Photo: Tiia Monto, CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
About this guide
The Lac Blanc lies in the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, across the Chamonix valley from Mont Blanc. The reserve protects a fragile environment: swimming is prohibited in the Lac Blanc and the Lacs des Chéserys, and dogs are not allowed on the path.
From the top station of the Flégère gondola (1,877 m) the path drops into the Combe de la Chavanne, climbs past the Chalets and Lac de la Flégère, runs below the Tête du Aubuy to join the path from Argentière, and reaches the Lac Blanc along a flattening combe. Return the same way; the tourism board also suggests the descent to the Chalets and Lacs des Chéserys.
- Difficulty
A steep mountain path; check current trail conditions with the tourist office or the Office de Haute-Montagne before you set off.
- Season
July to September, while the Flégère gondola runs, depending on snow and weather. The gondola is closed from 14 September to 27 November 2026.
- Getting there
By bus to the La Flégère stop or by car to the gondola car park in Les Praz de Chamonix, then the Flégère gondola to the top station.
- Food & drink
Refuge du Lac Blanc (2,352 m) by the lake: lunch and dinner in summer, overnight stays on half board only; current dates on the tourism board's page.
Map, routes and places
Trails
Route data checked: October 2026 ·
Places
Sights & viewpoints
Huts & food
Getting there & parking
Plan your trip
Gondola from Les Praz (1,067 m) to La Flégère (1,877 m), start of the Lac Blanc hike; saves about 800 m of ascent. Closed 14 September – 27 November 2026.
Book guided experiences
Chamonix: Guided Sunset Hike & Fondue Dinner
Evening alpine hike to a mountain refuge with traditional Swiss fondue dinner at altitude.
Chamonix: Aiguille du Midi & Montenvers Guided Tour
Expert-guided visit to Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m) and Mer de Glace glacier with cable car.
Related guides
Sources (4) · last checked October 2026
Route data checked: October 2026