Aiguillette des Houches

Aiguillette des Houches is a rocky summit rising to 2,285 metres above Les Houches, part of the Aiguilles Rouges range within the Mont Blanc massif. It is regarded as one of the finest viewpoints in the Chamonix valley, reached via a trail that connects with the Tour du Mont Blanc route.

How do you get there?

The classic approach starts at the Parc de Merlet above Les Houches. From there the trail climbs past the Refuge de Bel Lachat, crosses the wet meadows of the Carlaveyron plateau, and reaches the summit of Aiguillette des Houches, with the descent looping back via the Chalets de Chailloux. An alternative approach starts from the hamlet of Bettey. The full loop runs roughly 15 km with about 1,300 m of elevation gain, taking around 6–7 hours — a demanding but achievable day out for fit, experienced hikers. Dogs are not permitted on the trail.

What will you see?

The climb is rewarded with a full 360-degree panorama. On one side stand the steep cliffs of the Fiz range and the peaks of the Aiguilles Rouges; on the other, the entire Mont Blanc massif unfolds. Looking south, the view takes in nearly the whole Mont Blanc traverse ridge: the Aiguille du Goûter, Dôme du Goûter, Mont Maudit, Mont Blanc du Tacul and Aiguille du Midi. Along the way, the route passes close to the Bossons Glacier — one of the largest icefalls in Europe — clearly visible from the path through the Chailloux mountain pastures. The Carlaveyron plateau is also worth a stop: a nature reserve dotted with small pools tucked between rocky outcrops, offering a calm contrast to the rugged peaks surrounding it.

When should you visit?

The hiking season runs from May to September, when the trail is most reliably clear of snow and safest to walk. On the Carlaveyron plateau, bivouacking is permitted between 7 pm and 9 am, making the area an appealing option for hikers planning an overnight stay under canvas.

Who is this route for?

Given the distance and elevation gain, the hike to Aiguillette des Houches suits experienced mountain walkers with solid fitness rather than casual strollers, though shorter sections of the lower trail are sometimes used as easier outings by less seasoned hikers. Its main draw is the proximity to some of the most iconic Mont Blanc views available without any technical mountaineering.

Frequently asked questions

What is the altitude of Aiguillette des Houches? The summit sits at 2,285 metres above sea level.

How long does the hike to Aiguillette des Houches take? The full loop via Merlet, Bel Lachat and Chailloux covers about 15 km with roughly 1,300 m of elevation gain, typically taking 6–7 hours.

Can you bring a dog on the trail? No — dogs are not allowed on this route.

When is the best time to hike here? May through September, when the trail is most accessible and free of snow.

What can you see from the summit? A 360-degree panorama spanning the Mont Blanc massif (including the Aiguille du Goûter, Dôme du Goûter, Mont Maudit, Mont Blanc du Tacul and Aiguille du Midi) and the Fiz range with the Aiguilles Rouges on the opposite side.