Spectacular High Alps Traverse from Chamonix to Zermatt

Hiking the Haute Route

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"The experience of a lifetime. The scenery is mind-blowing. Outstanding Trip Leaders: hard-working, meticulous, good fun. Every day was special—even the rest days!" Jon and Audrey Van Coller, Cowies Hill, South Africa

The fabled Haute Route is the highlevel hiking traverse that follows glaciers, tarns, meadows, and craggy mountain passes from Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland. The sport of mountaineering was born here in the 19th century and a look at the 360degree panorama explains why: ten of the twelve highest peaks in the Alps, including Mont Blanc and the instantly recognizable spire of the Matterhorn, rise along this magnificent route. As we cross high trails from France to Switzerland, we stay in small hotels and two spectacularly situated hikein lodges where we meet hikers and climbers from around the world. Most departures have three Trip Leaders, allowing for great camaraderie and an unparalleled level of service.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-2
Chamonix Valley / Mont Blanc

Set at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix has been a climbing and skiing center for over 100 years. Our spectacular warmup hike brings us beautiful views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley.

Days 3-4
Argentiere / Col de la Forclaz / Champex

The Haute Route is the quintessential high Alps traverse. We climb no higher than about 9,600 feet, yet the mountain scenery is incredible. From Argentiere, we ascend through woodlands to the Col de Balme, crossing the border between France and Switzerland on foot. Hiking alongside the massive Trient Glacier, we ascend to the rocky notch of the Fenetre d’Arpette (8,800'). Our descent brings us into the wild and rugged Val d’Arpette.

Days 5-8
Mont Fort / Prafleuri / Arolla

A cable car carries us to the magnificently situated Mont Fort Lodge, where we set off on a rugged cross-country hike in one of the most remote areas in the Alps. We then follow a little-used trail above 8,000 feet, crossing three alpine passes and the glacial wilds known as the “grand desert” to reach the Prafleuri Lodge. On a hike over the Col des Roux, we may see ibex, and at the Col de Reidmatten (9,577'), we get our first glimpse of the Matterhorn. We descend to Arolla, a tiny village at the foot of glaciers.

Days 9-10
Grimentz / Gruben / Valais Canton

Ascending flower-filled pastures, we cross the Col de Torrent, with stunning views including the Dent Blanche (14,290'). From the picture-postcard village of Grimentz, we hike in the shadow of peaks including the mighty Schwartzhorn, Gletschorn, and Weisshorn to Gruben in the German-speaking part of the Valais.

Days 11-13
St. Niklaus / Zermatt

Our hike across the Augstbordpass (9,495') brings some of the best views in all Switzerland and a spectacular descent to Zermatt, surrounded by towering peaks including the crooked pyramid of the Matterhorn. Zermatt options include a hike to Hornli Hut, starting point for Matterhorn climbs.Depart on Day 13.

Questions? Email Us	Download Full Itinerary	Reserve This Trip

Tour Costs $4495 (12-14 members) $4695 (9-11 members) $4995 (5-8 members) Single supplement: $690 *Prices are for 2008 dates only **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

Trip Rating Rating Explanation

Departures & Leaders

Note: There may be up to 3 leaders on any
departure. Please call for details.

Route Map

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