Grand Balcon Nord: A Panoramic Alpine Traverse
Hike the iconic Grand Balcon Nord in Chamonix for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges, and the Mer de Glace, easily accessible by cable car and cogwheel train.
The Grand Balcon Nord is a spectacular and relatively easy hiking trail in the French Alps, offering non-stop panoramic views of the Chamonix Valley and the Mont Blanc massif. Connecting two of Chamonix's most popular attractions, the Aiguille du Midi and the Mer de Glace, this classic trail provides an unforgettable alpine experience. The route traverses along the southern slopes of the valley, beneath the towering peaks of Mont Blanc, and is accessible via cable car and cogwheel train, making it suitable for hikers of various levels. Expect stunning scenery, including views of the Aiguilles Rouges, the Mer de Glace, and the dramatic peaks surrounding Chamonix.
A brief summary to Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix
- Panoramic View, Unnamed Road, 74400, 74400, Chamonix, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Purchase the Mont Blanc Multipass for cost-effective access to the Aiguille du Midi cable car, Montenvers railway, and other attractions in the Chamonix Valley.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike and dress in layers, as mountain conditions can change rapidly.
- Consider hiking the Grand Balcon Nord from mid-June to the end of October when the lift systems are fully operational.
- Take the variant route via Signal Forbes for panoramic views of the Mer de Glace and surrounding peaks.
- Book your Aiguille du Midi cable car tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
Getting There
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Cable Car & Train
To reach the Grand Balcon Nord, begin by taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car from Chamonix to the Plan de l'Aiguille mid-station. A round-trip ticket for the Aiguille du Midi cable car costs approximately €81 for adults and €68.90 for children. From Plan de l'Aiguille, the Grand Balcon Nord trail begins. After hiking to Montenvers, descend to Chamonix via the Montenvers railway. A one way ticket on the Montenvers train costs €31 for adults and €26.40 for children. Alternatively, a 'Ticket Voyage Mer de Glace' (Train + Gondola + Ice Cave) costs €39.50 for adults. Consider booking a reservation for the Aiguille du Midi cable car for €2 per person, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. The Grépon car park near the Aiguille du Midi cable car station charges for parking.
Discover more about Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Balmat and Saussure
2.6 km
Honoring the pioneers of Mont Blanc's first ascent, a symbol of mountaineering history in the heart of Chamonix.
French Alps
9.6 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
10.1 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
10.4 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
10.4 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Italian Alps at Pavillon du Mont Fréty, a mountain cabin offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Skyway Monte Bianco
12.0 km
Soar to new heights at Skyway Monte Bianco, where breathtaking views and alpine adventures await in the heart of the Italian Alps.
Notre Dame de Guérison sanctuary
12.0 km
Discover peace and breathtaking beauty at Notre Dame de Guérison Sanctuary in the heart of Aosta Valley, a serene retreat for all travelers.
Auberge De La Maison
12.3 km
Discover the luxurious Auberge De La Maison in Courmayeur, where alpine charm meets modern comfort for an unforgettable mountain getaway.
Rifugio Walter Bonatti
12.8 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
13.5 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
14.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Col Chécruit in Aosta Valley, a scenic spot that captivates with stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Rifugio Maison Vieille
14.2 km
Experience the charm and adventure of Rifugio Maison Vieille, the ultimate mountain cabin retreat in the heart of Aosta Valley's stunning landscapes.
La Loge du Massif
14.5 km
Savor exquisite local cuisine and refreshing drinks at La Loge du Massif, set against the stunning backdrop of Courmayeur's majestic mountains.
Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc
14.5 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at the Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc, your perfect retreat in the Italian Alps.
Hall of Courmayeur
14.8 km
Experience the charm and culture of Courmayeur at the Hall of Courmayeur, a beautiful alpine town hall surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chamonix Amusement Park
2.0 km
Experience the thrill of rides and stunning alpine views at Chamonix Amusement Park, a top family-friendly destination in the French Alps.
Glaciorium
2.1 km
Explore Glaciorium in Chamonix: An enchanting museum dedicated to the wonders of glaciers and the stunning beauty of the Mont Blanc region.
Grotte de glace
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Grotte de Glace, an enchanting ice cave in Chamonix, showcasing stunning frozen formations and picturesque alpine views.
Mer de Glace
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mer de Glace in Chamonix, a stunning glacier offering adventure, scenic views, and an unforgettable alpine experience.
chemin du pied du grepon
2.1 km
Discover the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Chemin du Pied du Grépon, where mountaineering history meets family fun amidst stunning alpine scenery, offering adventure for every traveler.
Pierre d'Orthaz
2.1 km
Discover Pierre d'Orthaz in Chamonix: a premier bouldering destination with stunning Mont Blanc views, offering climbers and nature lovers an unforgettable alpine experience.
Viaduc de Montenvers
2.1 km
Ascend to the Mer de Glace via the historic Viaduc de Montenvers for panoramic alpine views, glacial exploration, and a journey through time on the iconic cogwheel railway.
Train à crémaillère chamonix
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Mer de Glace glacier via the Train à crémaillère Chamonix, an unforgettable journey in the heart of the French Alps.
Mont-Blanc Natural Resort
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Mont-Blanc Natural Resort, a year-round destination for skiing, hiking, and stunning Alpine scenery in the heart of the French Alps, offering unforgettable adventures.
Point pédestre
2.3 km
Escape to tranquility in Chamonix's Point Pédestre: Breathtaking Mont Blanc views, peaceful walks, and a perfect gateway to alpine adventures await in this serene park.
Place du Poilu
2.4 km
A serene park in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Place du Poilu offers a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance, honoring the town's fallen soldiers amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Le parc Couttet
2.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Le Parc Couttet in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.
Compagnie du Mont Blanc
2.5 km
Ascend to the heart of the Alps with Compagnie du Mont Blanc. Breathtaking views, thrilling experiences, and access to high-mountain adventures await.
Musée Alpin Chamonix
2.5 km
Discover the captivating history of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc at the Musée Alpin, showcasing alpine culture, mountaineering legends, and the evolution of a world-renowned destination.
Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace
2.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history at Les Moulins de la Mer de Glace, a premier tourist attraction in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
Essential places to dine
Albert 1er Restaurant
2.3 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Albert 1er Restaurant in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking alpine beauty.
La Fine Bouche
2.4 km
Experience authentic French dining in Chamonix at La Fine Bouche – where exquisite flavors meet warm hospitality.
Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval
2.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and local brews at Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval in scenic Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
L'index Chamonix
2.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at L'Index Chamonix—where fine dining meets cultural vibrancy in stunning Mont Blanc surroundings.
MUMMA
2.5 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of Asian and French cuisine at MUMMA in Chamonix - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Le Carrousel
2.5 km
Experience exceptional Alpine cuisine at Restaurant Le Carrousel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - where every meal is a journey through flavor.
La Télécabine
2.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with breathtaking alpine views at La Télécabine in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
Restaurant Akashon
2.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine amidst stunning mountain views at Restaurant Akashon in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
Josephine Restaurant
2.6 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Josephine Restaurant in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, offering delightful dishes and stunning alpine views.
Le Monchu
2.6 km
Experience authentic French fondue and raclette at Le Monchu, nestled in scenic Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - a culinary delight amidst breathtaking mountains.
Restaurant Le Cap-Horn
2.6 km
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Rose Du Pont
2.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Rose Du Pont in Chamonix - where traditional flavors meet locally brewed delights amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Le Vista - Restaurant Chamonix
2.6 km
Discover Le Vista in Chamonix – where authentic French cuisine meets stunning alpine views.
Bizes
2.6 km
Discover the exquisite blend of barbecue, gluten-free, and vegan delights at Bizes in Chamonix - where every meal tells a story.
JOIA by Pizzeria Des Moulins
2.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at JOIA by Pizzeria Des Moulins - where every pizza tells a story amid stunning Alpine views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Le Coffre À Bijoux
2.4 km
Explore the exquisite jewelry and stylish handbags at Le Coffre À Bijoux, a hidden gem in Chamonix, capturing the essence of mountain elegance.
Concept Pro Shop Chamonix
2.5 km
Discover premier ski rentals and expert advice at Concept Pro Shop Chamonix, your gateway to an unforgettable alpine adventure.
La Trace
2.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at La Trace in Chamonix, the perfect spot to find lasting memories of your alpine adventure.
L'Univers du Bonbon
2.5 km
Discover the sweet world of L'Univers du Bonbon in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - a candy store bursting with delightful French confections.
Magasin Rossignol Chamonix
2.5 km
Explore Magasin Rossignol Chamonix for top-notch sportswear, ski gear, and outdoor apparel in the heart of the Alps, perfect for every adventure.
Timberland Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
2.5 km
Discover Timberland in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for stylish outdoor apparel and footwear, perfect for your alpine adventures.
Snowleader Chamonix
2.5 km
Discover top-quality sporting goods in Chamonix, the gateway to the Alps, at Snowleader – your one-stop shop for outdoor adventures.
High Society CBD Chamonix Mont-Blanc
2.6 km
Explore High Society CBD in Chamonix Mont-Blanc for premium cannabis products amidst the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps.
Les Sonnettes SNC
2.6 km
Explore Les Sonnettes in Chamonix for a unique selection of smoking accessories and thoughtful gifts amidst stunning alpine scenery.
A la Ville de Venise
2.6 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.
POP IN CHAMONIX MONT BLANC
2.6 km
Discover chic women's clothing and unique alpine fashion at POP IN CHAMONIX MONT BLANC, your stylish retreat in the heart of Chamonix.
Odlo Store Chamonix
2.6 km
Explore the best outdoor gear at Odlo Store Chamonix, where adventure meets quality in the heart of the Alps.
Arpin
2.6 km
Explore Arpin in Chamonix for unique, high-quality fashion accessories that reflect the spirit of the Mont-Blanc region.
Magasin Cocktail Scandinave Chamonix
2.6 km
Explore Magasin Cocktail Scandinave in Chamonix for exquisite Scandinavian furniture that beautifully complements the Alpine lifestyle.
Le Soyi à Borgate
2.6 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of knives and unique gifts at Le Soyi à Borgate in the enchanting Chamonix-Mont-Blanc region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Restaurant Les Planards
2.0 km
Experience the warm ambiance and delightful local cuisine at Bar Restaurant Les Planards, a culinary treasure in the heart of Chamonix.
Bar le QuartzBar
2.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar le QuartzBar, a perfect lounge in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for relaxing after exploring the beautiful Alps.
Heliopic Bar
2.5 km
Discover the elegant Heliopic Bar in Chamonix, where fine drinks meet stunning alpine views in a cozy atmosphere.
Couleur Café
2.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at Couleur Café in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a must-visit bar and restaurant.
La Terrasse
2.6 km
Discover La Terrasse in Chamonix - a perfect blend of stunning vistas and delightful cuisine in the heart of the Alps.
Epsylon - Chamonix
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chamonix at Epsylon, where exquisite cocktails and delicious tapas come together in a lively atmosphere.
Les Caves Chamonix
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Les Caves Chamonix, a premier bar in the heart of the Alps, featuring exquisite drinks and live music.
Bar Du Moulin Chamonix
2.6 km
Discover Bar Du Moulin, a cozy bar in Chamonix offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning alpine scenery.
La soeur
2.6 km
Discover La Soeur, a charming bar in Chamonix offering local drinks and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after mountain adventures.
O'Byrne's
2.6 km
Experience the heart of Chamonix at O'Byrne's pub, where local brews and comfort food meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Barracuda Chamonix
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chamonix at Barracuda, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Alps.
Le Bistrot des Cristalliers
2.6 km
Discover the exquisite charm of Le Bistrot des Cristalliers, a premier wine bar in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offering a delightful selection of wines and local flavors.
Le Cabanon Chamonix
2.6 km
Experience the charm of Le Cabanon Chamonix, a cozy bar with exquisite drinks in the heart of the French Alps.
Bar'd Up
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar'd Up, the perfect bar in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to unwind and socialize after an adventure in the Alps.
L’Alibi bar
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at L’Alibi Bar in Chamonix, where handcrafted drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
