Mont Rouge

Mont Rouge is a 2,491 m summit above Nendaz in the Swiss canton of Valais. Part of the Pennine Alps, it rises south of Nendaz and Hérémence on the ridge separating their two valleys, north of the Rosablanche (3,336 m). Mont-Carré and Mont-Loéré stand next to it. It suits hikers who enjoy ridge walking and long views.

Where is Mont Rouge?

The peak sits above the Nendaz resort and the Siviez area, between the Val de Nendaz and the Val d'Hérémence. Lifts and a mountain road from Nendaz lead up to the trailheads. The Dixence and Cleuson lakes and dams lie close by, so the summit combines well with a wider day in the area.

How do you climb Mont Rouge?

The standard outing is a loop of roughly 8.1 km that takes about 3.5 hours, with around 565 m of ascent. It begins at the top of the Combatseline chairlift and follows ridgelines toward the summit. The Nendaz tourist office rates it 4 out of 5 for difficulty and warns that the ridge sections are exposed and technical, so anyone prone to vertigo should pick another walk. Mont Rouge also features in loops starting from Thyon and in longer routes from Siviez to Lac de Cleuson.

What can you see from the top?

One side looks over the Rhône valley toward the Bernese Alps. The other faces the small Gouilles d'Essertze lakes and the Val d'Hérens, with the Dent Blanche and Dent d'Hérens on the skyline. This all-round panorama is the main reward for the effort.

When should you go?

Hiking season generally runs from late spring to autumn, once snow has cleared from the paths. Bring sturdy boots and poles, and check the forecast first. Wet or icy rock makes the exposed stretches noticeably harder.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Mont Rouge? It stands at 2,491 m in the Pennine Alps of Valais.

Is the hike easy? No. The Combatseline loop is graded 4 on a 5-point scale and includes exposed, technical ridge passages.

How long does it take? The loop takes about 3.5 hours over roughly 8 km, with 565 m of climbing.

Is this the Mont Rouge near Mont Blanc? No. This is a separate summit above Nendaz, unrelated to Mont Rouge de Peuterey or Mont Rouge du Giétro.