Lac de la Persevérance

Lac de la Persévérance is a high-altitude alpine lake sitting at roughly 2,460 m, inside the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, in the municipality of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Haute-Savoie, France. It lies above the far more popular Lac Blanc, which keeps it quieter and makes it a target mainly for seasoned hikers after solitude and a close-up view of the Mont Blanc range.

Where exactly is the lake?

The lake occupies a rocky, mineral basin at the foot of the Aiguilles Rouges massif, above Lac Blanc (2,352 m) and the Lacs des Chéserys (2,210 m). It marks the highest point on the popular loop that strings the three lakes together. Its water runs noticeably darker than Lac Blanc's, and far fewer walkers make it this far.

How do you get there?

The usual starting point is the Col des Montets (about 1,461 m), on the road linking Chamonix and Argentière, near Tré-le-Champ. From there the path first climbs to Lac Blanc, then branches off toward the upper lake along a rockier, steeper stretch that crosses scree and a few exposed sections. Depending on the exact loop chosen, the round trip covers roughly 12.6 to 13.7 km with 1,200-1,500 m of cumulative elevation gain. The ascent alone typically takes 3 to 4 hours, and the full there-and-back outing runs 6 to 8 hours.

What should you know before setting out?

The route is rated difficult. Several rock steps are fitted with ladders and metal rungs, and some stretches call for sure footing and no fear of exposure. Snow patches can linger on the upper sections well into early summer. The best window to hike is June through September, once the trail has cleared. Sturdy boots, trekking poles, and enough water are essential — there is little to no water source along the way.

What views does it offer?

The lake sits in a stark, rocky alpine setting ringed by the Aiguilles Rouges. The approach opens onto views back over the Chamonix valley and across toward the Mont Blanc massif. It suits hikers who have already done Lac Blanc and want a rawer, less crowded corner of the same reserve.

Frequently asked questions

Is this hike suitable for beginners? No. It is rated difficult, with rocky, exposed sections and fitted ladders, and it calls for good fitness and steady footing.

How long does it take to reach the lake? The climb from Col des Montets usually takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on fitness and the exact route taken.

When is the best time to go? Between June and September, once snow has cleared from the higher sections.

Is the lake close to Lac Blanc? Yes — Lac de la Persévérance sits higher and farther along the same popular loop through the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, past Lac Blanc.

Where does the trail start? Most commonly at Col des Montets, on the Chamonix–Argentière road near Tré-le-Champ.