Col de Balme
Table of contents
Hiking to the Col de Balme is a Chamonix Classic. This hike starts at elevation as you let the lifts whisk you up to the Swiss border, at the very top of the valley. Begin by walking along a wide and easy track, then as you hike through high flower meadows, you’ll be accompanied by cows gently clonking their bells. You’ll have iconic views of the entire Chamonix valley and Mont Blanc at all times.
Route Description for Col de Balme
From the top of Les Autannes chairlift, head left and hike along a wide track, clearly signed to the Col de Balme, for around 20 minutes. This track follows the gently sloping flanks of the mountain, showcasing the astonishing view of Mont Blanc straight down the valley. From the valley floor, it’s hard to see the size of Mont Blanc but here the added distance really brings home its colossal scale and majesty. In early summer this area is a full of flowers and the blooms continue well into August. It’s particularly notable for a profusion of wild orchids, and in autumn there are late blooming gentians to be seen.
Continue hiking and following the signs to the Col De Balme and towards a stone refuge - “Refuge du Col de Balme”. This hut has been run for decades by a lady of legendary bad temper, so it’s not a particularity recommended stop, but useful if you would like an ice cream! The best game is to see if you can get a smile out of her, tricky but possible :)
Near the refuge you’ll see the stone on the border, with the Swiss and French sides marked - a great place for photos. The views from here are exhilarating - the col generally catches any breeze that is in the air and magnifies it, so it’s wonderful on a hot day. In early summer there can often still be snow patches up here which are fun for children to play in.
From here, you can return the way you came back to the lift you came up on. However, we prefer to continue, and go up behind the hut and continue in approximately the same direction as before, on a smooth and easy path. After about 20 minutes, descend to your left, following signs to Charamillon and heading towards Mont Blanc. The open meadow gives spectacular views in front of you. Whilst on the wide, easy track (it’s actually a ski piste), look out for the sign for Les Ecuries de Charamillon if you would like to have lunch or drinks at this lovely, friendly mountain refuge.
Otherwise, head back to the Charamillon midstation and then down on the lift to Le Tour - you can catch a bus here to return to Chamonix.
Insider Hints for Col de Balme
- The hike to the Col de Balme is ideal for families and those of limited mobility, though it is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs . Baby carriers can be hired at Snell Sports in Chamonix.
- Many variations of the hike to the Col de Balme are possible. From the “Refuge du Col de Balme”, you can see the huts of the “Chalet Refuge La Balme” about 1.5 km away on the right and this is a nice easy place to walk to if you would like to extend the route a little. You can also walk up to the Aiguillette des Possettes from here (2-3 hour round trip).
- Choose a clear day as this is one to absolutely avoid if there may be bad visibility. It’s very exposed to the weather and the wide openness of Le Tour can be disorientating in thick cloud.
- Five minutes walk above the main Charamillon mid-station, you will see the stone buildings of Les Ecuries de Charamillon. These converted stables are now a restaurant and rooms - very friendly, lovely food, and a great place for lunch. Walk down from the Col (about 45 minutes) or take the lift down and walk up to the restaurant (10 minutes)
- Near the base of Le Tour is Le Passon, another small and friendly restaurant.
- Surprisingly, dogs are allowed on the (open chair) Autannes chairlift, at the operator’s discretion and entirely at your own risk. Obviously the smaller they are the easier, and it is recommended to always use a harness. Do be very cautious as the fall could easily be fatal to a dog.
Getting to the Col de Balme Trailhead
From Chamonix, take the bus to Le Tour. If you don’t already have your lift pass, buy a return ticket from here to the top lift station (Les Autannes).
Route Information
When to do:
Mid June - Mid September
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Toilets:
Yes, at Charamillon & Le Tour lift stations.
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
One Way
Col de Balme Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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