Staying in traditional mountain huts or refuges are a highlight for many when walking in the Mont Blanc region
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Hiking the Ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc
When discussing the
Tour du Mont Blanc, a common topic we receive questions about is navigating the ladders on the trail. Travellers want to know how much of a challenge the ladders are, if it's possible to avoid ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc by taking an alternative route, and ultimately whether they have the ability to manage the ladders.
In this article, we will answer these questions so you can be aware of what to expect and can hike the Tour du Mont Blanc with confidence.
"Are there ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc trail?"
On the Tour du Mont Blanc, the route taken between Lac Blanc and Tre le Champ may include short parts on a series of 9 ladders. The purpose of the ladders is to ascend a sloping rock section. These ladders are considered safe but do require care.
The eventual views are well worth the effort! You should have your cameras at the ready as you are afforded a fabulous view out over the Mont Blanc chain: you will be able to take some impressive pictures of “La Verte”, the Drus and the Needles of Chamonix.
"Will my guide choose to hike the route with ladders?"
The only UTracks Tour du Mont Blanc guided trip that encounters ladders is on the
Mont Blanc Encompassed hike, which is a 10-day guided hiking tour.
On this trip on day 9, the group will walk between Lac Blanc and Tre le Champ. The guide will use their discretion to determine which route will be taken, i.e. whether the ladders will be used or not. This decision will be based on the group's collective ability and the weather conditions. One of the benefits of having a professional guide while walking the Tour du Mont Blanc is that they can make expert decisions such as this.
"Is there a way to avoid the ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc?"
Yes, there is a longer route along the Col des Montets trail which does not involve ladders.
"How challenging is it to climb the ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc trail?"
The Tour du Mont Blanc is graded as a trip that is 'moderate to challenging' and people need to able to walk around 5-9 hours per day, between 8 and 15km and maximum ascents/descents of 1700 metres per day. In general, if you have the fitness to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc then navigating the ladders is achievable. It is mainly an issue if you suffer from vertigo or a fear of heights.
If you have any more questions about managing the ladders on the Tour du Mont Blanc please
contact us for more information.
Have you experienced the ladders of the Tour du Mont Blanc? If so let us know about your experience in the comment section below.