receive a small discount on the route by using our company code of TAT01. This code only applies to transfers in ’normal’ working hours. It does not apply to early morning, or late evening transfers.
Please contact us if you need further advice on your specific travel requirements.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it’s important to have the right equipment and clothing. We believe our kit lists cover the necessary items required relating to the weather conditions you might encounter and for the accommodation you will be staying in.
Equipment
Trail running shoes - for a variety of trails
Running poles - highly recommended for long climbing and mixed terrain
Running pack/vest - maximum 10 litres, ideally with a chest and waist strip. Test your pack for comfort once full
Rucksack cover/liner/bags - to keep contents dry
Water - container 1 litre/2 x soft flasks
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs
Waterproof jacket with hood - waterproof and breathable membrane designed for mountain use
Waterproof over trousers
Mid length tights and longs socks or long running tights to cover the legs completely
Thermal top – long sleeves
Thin fleece/lightweight down jacket
Running shorts/skort
Breathable t-shirt/vest
Warm hat
Ear/headband
Baseball cap/sun hat
Gloves - 1 thick pair & 1 thin pair
Running socks
Recovery socks/compression socks - not essential
Scarf/buff for neck
Fleece/wind stopper waistcoat - optional
Comfort
Lip salve
Sunscreen
Sunglasses – essential
Tissues/Toilet paper - biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Snacks - running food such as bars/gels/energy drinks/trail mix/recovery drinks etc
Personal First Aid
Personal Medication - if required
Blister Plasters
Normal Bandaid
Blister tape eg Strappal
Pain relief/anti-inflammatories
Glucose tablets
2 x Re-hydration sachets
A few throat lozenges
Anti-chaffing cream/Vaseline
Antiseptic cream/spray
Bandage/Knee support - recommended
Emergency foil blanket
Documentation
Cash – Euros
Credit card
Passport
Waterproof bag for documents
Mountain Rescue Insurance - compulsory
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
Camera
Phone that will function in the countries you are visiting
Clothing for use in accommodation
Slippers for use in accommodation
Swimwear for pool/hot tubs if available
Ear plugs – recommended if room sharing
Head torch - also useful when sharing a room
Maps can be bought locally - not essential
Heart rate monitor – optional
GPS watch/phone to track your route - if owned
Toiletries: soap/shower gel as not all accommodations supply this
Check out the What kit to bring Blog post on our website for further advice on:
weight saving ideas
how to waterproof your kit
ideal trail shoes for the route
nutrition advice
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and will carry their own first aid kit
Adventure Lightly, Leave Only Footprints
Local guides – led by those who live in the area
Hop on a train – easy, stress-free travel to destination available
Feel at home – stay in family run accommodation wherever possible
Keep it green – our stays are big on recycling!
Say no to single-use – help us cut down on plastic waste
Leave no trace – everything, even tissues, comes off the mountain with you
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £295 in 2027 and £310 in 2028.
For this trip where you are centre-based, in other words where you are staying in the same accommodation all week, you are welcome to bring whatever luggage you require. However, please note that not all the hotels we use have elevators. This means you may need to carry your luggage to your bedroom and this might involve climbing several flights of stairs. We would suggest that luggage with wheels is generally a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have maps of the itinerary you will find that the map detailed below covers your itinerary:
IGN 3630 OT: Chamonix Massif du Mont Blanc 1:25,000
Summer mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. In the summer it is generally good, but it can be everything from glorious sunshine, to rain, fog, high winds and even snow. Temperatures can reach over 30°Celsius (86°F) in July and August, but drop to 5°Celsius (41°F) on the high passes, or 'Cols' as they are known in the Alps. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures range from 15-25°Celsius (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°Celsius (41-59°F) on the passes. Even in mid-summer we can be faced with overnight snow.
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here.
We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your trail running guide will be a qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader. IML's are trained to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. Many of our trail running guides have competed in mountain marathons, and ultra marathons in the European Alps and further afield. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
Lunches are not included in your trip fee, allowing you to choose the trail food you enjoy while helping to reduce food waste. Lunches are generally picnic-style, with a packed lunch, snacks and drinks to keep you going throughout the day. Your guide/instructor will advise you where to buy supplies locally or help you order a picnic from your accommodation. Occasionally, there may also be an opportunity to stop at a café or restaurant along the trail. Please pay for any lunches or drinks ordered from your accommodation the evening before, to avoid delays in the morning.
