The Trail

One of the most popular hiking routes in the Alps, if not the world, and for very good reason. Epic views, 5-star singletrack, numerous refuges, and a proper adventure traversing three countries. As you whoop, smile and cheer your way around the tallest mountain in the western Alps, you’ll witness one of the most bemusing sights in the Alps. That of hundreds of emotionless, white faced hikers marching around Mont Blanc in a seemingly pointless crusade, the highlight of which is, staggeringly, the end. If only they brought a bike…

Anyway. If adventuring on a bike is your thing, particularly is you have a preference for quality descending, then this is a route for you. If you’re new to multi day adventures, it’s the prefect first mission, particularly if you plan it over three days. Each day isn’t too demanding, and the route overall isn’t too long. Route finding isn’t difficult on well used trails. Refuges and water points are plentiful, even hotels if that’s your thing. Mid-adventure escape is possible if things aren’t going to plan (ie. Mont Blanc Tunnel by bus between Chamonix and Courmayeur).

A friend and local guide gave me the route to this one, and while it remains on his itinerary, I won’t be sharing exact route info on this site. However, this hopefully still offers some inspiration to some of you out there, as well as offering a few useful hints and tips.

Tips:

• Don’t do it June to August – the number of hikers on the route will drive you insane. September or early October is optimal.
• Do it anti-clockwise – this goes against what you’ll find with most guide companies which makes absolutely no sense from my experience, especially if doing the 3 day variant, eliminating some of the best sections of descent.
• Start in Chamonix – If you’re going anti-clockwise, it gets the worst climb out the way first when fresh.
• Take the Les Houches telecabine – make your first climb on the ski lift, you’ll thank me later.