Haute Route
Chamonix – ZermattThe Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt is one of the world’s most iconic ski touring traverses. Linking two legendary mountain towns, the route crosses the heart of the Alps through a spectacular landscape of glaciers, high alpine passes and classic mountain huts.
For more than a century, ski tourers have travelled between Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, making the Haute Route one of the great alpine journeys. The combination of world-famous peaks, exceptional scenery and rewarding ski touring has earned the route its legendary status.
Several route variations are possible, ranging from the classic Verbier itinerary to more remote alternatives. Together we select the route that best matches the group’s experience, ambitions and current mountain conditions.
Whether your goal is to complete a lifelong ski touring dream or simply experience one of the Alps’ most celebrated traverses, the Haute Route remains an unforgettable mountain journey.
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PROGRAM
Several route variations of the Haute Route are possible. The itinerary below describes the classic Verbier route, linking Chamonix and Zermatt through some of the most spectacular ski touring terrain in the Alps.
The route is adapted according to weather, snow and mountain conditions. Additional preparation or reserve days can be arranged when appropriate.
DAY 1
Arrival in Geneva and transfer to Chamonix. Overnight stay in Chamonix.
DAY 2
The traverse begins with a spectacular journey from Argentière across the Swiss border via Col du Chardonnet and Fenêtre de Saleina. Overnight at Trient Hut.
DAY 3
Descent to Champex followed by a transfer to Verbier. Using the lifts to gain altitude, we continue across Col de la Chaux and Col de Momin before descending to Cabane de Prafleuri.
DAY 4
A classic Haute Route stage crossing Col des Roux and Lac des Dix before reaching the beautifully situated Cabane des Dix.
DAY 5
One of the highlights of the traverse. A magnificent ascent of Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m) followed by a descent to Cabane des Vignettes, one of the most iconic mountain huts in the Alps.
DAY 6
Crossing high alpine terrain towards Cabane Bertol. The hut’s spectacular position above the surrounding glaciers offers one of the most memorable overnight stays of the entire journey.
DAY 7
The final stage towards Zermatt. Passing beneath the Matterhorn and surrounded by many of the highest peaks in the Alps, we complete one of the world’s most celebrated ski traverses. Transfer back to Chamonix.
DAY 8
Departure day.
EXTENDED PROGRAM
Additional preparation days can be arranged before departure. These days are often used for equipment checks, avalanche safety review, ski touring preparation or a guided day on the Vallée Blanche to ensure the group is fully prepared for the traverse.
We are happy to arrange “Haute Route” Chamonix-Zermatt from mid Mars to beginning of May.
Check if we have this activity already planned in the booking calendar, if not make a request and we will get back to you soon.
TRAVEL
Flights to Geneva and transfers to Chamonix are not included.
ACCOMODATION
Mountain huts and hotels depending on the chosen itinerary.
LEVEL REQUIRED
Participants should have previous off-piste and ski touring experience and be comfortable skiing in variable snow conditions. A good level of fitness is required, with several consecutive days of ski touring in high alpine terrain.
GROUP SIZE
Maximum 6 guests per guide. All departures are led by IFMGA Mountain Guides.
DURATION
• 5–7 days of ski touring
• Multi-day alpine traverse
PERIOD
Mid March – Early May.
INSURANCE
Participants are responsible for arranging appropriate travel, accident and rescue insurance.
PRICE
From CHF 2,000 per person
Included:
• IFMGA Mountain Guide
• 5–7 days of guided ski touring
Not Included:
• Travel to Chamonix
• Accommodation and mountain huts
• Lift passes and local transportation
• Lunches and beverages
• Ski touring equipment
• Travel and rescue insurance
Technical Equipment
Please contact us if you need to rent anything of the list below.
- Ski-touring equipment; skis, skins, ski-crampons, poles, ski-touring boots
- Transceiver, probe, showel
- Crampons, harness, ice-axe
OTHER EQUIPMENT
- Backpack 35-40 liters
- Headlamp
- Warm hat & sunhat
- Warm jacket
- Underlayer, mid layer, extra socks
- Jacket (wind and waterproof)
- Trousers (wind and waterproof)
- Thin and warm gloves
- Ski-googles and sunglasses
- Water bottle 1 liter
- Thermos
- Snacks, Bars
- Blister kit & painkillers: Including Compeed blister plasters and elastoplast or similar
- Sunscreen
- Earplugs: If you sleep together in the dormitory at the mountain station and there is a lot of movement.
- Sleeping sheet for the huts