Grand Balcon Sud

Dogs Unknown

Features Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Most of this trail is relatively flat, easy, and very pleasant, but you won't believe it from the start! From the parking area, grind up the obvious switchbacks looming in front of you - nearly 2,000 vertical feet with not much of a break!

Once on the plateau, you'll be justly rewarded with incredible views of the entire Chamonix valley and likely see ibex that like to hang around here. Continue undulating up and down with nonstop views, trending downhill until you get to the Flegere ski area after rounding a major corner.

The ski area has bulldozed and manipulated the hills quite a bit, which is a shame, but the views remain as good, or better than, before. You could take the Flegere lift down to Chamonix here, or continue on to the Planpraz ski area.

Continuing on to Planpraz, you are now directly across from Aiguille du Midi in all its glory. The trail is well-signed with only minor difficulties, including a steep staircase. The trail has an inglorious ending in the ski area, where you can either hike down or take the lift like the vast majority of folks. While here, looks for paragliders, wingsuits, and BASE jumpers taking off from the Brevent lift high above.

Being in the Reserve Naturelle des Aiguilles Rouges, there are many ibex and particularly good wildflowers in the first section (before getting to the ski areas). Once in the ski areas, marmots abound.