Aiguille Pourrie: A Hiker's Haven

Hike to Aiguille Pourrie in Chamonix for panoramic Mont Blanc views and a challenging alpine experience; a Freeride World Tour location with trails for all levels.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
France
Chamonix Mont Blanc
Aiguille Pourrie

Aiguille Pourrie, translating to 'Rotten Needle,' is a mountain summit in the Aiguilles Rouges massif near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. Despite its name, the peak offers rewarding hiking experiences with stunning panoramic views of the Mont Blanc range. Reaching an elevation of 2,561 meters (8,402 feet), it's accessible via marked trails during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. The hike involves varied terrain, including rocky paths and some easy scrambling near the summit. Aiguille Pourrie is a popular destination for those seeking a challenging day hike with unforgettable alpine vistas, and is a classic location for the Freeride World Tour.

A brief summary to Aiguille Pourrie

Aiguille Pourrie, Chamonix, 74400, FR

Local tips

Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before hiking, as alpine weather can change rapidly.
Wear appropriate hiking boots and layers of clothing, as the temperature can vary significantly with altitude.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the trails.
Consider taking the Planpraz-Brévent gondola to reduce the overall elevation gain of the hike.
Be aware of the altitude and take it easy if you're not used to hiking at high elevations.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the Chamonix Sud bus station in the town center, take the Ligne de Bus (Bus Line) towards Les Houches. Alight at a suitable stop from which to access hiking trails leading towards the Aiguilles Rouges massif and Aiguille Pourrie. From there, follow well-marked hiking trails. Bus fare is approximately €3-5 for a single trip.
Cable Car

To shorten the hike, take the Planpraz-Brévent gondola from Chamonix to Planpraz. From Planpraz, follow hiking trails towards Col Cornu and then Aiguille Pourrie. A round-trip ticket on the Planpraz-Brévent gondola costs approximately €30-35 for adults.
Walking

From Chamonix town center, follow signs towards the Aiguilles Rouges National Nature Reserve. The walk to the base of the trails leading up to Aiguille Pourrie will take several hours and involves a significant elevation gain. Ensure you are prepared for a long and strenuous hike. No costs are associated with walking, but proper hiking gear is essential.

Discover more about Aiguille Pourrie

Aiguille Pourrie, a name that translates rather unappealingly to 'Rotten Needle', is a prominent peak within the Aiguilles Rouges massif, situated near the world-renowned mountaineering hub of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in the French Alps. Don't let the somewhat off-putting name deter you; this mountain offers a fantastic hiking experience with breathtaking panoramic views that more than compensate for any initial hesitation. Rising to an elevation of 2,561 meters (8,402 feet), Aiguille Pourrie presents a challenging yet accessible day hike for experienced hikers. The trails leading to the summit are generally well-marked and navigable from late spring to early autumn, when the snow has melted and the weather conditions are more favorable. However, hikers should always check weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out, as alpine weather can change rapidly. The ascent to Aiguille Pourrie typically involves a combination of well-trodden paths and some sections of rocky terrain. Depending on the chosen route, there might be some easy scrambling required near the summit, adding a touch of adventure to the hike. The most common approach involves utilizing the lift system from Chamonix, specifically the Planpraz-Brévent gondola, which whisks hikers up to a higher starting point, significantly reducing the overall elevation gain. From Planpraz, hikers can follow trails towards Lac Cornu and Col Cornu, eventually branching off towards Aiguille Pourrie. The route meanders through stunning alpine meadows, past rocky outcrops, and offers continuous views of the Mont Blanc massif across the valley. The trail also passes near the Aiguille de Charlanon, another notable peak in the area. As hikers ascend, the views become increasingly spectacular. From the summit of Aiguille Pourrie, the panorama is truly breathtaking. Mont Blanc dominates the skyline, its snow-capped peak piercing the sky. The Aiguilles de Chamonix, a series of jagged granite spires, create a dramatic backdrop. To the north, the Aiguilles Rouges stretch out, a range of red-hued mountains that give the area its name. On a clear day, it's possible to see for miles in every direction, taking in the vastness and beauty of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. While the hike to Aiguille Pourrie is a rewarding experience in itself, it's also worth noting the area's significance in the world of freeride skiing and snowboarding. The mountain's steep faces and challenging terrain have made it a classic location for the Freeride World Tour, attracting some of the world's best skiers and snowboarders. Even if you're not a seasoned freerider, it's exciting to know that you're standing on a peak that has witnessed some incredible feats of athleticism and skill. For those seeking a less strenuous option, the area around Aiguille Pourrie offers a variety of other hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging climbs. The Grand Balcon Sud, a high-level path that traverses the slopes beneath the Aiguilles Rouges, provides stunning views of Mont Blanc without requiring a summit ascent. Lac Blanc, a picturesque lake known for its reflections of Mont Blanc, is another popular destination in the area. Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a challenging climb, or a casual walker seeking stunning alpine scenery, Aiguille Pourrie and the surrounding Aiguilles Rouges massif have something to offer everyone. The combination of breathtaking views, varied terrain, and a touch of adventure make this a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of the French Alps. Beyond the stunning views and challenging hikes, the Aiguille Pourrie area is steeped in history and natural beauty. The Aiguilles Rouges National Nature Reserve, in which Aiguille Pourrie is located, protects a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for alpine ibex, chamois, marmots, and a variety of bird species as you hike. The name 'Aiguille Pourrie,' while seemingly negative, reflects the French alpine tradition of naming peaks based on their physical characteristics. It's possible that the name refers to the appearance of the rock on the mountain, or perhaps to a particular feature that has since eroded away. Whatever the origin, the name has stuck, and it adds a touch of intrigue to this otherwise stunning peak. In conclusion, Aiguille Pourrie is more than just a 'Rotten Needle.' It's a hiker's haven, a freerider's paradise, and a place of unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a challenging climb, a scenic stroll, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the majesty of the Alps, Aiguille Pourrie is a destination that will leave you breathless.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix

5.7 km

Hike the iconic Grand Balcon Nord for unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, the Mer de Glace, and the stunning Chamonix Valley.

Grotte de glace

5.9 km

Explore the icy depths of France's largest glacier at the Grotte de Glace, a unique and ever-changing ice cave experience near Chamonix.

Mer de Glace

5.9 km

Explore Mer de Glace, France's largest glacier, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Chamonix's alpine landscape.

Le Pas dans le Vide

9.1 km

Experience the thrill of floating above the French Alps in a glass cube at the summit of Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Eglise Saint Gervais et Saint Protais

13.6 km

Discover the Baroque elegance of Eglise Saint Gervais et Saint Protais in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, a cultural and historical gem in the heart of the Alps.

French Alps

13.8 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a charming retreat for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Mont Blanc de Courmayeur

14.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Mont Blanc de Courmayeur, the crown jewel of the Italian Alps. Nature's grandeur awaits!

Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden

16.0 km

Explore the breathtaking Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden in Aosta Valley, a stunning showcase of alpine flora amidst majestic mountain scenery.

Pavillon du Mont Fréty

16.0 km

Discover the stunning beauty of the Italian Alps at Pavillon du Mont Fréty, a mountain cabin offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

Notre Dame de Guérison sanctuary

17.5 km

Discover peace and breathtaking beauty at Notre Dame de Guérison Sanctuary in the heart of Aosta Valley, a serene retreat for all travelers.

Skyway Monte Bianco

17.6 km

Soar to new heights at Skyway Monte Bianco, where breathtaking views and alpine adventures await in the heart of the Italian Alps.

Auberge De La Maison

17.9 km

Discover the luxurious Auberge De La Maison in Courmayeur, where alpine charm meets modern comfort for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Rifugio Walter Bonatti

18.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aosta Valley at Rifugio Walter Bonatti, a cozy mountain cabin offering delicious Italian cuisine and stunning views.

Mont Chétif

18.9 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mont Chétif, an iconic mountain peak in Aosta Valley, Italy, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Col Chécruit

19.4 km

Discover the serene beauty of Col Chécruit in Aosta Valley, a scenic spot that captivates with stunning views and outdoor adventures.

Unmissable attractions to see

Via Ferrata des Evettes - La Flégère Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

1.5 km

Explore the breathtaking Via Ferrata des Evettes in Chamonix, where stunning views and exhilarating climbing await adventure seekers.

Via Ferrata des Evettes - La Flégère Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Refuge de La Flégère

2.3 km

Experience the beauty of the Alps at Refuge de La Flégère, your cozy bed and breakfast in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Paradis Woods

2.4 km

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Paradis Woods, a serene national forest in the stunning Chamonix-Mont-Blanc region of France.

Brévent Cable Car

2.6 km

Explore the breathtaking heights of the French Alps with the Brévent Cable Car in Chamonix, where adventure meets stunning alpine views.

Tour des Crochues

2.9 km

Discover the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views at Tour des Crochues, a premier hiking destination in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Trou d’eau

2.9 km

Discover Trou d’eau in Chamonix: Hike scenic trails, encounter diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the French Alps for an unforgettable adventure.

Chemin de Servitude des Chesery à la Flégère

3.3 km

Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges on this stunning hiking trail near Chamonix, offering an unforgettable alpine experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Chemin de Servitude des Chesery à la Flégère

Point de vue sur L'Arveyron

3.3 km

Witness the majestic source of the Arveyron glacier near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a stunning panorama of alpine beauty and a powerful reminder of our changing world. A must-see destination in the French Alps.

Chamonix | SeeChamonix

3.5 km

Explore Chamonix, a stunning ski resort in the French Alps, renowned for breathtaking views, thrilling slopes, and vibrant mountain culture.

Point pédestre

3.5 km

Escape to Point Pédestre in Chamonix for panoramic Mont Blanc views, tranquil walking trails, and a refreshing alpine experience suitable for all nature enthusiasts.

La pierre de Lisboli

3.6 km

Discover La Pierre de Lisboli in Chamonix: A glacial erratic offering a unique glimpse into the Mont Blanc region's geological past and stunning alpine scenery.

Lac Blanc

3.6 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lac Blanc, a serene alpine lake in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.

Pierre d'Orthaz

3.7 km

Discover the serene beauty of Pierre d'Orthaz in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: breathtaking alpine views, tranquil hiking trails, and a peaceful escape into nature's embrace await.

Chamonix Mont-Blanc

3.8 km

Discover Chamonix Mont-Blanc, a world-class ski resort and vibrant alpine village nestled in the heart of the French Alps, perfect for year-round adventures.

Le Brévent, Chamonix

3.8 km

Discover breathtaking views and exhilarating outdoor adventures at Le Brévent, Chamonix – a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Essential places to dine

Bergerie de Planpraz

2.5 km

Experience delightful Alpine cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Bergerie de Planpraz in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

La Cabane Des Praz

2.9 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Cabane Des Praz in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.

Le Panoramic

3.2 km

Experience exquisite dining at Le Panoramic with stunning mountain views and a diverse menu celebrating local French cuisine.

L'index Chamonix

3.4 km

Experience culinary excellence at L'Index Chamonix—where fine dining meets cultural vibrancy in stunning Mont Blanc surroundings.

Restaurant CASABIANCO

Experience authentic French cuisine and local brews at Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval in scenic Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

MUMMA

4.0 km

Discover the exquisite fusion of Asian and French cuisine at MUMMA in Chamonix - where every dish tells a story.

Explore the elegance of Moncler in Chamonix, where luxury meets functionality in outdoor fashion.

Build a bear

3.9 km

Explore creativity at Build-A-Bear Workshop in Chamonix, where you can create personalized plush friends in a delightful alpine setting.

Odlo Store Chamonix

4.0 km

Explore the best outdoor gear at Odlo Store Chamonix, where adventure meets quality in the heart of the Alps.

A la Ville de Venise

4.0 km

Discover a magical world of toys at A La Ville de Venise in Chamonix, where imagination and fun come together in a delightful shopping experience.

Discover the cozy charm of Bar le QuartzBar, a perfect lounge in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for relaxing after exploring the beautiful Alps.

La soeur

Discover La Terrasse in Chamonix - a perfect blend of stunning vistas and delightful cuisine in the heart of the Alps.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Aiguille Pourrie with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Aiguille Pourrie: A Hiker's Haven

A brief summary to Aiguille Pourrie

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Cable Car

Walking

Unlock the Best of Aiguille Pourrie

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Aiguille Pourrie

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix

Grotte de glace

Mer de Glace

Le Pas dans le Vide

Eglise Saint Gervais et Saint Protais

French Alps

Mont Blanc de Courmayeur

Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden

Pavillon du Mont Fréty

Notre Dame de Guérison sanctuary

Skyway Monte Bianco

Auberge De La Maison

Rifugio Walter Bonatti

Mont Chétif

Col Chécruit

Unmissable attractions to see

Via Ferrata des Evettes - La Flégère Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Refuge de La Flégère

Paradis Woods

Brévent Cable Car

Tour des Crochues

Trou d’eau

Chemin de Servitude des Chesery à la Flégère

Point de vue sur L'Arveyron

Chamonix | SeeChamonix

Point pédestre

La pierre de Lisboli

Lac Blanc

Pierre d'Orthaz

Chamonix Mont-Blanc

Le Brévent, Chamonix

Essential places to dine

Bergerie de Planpraz

La Cabane Des Praz

Le Panoramic

L'index Chamonix

Restaurant CASABIANCO

Restaurant gastronomique Les Tables de Philippe Chamonix Mont Blanc

Les Canailles Chamonix

LA FRUITIERE

LA PETITE CUISINE

Le Vista - Restaurant Chamonix

JOIA by Pizzeria Des Moulins

Restaurant Le Cap-Horn

Albert 1er Restaurant

Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval

MUMMA

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

La Manufacture Chamonix

Magasin Cocktail Scandinave Chamonix

L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE

Concept Store Pure Altitude Chamonix

Colmar

Fresh Air

Arpin

L'Insoumise

Eva Baz'Art

La Canadienne Chamonix

Le Soyi à Borgate

Moncler

Build a bear

Odlo Store Chamonix

A la Ville de Venise

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Là Haut

Le Janssen Cocktail Club

L'APRES-SKI @LA FOLIE DOUCE HOTELS