If your holiday is just a few weeks away, now is the perfect time to start planning your activities. That way, you can make the most of your time in Chamonix.
Whether you are looking for high-adrenaline adventures or simply want to try something new, there is plenty to choose from. From mountain experiences to valley activities, it is easy to build a trip that feels both active and varied.
So, if you want to make this summer more than just a getaway, start planning ahead. Below, you will find ideas to help you create a fun and action-packed stay in Chamonix.
Find your adrenaline
Mountain Biking
Image by Corentin Leray
Explore the slopes of the Chamonix valley by downhill mountain bike for a fast-paced summer adventure. There are trails for all levels, from accessible routes to more technical descents. The main areas to ride are Les Houches, Le Tour and Vallorcine.
Les Houches
Les Houches is one of the best areas to start. The trails are well maintained and easy to access from the Prarion cable car.
🔵 Alpages Respect
🔴 Chamois
⚫ Bouquetins
Each trail is around 4 km long, with a 640 m descent. You ride from 1887 m down to 990 m. From the top, you can also choose different route variations depending on your level.
Le Tour and Vallorcine
On the other side of the valley, Le Tour and Vallorcine offer longer and more varied descents. As a result, this area is ideal if you want to progress or try something more technical.
🔵 Les Marmottes | Charamillon > Le Tour
Start: 1850 m > Finish: 1462 m
🔵 Chevreuils | Col de Balme > Charamillon
Start: 2186 m > Finish: 1856 m
🔴 Les Cerfs | Charamillon > Le Tour
Start: 1850 m > Finish: 1462 m
You can also add a filmed descent for a “bike movie” experience.
🔴 La Louve | Vallorcine > Vallorcine Village
Start: 1935 m > Finish: 1257 m
⚫ Grande Ourse | Vallorcine > Vallorcine Village
Start: 1900 m > Finish: 1264 m
Bike hire in Chamonix
There is no need to bring your own equipment. Instead, you can rent everything in Chamonix town. Chamonix All Year guests also benefit from discounts with selected partners, including Sanglard and kiLoc in Chamonix Sud.
Guided mountain biking
If you are new to downhill biking, or simply want more confidence, consider booking a guide. This way, you can improve your technique while discovering the best trails safely.
Evolution 2offers both group sessions and private guiding. Make sure to mention Chamonix All Year when booking.
Safety tips
Before heading out, it is important to check both weather and mountain conditions. You can do this via the Office de Haute Montagne.
In addition, always wear a helmet and protective gear. Make sure your bike is in good working order, especially the brakes.
Finally, stay aware of your surroundings. Some trails cross walking paths or 4×4 tracks. During July and August, certain pedestrian paths are closed to bikes, so always follow local signage.
Via Ferrata
Take on one of the valley’s most unique adventures with a Via Ferrata experience in Chamonix. Often called “iron roads”, these routes combine hiking and climbing using fixed cables, ladders and suspended bridges.
Once clipped in, you follow a secured route along the rock face. Along the way, you cross exposed sections and enjoy incredible views over the valley. As a result, it is a great option if you want something adventurous without full climbing experience.
Via Ferrata in Chamonix
There are a couple of popular routes in and around the valley, each suited to different levels.
- Les Evettes (Flégère) – 4 hours | 13+ | Beginner
- Passy (Via Ferrata de Curalla) – 3 hours | All levels
Equipment hire
If you prefer to go independently, you can rent Via Ferrata kits in Chamonix. SkiLoc Chamonix offers equipment as well as suitable footwear such as climbing and alpine boots.
Safety tips
Via Ferrata routes are exposed, so they are not suitable if you suffer from vertigo. There is also a minimum height requirement of around 1.50 m on most routes.
For a safer and more relaxed experience, it is best to go with a guide. This usually includes transport, equipment and a half-day outing, making it an easy way to try the activity.
Trail Running
Image by the Chamonix Tourist Office
Chamonix is the perfect place to explore on foot, whether you prefer trail running or a slower hike. The valley offers a wide range of routes, from gentle valley paths to more challenging mountain trails.
If you are looking to run, there are endless options with incredible views along the way. Equally, if you prefer to take it slower, hiking gives you the chance to enjoy the scenery and spot local wildlife.
To help you plan, we have put together detailed guides and handpicked routes on our blog.
Safety tips
Before heading out, always check the weather, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains. In addition, make sure someone knows your plan and expected return time.
It is also important to carry enough water, as well as a fully charged mobile phone.
Rafting
Photo by Yucca Films
Rafting in Chamonix is one of the easiest ways to add a bit of adrenaline to your trip. It is fast, fun and a good break from the mountains.
You can choose between different rivers depending on how intense you want it to be. The Arve river in Chamonix is more accessible and works well for a first experience. For something stronger, head to the Dora Baltea in Aosta, known for its bigger rapids.
You can go as a group or join an existing session, which makes it easy to fit into your plans.
Rafting options
- Chamonix (Arve river) – 1 hour | 12+ | Beginner
- Passy – 1.5 hours | 7+ | Very easy
- Aosta, Italy (Dora Baltea) – 2 hours | 16+ | More advanced
For younger children, Passy is the better option. The river is calmer, so it feels more relaxed while still being fun.
Requirements
You need to be a confident swimmer to take part.
Hydro Speed – Riverboarding
Hydrospeed is one of the more intense river activities in the Chamonix valley. Instead of sitting in a raft, you float down the river on a small board, using flippers to steer through the current.
On the Arve, you follow the flow of the river at water level, moving through rapids and calmer sections along the way. As a result, it feels more direct and physical than rafting.
You can join a group session or go with your own group, depending on what suits your plans.
Options
- Passy – 2 hours | 11+ | Intermediate
- Chamonix – 1h15 | 14+ | Intermediate
Requirements
You need to be a confident swimmer and comfortable in moving water. This activity is more demanding than rafting, so it is better suited to those looking for something a bit more challenging.
Canyoning
Canyoning is one of the most varied activities you can try in the Chamonix valley. It combines hiking, climbing and swimming in a natural mountain setting.
After a short approach walk, you follow the canyon downstream. Along the way, you abseil down waterfalls, jump into clear pools and slide through narrow rock sections. As a result, it feels more like a sequence of natural obstacles than a single activity.
The Canyon de Barberine, on the Swiss border, is a popular half-day option. It is a good introduction and suits most levels. For something more challenging, you can head to Italy, where routes are longer and more technical.
Option
- Canyon de Barberine – Half day | 10+ | Beginner
What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, a towel and a pair of trainers with good grip. Expect everything to get wet.
Additional options
For more advanced routes or private guiding, you can also contact the Compagnie des Guides in Chamonix.
Safety notes
Canyoning is accessible to most people, but age limits vary depending on the route. Group excursions are generally for ages 14 and above, while younger children can join private outings.
It is not recommended if you are uncomfortable with heights.
Paragliding in tandem
Photo by Kjell Rosenlind
Paragliding in Chamonix is one of the easiest ways to see the valley from above. Within minutes, you go from the lift station to flying over forests, glaciers and the full length of the valley.
Most flights are tandem, so you fly with an experienced pilot. After a short take-off run, you are in the air, with views stretching across Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks.
Take-off points vary depending on conditions. Common locations include Brévent, Flégère, Les Houches and Grand Montetts. For a more high-mountain experience, flights are also possible from the Aiguille du Midi or Plan de l’Aiguille.
There are also options for children, making it an activity that can work for families as well.
If you want to go further, you can take beginner courses in Chamonix and learn the basics of paragliding over a few days.
Good to know
Flights depend entirely on weather conditions, so plans can change at short notice. It is also important to be able to run for take-off.
There may be weight limits depending on the provider, and you will be given the necessary safety equipment on the day.
Helicopter rides
For a different perspective of the valley, helicopter flights offer a quick way to see the Mont Blanc massif from above. Within minutes, you are flying over glaciers, ridgelines and some of the highest peaks in the Alps.
Flights follow set routes, each covering a different part of the massif. Shorter options focus on nearby peaks, while longer flights take you deeper into the high mountains.
Flight options
- Aiguille Verte – 10 minutes
- Grandes Jorasses – 15 minutes
- Mont Blanc – 3 Peaks – 20 minutes
- Mont Blanc Massif – 30 minutes
Good to know
Flights usually require a minimum number of passengers and are subject to weather conditions. There is also a minimum age requirement, typically around 10 years old.
Thrills minus the chills
If you are after something more relaxed, or travelling with children, there are still plenty of options in Chamonix.
Summer luge
Located in the centre of Chamonix, the summer luge is an easy and fun activity. The track winds down over 1300 m with plenty of turns, making it a good option for all ages.
Gaillands adventure park
Just outside the centre, the Gaillands adventure park offers treetop courses with ziplines, rope bridges and climbing sections. There are different levels, so it works for both younger children and those looking for something more challenging.
Aiguille du Midi
For one of the best views in the valley, take the cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi at 3842 m. From the top, you can see glaciers, peaks and the Vallée Blanche below.
It is worth noting that the altitude is high, so you may feel it. However, the views make it one of the most memorable experiences in Chamonix.
Image by Fabian Bodet
Where to stay in Chamonix
With so much to do across the valley, it is easy to build a trip that suits your pace, whether that means full days of activity or a more relaxed mix of town and mountains. Staying in a self-catered apartment also gives you the flexibility to plan each day as you go.
At Chamonix All Year, our properties are spread across the valley, so you can choose to stay close to the lifts, in the centre, or somewhere quieter. Wherever you base yourself, you will have easy access to everything Chamonix has to offer.
