From 2110 €
5 (6 Reviews)
13 Dates
I have some questions 🙋Skiing the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt is a quintessential alpine adventure that captivates skiers from around the globe. This iconic route is not just a journey; it’s a thrilling experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrains, and the rich history of the Alps.
One of the main reasons to ski the Haute Route Chamonix to Zermatt is the stunning scenery. As you traverse this high-altitude path, you’ll be surrounded by majestic peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Each turn reveals panoramic views that leave you in awe of nature's beauty, making every descent feel like a postcard moment.
Skiing the Haute Route is not just about the skiing; it’s about the camaraderie and shared experiences with fellow adventurers who share a passion for the mountains.
Additionally, the route is steeped in history and tradition. Choosing to ski the Haute Route Chamonix to Zermatt means embarking on an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, stunning vistas, and a sense of achievement.
The proposed itinerary is based on our over 20 years of guided tours along the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. We believe this combination of huts offers the highest chances of success in completing the tour. Over 7 days, we will traverse the Alps from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn, staying in fantastic huts, such as the Cabane Bertol, a true eagle's nest with incredible views. The descent of the Stockji Glacier on the last day, through a maze of crevasses and seracs, will be the greatest reward and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The day before the program starts, at 6 PM, meeting at the Gite La Montagne in Chamonix with the guide, who will introduce themselves, review your gear, and go over the week's program along with the latest weather forecast. If you're not staying at the Gite La Montagne, please make sure to attend the meeting with your gear (technical gear and clothing), so the guide can conduct a proper gear review and ensure you are well equipped for the week ahead.
In the morning, we’ll transfer to the Grand Montets ski lifts in the village of Argentière. Throughout the morning, we’ll enjoy some off-piste descents in this beautiful ski area before starting our Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt adventure.
The goal of this first part of the day is to ‘warm up’ our legs and get used to skiing with a heavier backpack, which we’ll carry during the Haute Route (although you’ll be amazed at how light the same pack will feel in the last days of the tour). We’ll also ensure that all participants have the necessary skiing skills for this adventure.
In the early afternoon, once we reach the Argentière Glacier in this breathtaking setting, we’ll make a relaxed ascent to the Argentière Hut, situated in a majestic environment right in front of the iconic north faces of Les Droites and Les Courtes, a legendary stage for great mountaineering achievements.
The first possible route involves an initial descent of the Argentière Glacier, followed by an ascent to the Col de Chardonnet. From here, you’ll descend a steep slope where the guide will lower you down to the other side (nothing to worry about, just sit back in your harness and let your guide handle everything!) to reach the Saleina Glacier in Swiss territory. After a short descent, we’ll put the skins back on our skis and ascend to the Fenêtre de Saleina (the final section may be done on foot, with or without crampons depending on the conditions). Once we reach the pass, the vast Trient Glacier will open up on the other side, where the two routes converge.
The alternative option (if the Swiss side of the Col de Chardonnet is too dry) is as follows: after a short descent of the Argentière Glacier (as in the first option), we’ll again put skins on and ascend to the base of the Col du Passon. Unlike the Col de Chardonnet, the Passon is steeper on the ascent side and gentler on the descent. We’ll put on crampons for the final 200-meter ascent to the pass. From there, we’ll glide down to the Tour Glacier, where we’ll put the skins back on and after a short traverse and one last ascent, we’ll reach the Col Supérieur du Tour, crossing into Switzerland onto the Trient Glacier, where the routes merge. After a short descent on the Trient Glacier, we’ll put the skis on our packs again and climb a brief 80-meter ascent to reach the famous Col des Écandies.
From here, the Val d’Arpette opens up—one of the gems of the ski Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. This north-facing valley often holds powder snow, and after a stunning 1,400-meter descent, we’ll arrive at our hotel in Champex.
Here we can enjoy a hot shower and a restorative dinner, reflecting on the beautiful and intense day we’ve just experienced.
With a short transfer, we’ll reach the Verbier ski area and take the cable car up to the Col des Gentianes. After a brief section on the piste, we’ll put our skins back on for a short ascent to the first pass of the day, the Col de la Chaux. From here, we’ll descend on the opposite side, then reapply the skins to climb the wide slopes of the Rosablanche Glacier. Just a few meters below the summit, we’ll leave our skis and hike (sometimes with crampons) to the beautiful summit of Rosablanche. From the top, we’ll start to catch sight of the Matterhorn, which is getting closer, and Mont Blanc, from which we set off a few days earlier, now far behind us. A stunning descent will then take us to the welcoming Cabane des Prafleuri, where we’ll spend the night.
Today, we’ll set off early. Although today’s elevation gain won’t be excessive, we will need to cross the slopes above the Grande Dixence, a massive reservoir. These east-facing slopes catch the sun’s rays early in the day. After a short climb to the Col des Roux behind the hut, we’ll begin our descent. There are two possible routes here: in ideal conditions with refrozen snow, it’s possible to take a long traverse without losing altitude, reaching directly the Pas des Chat at the end of the artificial lake. In the absence of refrozen snow or in years with low precipitation, it’s preferable to descend from the pass to the Barma alpine pasture and then follow the summer road that runs alongside Lac des Dix. From there, after putting the skins back on, we’ll skin along the lake to its end and reach the famous Pas des Chat.
This is a short but steep slope that can sometimes be tricky, often requiring the use of ski crampons to safely make the kick turns. Once this obstacle is behind us, we’ll climb steadily to the Cabane des Dix, a beautiful hut located right in front of Mont Blanc de Cheilon and its north face, a truly breathtaking spot.
Upon arrival at the Cabane des Dix, we can refuel with a delicious Swiss rosti and enjoy the panoramic views from the hut’s terrace. If mountain conditions allow, there’s also the option to climb the summit of La Luette, a peak located behind the hut, in the afternoon.
Today, we’re in for another early start. We’ll be climbing the highest peak of the Chamonix-Zermatt ski Haute Route, the Pigne d’Arolla, which at 3,796 meters is the highest point of the tour. After descending to the glacier, we’ll put on our skins and head up the Tsena Reifen Glacier. The most challenging section of today’s route is the ascent of the Mur de la Serpentine, a fairly steep section that gives access to the upper glacier plateau.
Often, this part is done while roped up or using ski crampons. It’s only a few dozen meters, and once we’ve passed it, we’ll reach the upper slopes, which are wide and gentle, allowing us to ski all the way to the summit of the Pigne d’Arolla. From the top, the views stretch 360 degrees over countless snow-capped peaks, with the Matterhorn now within reach.
We’ll then descend the southern slopes of the Pigne d'Arolla, tackling a small steeper section, which can sometimes be a bit tricky if icy (but nothing too difficult), and shortly after, we’ll arrive at the Cabane des Vignettes, a stunning hut perched at the end of a rocky ridge, with its beautiful terrace where we can rest and relax after this fantastic day.
Today we will embark on another day traversing the high glaciers. After a short descent from the Cabane des Vignettes, we will reach the flat Col de Charmontane, where we’ll put on our skins and ascend gentle slopes to reach the first pass of the day, the Col de l'Eveque, just as the first rays of sun start to warm us!
From here, we will descend onto the Arolla Glacier, briefly crossing in and out of the Italian border twice in just a few meters. We’ll continue our descent along the glacier, navigating a steep traverse to reach the Plans de Bertol.
From here, after reapplying the skins, we face a steady but challenging climb to the Col de Bertol. As we ascend the valley, we’ll catch sight of our next stop, the famous Cabane de Bertol, a true eagle's nest perched on a rocky ridge.
Leaving our skis at the base of the ridge, we’ll climb the steep ladders leading up to the hut (more impressive than difficult), arriving at the most spectacular location of all the huts we visit on the Haute Route. From the hut, we’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the Dent Blanche, the Matterhorn, and the glacier we’ll tackle the next day.
Today we will definitely face the most spectacular stage of the ski Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. The descent of the steps from the refuge will give us a nice wake-up call and prepare us for the day ahead! Once we reach the pass and put the skins back on, we will begin our ascent towards the Tête Blanche, the second-highest peak of our tour. The climb takes place in a majestic setting, and from the summit, a fantastic panorama of the nearby peaks will unfold: the Matterhorn, Dent Blanche, Dent d'Hérens.
From here, we will begin the descent of the spectacular Stockji Glacier, winding through a maze of crevasses and seracs. This is one of the most famous off-piste descents in the Alps, as it takes place in a breathtaking setting and is very long. From Tête Blanche to Zermatt, we will descend about 2,500 meters, with a memorable ski run.
At the end of the glacier, after crossing the moraine below the Matterhorn, we will reach, with a very short ascent, the pistes of Zermatt, from where we will glide down to the village itself, where our journey will end. Return to Chamonix by minibus.
The price includes:
The price does not include:
The meeting point for the course is at the Gite La Montagne, in Chamonix, at 6:00 PM on the day before the program begins. If you have not booked your stay at the Gite La Montagne, please attend the meeting with the guide bringing the gear you will use during the week (both technical equipment and clothing), so that we can conduct a proper gear review.
The most convenient airport for reaching Chamonix is Geneva.
From Geneva, there are several private services offering shared transport to Chamonix at affordable rates. Here are a few options:
To ski the Haute Route Chamonix to Zermatt, you need to be a seasoned ski tourer who have prior experience with multi-day or hut-to-hut tours.
You will need a combination of technical and physical skills:
Technical Skills:
Physical Fitness:
If you don’t have this kind of experience, we recommend our ski mountaineering week in Val di Rhemes as preparation for the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. Many of our clients have followed this path, signing up for the preparation week in the first year (with little prior ski mountaineering experience) and then successfully completing the Haute Route with ease the following year.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the required skill and fitness levels.
Training is essential for a safe and successful ski touring adventure like the Haute Route.
Over the years, we’ve seen that specific preparation significantly improves your experience and increases your chances of completing challenging tours. Ski touring demands a combination of fitness, endurance, and technical skills.
In the past, finding coaches specialized in mountain sports was difficult. However, the launch of Uphill Athlete by renowned alpinist Steve House revolutionized training for ski touring and other mountain activities.
That’s why we partnered with Steve and Uphill Athlete, the leaders in mountain sports training, to support your preparation. Their science-based methods and expert-designed plans have helped countless athletes develop the strength, endurance, and confidence needed for ski touring adventures.
When you sign up for any of our courses, you’ll receive a voucher for:
With this partnership, you’ll have access to the best tools and guidance to make your ski touring dream a reality. Start preparing today!
The Guiding Ratio is 1:6 (1 Guide to 6 Guests max) during all the course.
The huts along the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt open in early March and close around early May. It's difficult to pinpoint the best time within this window to do the Haute Route, as the weather in the Alps can be unpredictable. However, the itinerary we propose allows for the completion of the tour even in less-than-ideal weather conditions (particularly in the middle part of the week), though it's crucial to have good weather and conditions at both the beginning and end of the route, especially during the descent into Zermatt.
For the Ski Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt, ideally, lightweight skis are a great choice, but with enough width to provide excellent flotation in various types of snow (88mm - 95mm underfoot). As for bindings, modern lightweight bindings (such as Dynafit, ATK, and similar) are preferable. These types of bindings have now reached optimal levels of stability and performance. Having lightweight and high-performing skis and bindings is ideal for the Haute Route, as it will help you save valuable energy, even during sections where you'll need to carry the skis in your backpack, while also allowing you to fully enjoy the descents in all types of snow you will encounter.
Unfortunately, the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt is not particularly suited for split-boards, as there are several flat sections (such as the traverse on the Grand Dixence or the exit from the Stockji Glacier before rejoining the slopes of Zermatt). That said, it is possible to organize the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt by split-board, but only as a private group, provided your split-board experience is very solid and you have already completed similar tours (the physical requirements for the tour, which you can find below, still apply).
During the days, we recommend bringing easily digestible food (power bars, cereal bars, dried fruit, etc.). After the first two days, during the transfer to Verbier, it will be possible to stop at a supermarket for resupply. However, keep in mind that you might not find your favorite brand of bars, so it's essential to plan ahead and bring enough to last all seven days of the tour. It's important to strike the right balance between quantity and weight to avoid overloading your backpack. Also, remember that every time we reach a refuge, it will be possible to order something to eat (the most famous dish in Swiss refuges is rösti - with eggs, cheese, or plain), and you can also purchase chocolate bars or similar snacks.
In all the huts along the Haute Route, dinner typically consists of a first course (soup, pasta, etc.), a main course (such as meat), and dessert. Sometimes, a single dish is served instead (e.g., rice with meat) along with dessert. Portions are usually generous. All huts offer vegetarian options as well as alternatives for specific intolerances (gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.). In all huts, you will need to purchase bottled water.
All the huts where we will be staying accept credit cards, so there's no need to carry much cash with you (just for small expenses). If possible, bring some Swiss francs in cash to get a better exchange rate.
There is no Wi-Fi in the huts along the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt, and during the tour, cell signal reception is not always available.
We always recommend that clients have two types of insurance. One should cover search and rescue expenses and specifically include extreme activities like mountaineering. Additionally, we advise taking out cancellation insurance in case last-minute issues prevent you from participating.
We are always looking for innovative ways to satisfy our clients and stay at the forefront of the industry. That's why, in addition, we haev partnered with WetterHeld, a forward-thinking German insurance provider. Their parametric insurance is designed to automatically refund you if it rains during your course, ensuring that you’re covered no matter what nature throws your way. With this partnership, we’re making sure that your experience is as seamless as possible, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Get a quote directly on their website by clicking here (please check the specific conditions on their website).
To ski the Haute Route Chamonix to Zermatt, you need to be a seasoned ski tourer who have prior experience with multi-day or hut-to-hut tours.
You will need a combination of technical and physical skills:
Technical Skills:
Physical Fitness:
If you don’t have this kind of experience, we recommend our ski mountaineering week in Val di Rhemes as preparation for the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. Many of our clients have followed this path, signing up for the preparation week in the first year (with little prior ski mountaineering experience) and then successfully completing the Haute Route with ease the following year.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the required skill and fitness levels.
Ski touring boots should be lightweight for efficient climbing while offering solid robustness for descents. Look for models with a comfortable fit, excellent flex, and reliable buckles to ensure performance.
Lightweight touring skis (88-95mm underfoot) offer the perfect balance of agility and flotation in various snow conditions. Modern lightweight bindings are essential for energy efficiency.
Ski poles for touring should be lightweight and durable, featuring adjustable or fixed lengths. Look for ergonomic grips and large baskets to enhance performance in soft snow.
Opt for models with a back clip attachment and and strong glue to prevent them from coming off during frequent changes. A mohair-nylon mix offers the best grip-to-slide balance.
A transceiver, shovel, and probe are essential for backcountry safety. The shovel should be metal (not plastic) for durability, and the probe must be at least 270 cm for effective snow burial rescue.
Lightweight crampons are essential for the Haute Route, offering secure traction on icy, steep terrain. Choose durable, 10-12 point models compatible with your boots for efficient climbing.
A 30-40 liter backpack is ideal for the Haute Route, providing enough space for essentials while remaining lightweight. Look for a pack with secure attachments for skis and an ice axe.
A lightweight harness designed for ski touring is essential for the Haute Route. It should be easy to put on over your boots, ensuring quick adjustments and comfort while maintaining safety on the climb.
A ski-touring helmet provides protection while remaining lightweight and well-ventilated. Choose a comfortable fit with easy adjustments to enhance your experience on the Haute Route.
A lightweight ice axe is necessary for the Haute Route, providing stability on steep, snowy terrain. Look for a model with a comfortable grip and a sturdy shaft to ensure reliable performance in various conditions.
Ski crampons are designed to attach to your specific bindings, providing essential traction on icy slopes. Choose lightweight models with aggressive teeth to enhance performance.
A screw-gate carabiner is a versatile and reliable tool for ski touring. It features a locking mechanism for added security, making it ideal for anchoring gear or connecting components.
A personal anchoring system is essential for safety when skiing on a glacier. It is valuable in rescue situations and during potential abseils, ensuring versatility and reliability.
Bring sunglasses with high protection (grade 3 or 4) to protect your eyes from intense sunlight and glare at high altitudes, ensuring clear vision and reducing eye strain.
Bring ski goggles to protect your eyes from blizzards, strong winds, and cold. They ensure clear vision and shield your face from harsh weather conditions.
Bring a headlamp with new batteries, with a minimum output of 300 lumens. It’s helpful in low-light situations when staying in the huts.
Pack a down jacket to ensure warmth in cold conditions. Its insulation traps body heat, making it ideal for high altitudes and freezing temperatures, while remaining lightweight and compressible.
Your hardshell jacket must include a hood for full protection from wind, rain, and snow. Waterproof and breathable, it serves as a critical outer layer, ensuring comfort and mobility in harsh conditions.
Bring full-finger thin gloves for dexterity and light protection during the Haute Route. They offer warmth in mild conditions while allowing precise hand movements.
Full-finger softshell gloves are essential for protection against wind and light moisture. They offer warmth, durability, and flexibility, ensuring ease of movement while handling gear in cold conditions.
A buff is versatile and provides essential protection against wind, cold, and sun. It can be worn around the neck, over the face, or as a head covering, offering warmth and comfort in changing conditions.
A warm hat is crucial for retaining heat during cold conditions. It provides insulation for your head and ears, ensuring comfort while climbing in low temperatures and protecting against wind chill.
A sun hat is essential for protecting your face and neck from harmful UV rays. It offers shade and breathability, keeping you cool and comfortable during long hours in sunny conditions.
Lightweight leggings are ideal for base layer during cold days. Merino wool is preferable for its moisture-wicking properties and comfort, providing warmth without adding bulk and helping regulate temperature.
Stretch softshell pants offer flexibility and comfort. They provide a balance of breathability and weather resistance, allowing for ease of movement while protecting against wind and light moisture.
Hardshell waterproof pants are vital for protection against rain and snow. Choose ones with full-length separating side zippers for easy access and ventilation, ensuring comfort and mobility.
A lightweight long-sleeve sun top is essential for UV protection. Opt for merino wool or synthetic materials instead of cotton for better moisture management and comfort.
Pack three pairs of ski touring socks, long ones, for added protection. They help prevent blisters and ensure your feet stay comfortable throughout your trip.
A midlayer top is essential for insulation and must fit comfortably over your baselayers. It provides warmth while allowing for breathability, making it ideal for varying temperatures during your tour.
A sleeping bag liner is essential for comfort, with silk being preferable due to its lightweight nature. It’s mandatory in all huts in the Alps, used alongside the blankets provided for a cozy sleep.
A hydration system with at least 1 liter capacity is essential, depending on your drinking habits. Camelbacks work well but may freeze in cold conditions, so plan accordingly to stay hydrated.
A personal care bag is essential for your trip. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, first-aid tape, Band-Aids and any personal medications or prescriptions for a safe and comfortable journey.
Sunscreen with SPF 50 is essential for high mountain conditions, providing superior protection against harmful UV rays. Apply generously to all exposed skin to prevent sunburn during the tour.
A high-protection lipscreen is essential for shielding your lips from UV rays and harsh weather in the mountains. It helps prevent chapping and sunburn, keeping your lips moisturized and safe.
Earplugs are a must-have for your trip, especially if you find yourself in a hut with a neighbor who thinks they're auditioning for a snoring competition. Enjoy some peace and quiet!
Keep your personal documents in a waterproof bag to protect them from moisture and damage. This ensures that essentials like your ID, permits, and insurance information stay safe.
