Hiking in the Alps FAQs
Thinking about heading out on the vast network of trails in the Alps? From France and Switzerland‘s iconic hiking paths that have lured mountaineering for generations to the lesser-known trails in Slovenia and Italy, it can be daunting to know where to hike in the Alps, when to go, and what hiking in the Alps is actually like. Luckily for you, our team of Europe Specialists are experts in all things Alps and can go in-depth on the many nuances between trips and what to bring on your adventure. We narrowed down our list to the top 10 most frequently asked questions to help you better prepare for your Alps adventure.
1. Do I need prior hiking experience?
Yes. We have a number of trips that range from moderate hikes all the way up to strenuous, with some trips offering different hiking options depending on your hiking level or preference that day. While no prior mountaineering or climbing experience is necessary, we do expect all travelers in the group to have prior hiking experience. On our Tour du Mont Blanc and Haute Route adventures, we hike as a group (with a leader at the front and back so you can be spaced out in between) and do not have alternative hiking options. Other trips in the Alps including Hiking in the Cortina Dolomites and Ultimate Dolomites offer a couple of options on most hiking days so you can choose a more moderate or strenuous level.
2. What should I bring with me?
Each day, you’ll head out on the trails with your hiking shoes, poles, daypack, and water bottle, while your luggage is transferred to your next destination. We provide each traveler with a detailed list of recommended clothes and equipment to pack. Be sure to check out our blog post, What to Pack for your Alps Hiking Adventure for more information on what to bring.
3. When is the best time to hike in the alps?
We time our hiking trips in the Alps during the summer months, and each side of the season offers different delights and challenges. The early summer months, June and July, are bursting with wildflowers and greenery and the days tend to be warmer. The trails experience more foot traffic this time and the mountain lodges see more visitors. In the late summer, August and September, the trails are less populated and days are cooler, but there is more chance for rain.
4. What are the trail conditions like?
On popular routes in France, Switzerland, and Italy, the trails are usually packed dirt at lower elevations and often much rockier at higher elevations, with occasional sections of glacial snow, loose scree, and large boulders. On some days you may encounter sections of narrow, exposed trails and occasionally, you will need to use your hands to scramble over and between a jumble of boulders. Some trips including our Haute Route trips require a section of climbing ladders, and others including Hiking in Slovenia, you’ll scramble over boulders and hike over tree roots and other trip hazards on a part of a hike. Most trails on every Alps trip are maintained and your experienced mountain guides are there to assist you if needed.
5. What are the accommodations like?
Much like our trips, the accommodations vary depending on the adventure. On our most popular Tour du Mont Blanc journey, we stay in an elegant hotel in Chamonix and a mix of mountain hotels that can be busy during the hiking season. These hikers’ hotels are not five-star resorts and are not always of uniform size or amenities, but what they offer in terms of location and a true essence of Alpine culture can’t be beaten. You’ll find our list of accommodations on each trip’s webpage and a hotel list will be sent to every hiker before your departure. Keep in mind if you’re traveling solo, single rooms are offered when possible, but those who pay the Single Supplement may have to share a room depending on the trip, departure, and property.
6. Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes. All diets are welcomed, but please keep in mind that some trips overnight in mountain lodges, which can have limited options. If you are concerned with dietary options, feel free to reach out to one of our Alps Specialists who can guide you to the right trip based on your needs.
7. What is the pace for hiking in the Alps and what if our group is a mix of hiking levels?
The pace really depends on the group. Trail conditions, weather, and the group’s level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing. One of the beauties of traveling under the guidance of expert Trip Leaders is they are able to properly assess these aspects and can accommodate accordingly. It’s important to note that our Alps trips fall between Trip Level 3-5, and every hiker is required to fill out our trip application stating their hiking level and previous hiking experience. We do our best to direct every traveler to a trip that fits their needs. While on the trip, we usually have three Trip Leaders, two of which are on the trail with hikers, which is great for those who hike at different paces.
8. Should I worry about the altitude?
Not necessarily, but we always recommend arriving at least a day prior to the start of the trip to acclimatize and adjust to the new time zone. We are able to book rooms for those arriving early at the group hotel. The highest elevation you’ll be hiking in is on our Haute Route adventures, which follow trails around 9,500′ elevation.
9. What if I feel too tired to trek?
For those who wish to skip a day’s hike, you are welcome to take our van support to the next destination. There is one exception on our Ultimate Haute Route trip that overnights at hike-in only mountain lodge that has no road access. And keep in mind that once you begin a day’s hike, you must finish because there aren’t service roads to pick up hikers mid-hike. We do however take time to stop and rest throughout our hikes so no hike should feel impossible, especially when you have our expert team to support you and glorious scenery to inspire you.
10. Do I need my passport handy when we are hiking across international borders?
Nope. This is another beauty of our Alps adventures. When you hike over border crossings on foot, you don’t have to worry about customs or long lines—just put one foot in front of the other and enjoy the next country!
