The Walker’s Haute Route is a renowned trekking adventure that weaves its way through the breathtaking landscapes of the Alps, connecting the iconic peaks of Mont Blanc in France and the Matterhorn in Switzerland. This challenging two week hike offers outdoor enthusiasts an unforgettable experience through towering mountain vistas, charming alpine villages, and diverse terrains. The Walker’s Haute Route is not just a test of endurance but also a celebration of nature's grandeur, attracting adventurers from around the world to uncover the stunning beauty that lies between Chamonix and Zermatt.

When to Hike

Ideal timing for trekking the Walker’s Haute Route is July through September, with the best month to hike being August. Earlier in the year, snow still covers some of the high altitude paths along the trek.

Trail Difficulty 

The Walker’s Haute Route is one of the most strenuous hikes Pygmy Elephant offers. Spanning 100 miles over two weeks and rising to almost 10,000 feet in elevation, this trail requires significant training and altitude acclimation. 

 

Accommodations

This itinerary blends the comfort of private room accommodations in hotels with the authentic experience of staying in mountain huts, where you'll share dormitories with fellow hikers.

 

Wildlife Viewing

Anticipate encountering marmots, chamois, and ibex along the trails as you explore this region.

Ibex on the Walker's Haute Route

The Trek

 

Day 1: Arrive in Chamonix

Your first day is spent resting and enjoying all Chamonix has to offer! You can visit The Alpine Museum, try fondue, or ride on the Chamonix Alpine Coaster before starting your trek the next day.

 

Day 2: Argentière to Col de la Forclaz

Begin your day with a bus journey from Chamonix to Argentière. From this point, embark on a scenic hike through a lush forest leading to Le Tour, where you'll catch your first glimpse of the day's challenge: Col de Balme. Beyond this pass lies Switzerland and the path to Zermatt. For those wishing to conserve energy, you have the option to take the cable car from Le Tour to Charamillon and then the chairlift to Autannes, bringing you close to Col de Balme. Upon reaching the col, you'll cross your first border and set foot in Switzerland. Here, you'll find an ancient shelter, which, despite its strategic location, is in a state of disrepair and not always staffed. Descend into Switzerland, heading towards your accommodation at Col de la Forclaz.

 Argentiére to Trient Elevation Chart

Day 3: Col de la Forclaz to Champex-LAC

Walker's Haute Route Glacier

 

The elevated path, leading through Fenêtre d’Arpette at 8,747 feet (2,666 meters), is best attempted under favorable weather conditions. Descending from the pass involves some scrambling and dealing with loose scree, so caution is essential. As a reward for your hard work, it provides stunning views of the Trient Glacier, a captivating sight.

Col de la Forclaz to Champex Elevation Chart

Day 4: Champex D’en Haut to Le Chable

This stage features minimal elevation changes but offers a unique insight into Swiss life. As you leave the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) behind, the number of hikers will decrease significantly, highlighting the solitude of this trail. Setting off from Champex, take the forested path towards Sembrancher, just over 2.5 hours. After passing through the charming stone-walled village, continue on to Le Chable. 

 Champex to Le Chable Elevation Chart

 

Day 5: Le Chable to Cabane du Mont Fort

Day 5 of the Walker’s Haute Route involves a significant elevation gain, so anticipate a consistent climb spanning 5.6 miles (9 km). Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Combin Massif, with its several impressive peaks rising above 13,120 feet (4,000 meters). To bypass most of the elevation gain, you have the option to take two cable cars: one from Le Chable to Verbier, and another from Verbier to Les Ruinettes. This reduces the remaining climb to just 853 feet (260 meters), which can be completed in just over an hour.

 

Le Chable to Cabane du Mont Fort Elevation Chart 

 

Day 6: Cabane du Mont Fort to Cabane de Prafleuri

This undoubtedly scenic section between the two cabins is marked by its rugged terrain, featuring exposed areas and steep inclines. Early in the season, it might be wise to skip this stage if you lack mountaineering experience. However, should you decide to brave this route, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Combin Massif, sweeping panoramas, and possibly even a glimpse of some ibex. 

 

Cabane du Mont Fort to Cabane du Prafleuri Elevation Chart

 

 

Day 7: Cabane de Prafleuri to Arolla

Walker's Haute Route Day 7

In this challenging section, you'll traverse two mountain passes. The first col is relatively easy to cross, and within 30 minutes, you'll catch your first sight of the Matterhorn. Upon reaching Col des Roux, you'll be treated to views of Lac des Dix below. Approaching the second col, Riedmatten, you’ll navigate through some scree and a steep gradient. Four ladders are available near the col to help bypass this difficult section, but they require a steady head for heights. Afterward, prepare for a demanding 2,954 feet (900 meters) descent to Arolla that will truly test your knees.

Cabne de Prafleuri to Arolla Elevation Chart

Day 8: Arolla to Les Haudères

Today's journey is short, yet still captivating. While there are no cols to cross, and after the initial 1.5 hours, the remainder of the trek primarily involves descending. Take this opportunity to relish the meadows and lakes you'll encounter along the way. Departing from Arolla, if the weather is unfavorable, you can opt to stroll along the river on the valley floor. However, if conditions allow, ascend through the forest until you reach an exposed section above the hamlet of Satarma, crossing two footbridges before arriving at La Bleu in about 1.5 hours. From there, begin your day's descent, passing through La Gouille en route to Les Haudères.

Arolla to Les Hauderes Elevation ChartDay 9: Les Haudères to Cabane de Moiry      

The ascent from Molignon to Cabane de Moiry on the Walker’s Haute Route is lengthy, so prepare for the challenge ahead. However, this stretch offers its rewards, including several "tarns," or small mountain lakes, that you'll encounter. As you near the end of your trek, you'll be greeted by the sight of the glacier, after which the hut is named. Cabane de Moiry boasts a glass-walled dining room that shows stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. 

If you prefer to bypass most of this stage, you can opt for a series of buses and trains to "Parking du Glacier," followed by a 1.5-hour hike to the hut. Alternatively, to avoid approximately 705 feet (215 meters) of elevation gain, take two buses from Molignon to La Sage.

 

Day 10: Cabane de Moiry to Zinal

Weisshorn: Walkers Haute Route

 

While you'll be crossing another high pass in this section, the climb isn't as strenuous as other high-altitude stages. The real challenge comes with the descent, which will take you from over 9,186 feet (2,800 meters) down to under 5,577 feet (1,700 meters). Upon reaching Col de Sorebois, you'll be greeted by the stunning views of Val de Zinal and the majestic Weisshorn (14,780 feet / 4,505 meters), a companion that will accompany you for much of the rest of the trek. Just about 98 feet (30 meters) from the col, there's an option to ease the strain on your knees by taking the cable car from Sorebois down to the valley floor of Zinal.

 

 

 Cabane du Moiry to Zinal Elevation Chart

 

 

Day 11: Zinal to Gruben

Today's trek on the Walker’s Haute Route takes you into the secluded Turtmanntal valley, a hidden gem far from the tourist trail. This region offers a serene and authentic experience of Germanic Switzerland, so brush up on your Deutsch to fully appreciate this picturesque setting. The hike includes Forcletta, a challenging pass, especially in inclement weather or snowy conditions. A highlight of this stage is the belvedere en route to Barneuza. 

 

 ZINAL TO GRUBEN Elevation Chart

 

Day 12: Gruben to Grächen

This will be an unforgettable day, weather permitting. The hike takes you over the rocky terrain of the Augustbordpass, standing at 9,495 feet (2,894 meters). Along the "Twära" spur, you'll enjoy stunning views of Switzerland's highest peak, Dom (14,911 feet / 4,545 meters). Many consider this section of the trail to offer the best views of the entire tour. Be cautious in the few exposed areas, and mind your step. Upon reaching Jungen, you can opt to take the cable car down to St. Niklaus. From there, Grächen is situated across the valley. 

 

  GRUBEN TO GRÄCHEN Elevation Chart

 

 

Day 13: Grächen to Europa Hut

The renowned Europaweg (Europa Trail), while not the highest in altitude, is considered the most treacherous section of the tour. Spanning two days between Grächen and Zermatt, this route poses risks due to its exposed landscapes and the potential for rockfalls and landslides. Those uncomfortable with heights or unsure of their footing should avoid this path. In inclement weather, it is advisable to take the valley route to Zermatt instead. However, in favorable conditions, this stage offers unparalleled views of the Matterhorn. The most dangerous section lies about 2.25 hours from Gasenried, near the "Grosse Graben combe." Beyond this point, you'll reach the stage's highest point at 8,825 feet (2,690 meters), after which a two-hour trek will bring you to the welcoming Europa Hut.

 

GRÄCHEN TO EUROPA HUT Elevation Chart

 

Day 14: Europa Hut to Zermatt

Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge: Walkers Haute Route

 

Your final day on the tour is a long day, but it will make you feel like you've truly conquered this challenging alpine trek. Some highlights include the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge, the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, spanning nearly half a kilometer (1,620 feet / 494 meters) and hanging 279 feet (85 meters) above the valley floor. A few charming hamlets along the way will make the final stretch to Zermatt even more enjoyable. If you'd like to cut your journey short, you have the option to take the funicular from Sunnegga down to the valley or an electric bus from Winkelmatten to Zermatt.

 

 

 Europa Hut to Zermatt Elevation Chart

 

The Walkers Haute Route is not just a hike; it's a testament to human endurance, a celebration of nature's grandeur, and a journey of self-discovery. From the summits of the Alps to the charming villages nestled in the valleys, each step will be a lesson in resilience and wonder. Completing this extraordinary adventure will be a feat that stays with you forever.