Grand Balcon Nord: A Panoramic Alpine Traverse
Hike the iconic Grand Balcon Nord for unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, the Mer de Glace, and the stunning Chamonix Valley.
The Grand Balcon Nord is a spectacular hiking trail in the French Alps near Chamonix, offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges, and the Mer de Glace glacier. Easily accessible via cable car, this moderate hike is a must-do for visitors seeking stunning alpine scenery.
A brief summary to Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix
- Panoramic View, Unnamed Road, 74400, 74400, Chamonix, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase a Mont Blanc MultiPass for cost-effective access to the Aiguille du Midi cable car and Montenvers Railway.
- Hike from Plan de l'Aiguille to Montenvers for a mostly downhill experience with Mont Blanc views.
- Consider the detour to Signal Forbes for enhanced views of the Mer de Glace.
- Check trail conditions with La Chamoniarde or the cable car staff, especially in spring or early summer.
- Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes as the trail can be rough and rocky.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Chamonix, take bus lines 1 or 2 to the 'Aiguille du Midi' bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Téléférique Aiguille du Midi. Purchase a round-trip ticket to Plan de l'Aiguille, the mid-station. In 2025, a round-trip ticket to Aiguille du Midi for an adult costs €87.70. A Mont Blanc Multipass may be more cost-effective if you plan to visit other attractions. From Plan de l'Aiguille, follow the hiking signs to Montenvers.
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Train
From Chamonix city center, walk towards the main train station. Adjacent to it, you'll find the separate Montenvers train station. Purchase a roundtrip ticket to Montenvers - Mer de Glace. In 2025, expect to pay around €37.50 for a roundtrip ticket. After arriving at the Montenvers train station, follow the signs for the Grand Balcon Nord trail towards Plan de l'Aiguille.
Discover more about Grand Balcon Nord, Chamonix
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Lac Blanc
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Mont Blanc de Courmayeur
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Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden
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Pavillon du Mont Fréty
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Skyway Monte Bianco
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Col Chécruit
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La Loge du Massif
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Chamonix Amusement Park
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Mer de Glace
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Téléphérique Mer de Glace
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Glaciorium
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Grotte de glace
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Viaduc de Montenvers
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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