Chemin des Cols Alpins

You will begin the first stage of this section hike in Champex, from which you’ll hike to Trient. This one-day stage also overlaps with the Tour du Mont Blanc. After the Durnand Valley, a steep climb will take you to the Bovine meadow. From here, you’ll enjoy one of the best views of the Rhône Valley and Martigny.

From the village of Trient, the route, which requires a good physical condition, climbs up to the Catogne mountain pasture. Descending from there, you’ll continue towards the narrow valley of the Châtelard. Next to the steepest funicular railway in the world, the path climbs up to Lake Émosson, from where you’ll enjoy a unique view of the Mont Blanc massif.

Finally, this unofficial “Haute Route” in the Lower Valais leads from Lake Emosson to Lake Salanfe via two passes, at an altitude of 1,900 to 2,500 meters. Along the way, there is a varied alternation of water, rock, flowers, and/or snow.

The best time of year to hike the Chemin des Cols Alpins is from June to September. This is when you’ll see the best views over several passes. The tourism period runs from July to August, so if you want to go in late summer or early fall, you’ll see fewer people and observe the fall colors. However, temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains as this hike crosses passes at an altitude of more than 2000 meters.

If you’re unsure what to do or when to go, try reaching out to the tourism board or alberges for their advice. They know the region best and will be able to advise you on the specific year’s seasons and options.

It is forbidden to bivouac in most areas of this hike. The tourism board asks you to inform yourself on this subject before considering bivouacking during your trip. Look into the reasons for this by reading the Leave No Trace principles.

In addition, it is important to take the necessary precautions because this path passes through many mountainous and isolated areas at high altitudes. You’ll need to take the appropriate equipment in case of bad weather. This means not only clothing, but downloading the GPX to your device, taking a first aid kit, and always having extra water just in case.

The Chemin des Cols Alpins is known as a difficult hike, and these three sections are the same. The difference in altitude is a major difficulty if you’re a new hiker. The average elevation per day is +1300m / -1,300m. Therefore, the trail is recommended for hikers with a medium to advanced level and a good physical condition. This will be necessary to comfortably link the different stages of the hike.

To train for the Chemin des Cols Alpins, try taking daily walks or hikes in your area. To train balance, walk on the side of the path where the ground is more uneven. To train strength, try taking a weighted (full) backpack with you, or using the stairmaster at the gym. To train mental endurance, try taking these hikes in bad weather. Preparing for a trail like this will make the experience all the more enjoyable.