Grande Traversée des Alpes

Arriving in Chamonix, the trail then merges with the TMB (Tour du Mont Blanc) for a couple of days. While the trail definitely is busier, it also provides magnificent views of both the Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges mountain ranges.

GTA leaves the TMB at the Col du Bonhomme pass, for a breathtaking day onto the Beaufortain regional park. The trail follows a spectacular ridge (Crete des Gittes), and while the view is worth it, make sure you turn around for a last view of the Mont Blanc summit – if the weather allows.

Next in line is the Vanoise National Park, the most ancient French natural park created in 1963 to prevent Alpine Ibex from going extinct in the region. Thus, the ibex became the park emblem, Vanoise National Park being home to the largest population of ibex in France, around 1800 individuals. Unlike other GTA sections, it is not allowed the wild camp in Vanoise. Pitching your tent is only allowed next to mountain huts that allow it.

As you are heading south, the terrain gradually becomes rockier. Queyras Regional Park is next, and the land mixes stoney terrain, and pine forests (actually European larch, whose golden colors shape the mountain in autumn), but also offers you an opportunity to rest in Briançon as you reach almost the middle part of your hike.

Finally, GTA leads you to the Mercantour National Park, the last piece before reaching the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll have to make a decision mid-way in the Mercantour park, whether to continue on the GR5 and finish in Nice, or switch to the GR52 and finish in Menton. The latter of the two enables you to traverse the “Vallée des Merveilles,” holding one of the largest quantities of open-air Bronze Age petroglyphs (rock engraving) in Europe.

The best time of the year to hike the GTAl is undoubtedly in summer and early September. Tackling the trail earlier than mid-June might be difficult, as passes might still be snowy and ridges too slippery (not to mention huts are closed off-season). Generally, the hiking season in the European Alps is limited to the summer months when the weather is milder and the snow has melted, making the trails accessible.

Keep in mind that the weather in the high mountains can change rapidly, and it’s essential to be prepared for various conditions, including sudden rain or snow showers. Always check trail conditions, and local weather forecasts before embarking on a high-alpine hike. Additionally, consider your hiking experience and skill level, as some trails in the high section of the Alps can be challenging and require proper equipment and a bit of experience.

Conduct thorough research on the trail. This is a long-distance trail, which means smart planning will be very helpful. This includes assessing factors such as trail difficulty, length, elevation gain, and terrain and putting them into the context of your ability.

Check in periodically with people at home, providing details like your start and end times for especially tricky sections, and emergency contact information.

Stay informed about the weather conditions by using weather apps (when you have data or wifi!) and by talking with locals. Avoid being out on the trail during severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, or extreme heat.

Be sure you have enough water and snacks to maintain your energy levels and prevent dehydration and exhaustion. Bring at least two liters of water with you.

Familiarize yourself with the trail map and carry navigation tools such as a compass or GPS device to stay oriented and avoid getting lost.

Invest in the right hiking gear, including comfortable, supportive footwear, proper hiking clothing, such as warm base layers and a hardshell rain jacket, hiking poles, a well-fitted backpack, and essential equipment like maps, GPX devices (when needed), and a first-aid kit. Check out our comprehensive gear list for long-distance trails like this.

Respect the principles of Leave No Trace by minimizing your impact on the environment. Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and have respect for wildlife and natural habitats.