Between mid-mountain landscapes and spectacular views, the Grand Balcon Nord is one of the most iconic hikes in the Chamonix Valley.
Accessible from the Aiguille du Midi departure point, this balcony trail offers a unique immersion facing the glaciers and legendary peaks of the Mont Blanc massif.
The Grand Balcon Nord trail connects two major sites:
Plan de l’Aiguille (2,310 m)
Montenvers – Mer de Glace (1,913 m)
Throughout the hike, you follow a mountainside path with stunning views of:
Aiguilles de Chamonix
Drus, Grandes Jorasses, Aiguille de l’M and Mont-Blanc
the Chamonix Valley below
The almost level trail allows you to fully enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Why hike the Grand Balcon Nord?
✔️ Exceptional views of Mont Blanc and its glaciers
✔️ Easy access from the Aiguille du Midi
✔️ A unique high-altitude balcony trail
✔️ A memorable experience in a single day
Our tips for your hike:
Bring suitable walking shoes, water and a windproof jacket. Check the weather forecast and lift opening times before setting off, and consult mountain conditions via La Chamoniarde.
And don’t forget to download the app.
Purchase your ticket including:
🚠 1 ascent: Aiguille du Midi cable car (to Plan de l’Aiguille only) with reservation (cabin number and time slot)
🚡 1 return trip: Mer de Glace gondola
📷 Access to Montenvers site visits: Ice Cave + Glaciorium + Temple of Nature (subject to opening times and visitor flow)
🚂 1 descent: Montenvers – Mer de Glace train
⏱️ Practical information:
Travel times:
Ascent to Plan de l’Aiguille: 10 minutes
Descent by train from Montenvers: 20 minutes
Hiking time: 2h30* to 3h*
On-site visits: 2h30 to 3h (Glaciorium, Grotte de Glace, Temple de la Nature...)
📍 Distance: approx. 5 to 6 km
📈 Elevation gain: moderate (~400 m)
🎯 Level: intermediate hikers*
Accessible via lift systems, the Grand Balcon Nord is one of the few high-altitude hikes in Chamonix that is easy to reach.
⚠️*Walking times are indicative only. They do not include breaks and should be adapted to individual ability and terrain conditions. Always check conditions before setting out.
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