Good morning, my family of 4 has a trip planned to Chamonix and Paris in early/mid June. We plan to arrive on June 11 but are reading that some of the lifts for hiking may not re-open for the summer season until Jun 15 so we are considering altering our route (inconvenient and not desirable). Does anyone have any insights about being in Chamonix in early June? We'd be going primarily to hike and see the glaciers. Thank you!
Posted by
white bear lake, mn, usa
59 posts
We were there in early May last year. It's true that the lifts are not open. But we were able to enjoy the town, take the lift to the top of Aiguille du Midi and also Montveners to see the glaciers. We enjoyed a walk around part of the lake stopping at some lovely hotels for coffee. We took the train to the little villages nearby.
I have traveled a fair bit and been to top of mountains in Switzerland, but I would say Mont Blanc was the highlight of any trip I've taken. Maybe it was because we finally saw the sun as we broke through the clouds. Maybe it was the feeling of being at the top of the world--maybe it was just Mont Blanc.
If I was to do it again and could swing it I would go later so I could enjoy more lifts and the areas around Chamonix. But if that doesn't work for your trip--I think you will find it immensely worthwhile.
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3302 posts
There is no lift to the top of Mont Blanc—- only experienced climbers reach the summit. So that was maybe the Aguille du Midi lift?
Posted by
Upstate NY, USA
932 posts
Most lifts should be open. https://www.montblancnaturalresort.com/en/annual-openings
You can also email them - [email protected], which is the tourist office, to confirm.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
227 posts
My wife and I arrived in Chamonix on June 9 last year, after our research showed most lifts opening by June 7. Some of the smaller, upper level lifts were still not operating, but there were enough available to provide plenty of hiking options. We were also in Chamonix several years earlier, arriving May 9. Even at that time, the Aiguille du Midi lift and Mer de Glace train were fully operational. Despite lifts being open, some trails were closed when we were there last year, either due to late snow cover or forest management operations. Make sure to check at the tourist office and, even better, the Maison de la Montagne, for up to date information about the trails once you arrive. They are located on either side of the Saint Bernard Church.