Where will you find this route?
Walker’s Haute Route (alternative route)
Tour du Mont Blanc (alternative route)
Trail Description: A more direct route to Champex Lac that bypasses most accommodation options in the Trient valley. From Col de Balme, this route leaves the main trail (which descends to Le Peuty) by branching south and gradually climbing higher to reach Refuge Les Grands. The route then descends to the valley below, offering a unique perspective of the Trient glacier and a magnificent rock-carved staircase which is a standalone highlight.
*Please note that the description is written from an
Eastward hiking perspective for the Walker’s Haute Route
Clockwise hiking perspective for the Tour du Mont Blanc
Difficulty: Mountain Trail with some boulder crossings.
Are there any other route options? Yes, there are two;
Via Chieuset: Diverts at Col de Balme and rejoins at either Chalet du Glacier next to the Trient river or Col de la Forclaz depending on the subsequent route choice
Les Tseppes trail: Diverts at either Col de Balme and rejoins at either Chalet du Glacier next to the Trient river or Col de la Forclaz depending on the subsequent route choice
Transport Shortcuts: No
Considerations:
There is only 1 accommodation option on this section - Refuge Les Grands - and they don’t provide meals. There is also only an outdoor shower, but it has one of the best views of the Trient glacier from the toilet :)
Choosing this option may reduce your overall itinerary by one day as it is shorter than the main trail via Le Peuty