Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area Guided Walker’s Haute Route (9, 11, or 12-day tour, you choose) Accommodation based on double occupancy Meals as specified in the itinerary Luggage delivery (except on days where you will stay in mountain huts) Transfers during the adventure Not included: Flights and airport transfers Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs Lunches, personal drinks and snacks Cable-car rides Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

These guided Walker’s Haute Route tours don’t require any technical skills, but they are generally recommended to those with a great level of fitness and an experience of multi-day hikes on mountain trails. You can expect 4,000-foot ascents on more challenging days and hiking between 10 and 15 miles for 7 hours on average for 7-10 consecutive days. The most difficult option is generally the Classic Haute Route since it features longer daily distance on average and involves 10 consecutive hiking days. Deluxe Haute Route features slightly shorter distance (on average) and includes a rest day. The least challenging option is the Haute Route Highlights trek, since it includes less hiking days. Keep in mind that hiking can be made difficult because of changing weather. However, you will always have a guide by your side who will encourage you, keep you safe, and will be able to quickly notice if hiking gets too strenuous for you or somebody in your group and make any adjustments. You will also be able to take many breaks, including those that allow you to take in the views. Due to some more exposed sections, the tour is not recommended for those with severe fear of heights.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items you will need during a day (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Waterproof pants Base layers (top and bottom) Mid layer—usually a fleece Hiking pants (shorts as well if you want) Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For these guided Walker’s Haute Route tours, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 10:1. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. Guided Walker’s Haute Route tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Chamonix, the starting point of your guided Walker’s Haute Route, most people fly into Geneva International Airport (GVA) , one hour away. Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs —they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount! You will meet your guide in your accommodation in Chamonix on day 1 at 6 pm—the exact location will be given to you once your trip has been confirmed. Your guided Walker’s Haute Route tour will finish in a different location—Zermatt. There are many bus and train lines connecting the town to Geneva, which is 3.5 hours away.

Safety measures and insurance

Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Chamonix | France

Walker’s Haute Route: From Chamonix to Zermatt

5.00

Europaweg hiking route along the Haute Route, views of Matterhorn.

Charles Kounen suspension bridge along the Europaweg hiking trail in the Swiss Alps.

Swiss Alpine town of Grimentz with typical wooden houses.

Alpine pass of Fenetre d’Arpette featuring glaciated mountains.

Edelweiss flower seen in the Swiss Alps along the Haute Route.

Scenicly located Swiss Alpine town of St Niklaus with a church bell.

Grand Balcon Sud, hiking trail near Mont Blanc.

Swiss town of Zermatt, last stop of the Haute Route, with wooden houses and the view of Matterhorn.

From $3,926 ()

Duration

9-12 days

Season

July through September

Accommodation

Mid-range or luxury hotels – different options available

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Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Reviews
Things to know

Cross the spectacular Haute Route, a trek that connects the two adventure capitals of the Alps: Chamonix and Zermatt. Starting in the shadow of Mont Blanc, you will complete the 110-mile trail with a dramatic finish at the foot of the Matterhorn—experiencing 10 of the 12 highest peaks in the Alps along the way. Brace yourself for long daily hikes; patchworks of dramatic landscapes leading you from glaciated mountains reflecting in crystalline lakes to verdant valleys and meadows beneath 9,500-foot mountain passes. And once you reach yet another picture-perfect village, your typical mountain hospitality exuding from its wooden chalets wrapped in flowers, learn why the Haute Route trek is one of the best hiking experiences in the Alps.

Adventure highlights

Hike past Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and 8 other highest Alpine peaks
Get immersed in sublime mountain vistas of Switzerland and France
Experience unique mountain lifestyle in typical Alpine villages and towns

Available itineraries

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Classic Haute Route

Meandering between Chamonix and Zermatt for 12 days, discover the heart of the Alps by getting up close to its highest peaks and experiencing its unique lifestyle in charming towns and villages. Your adventure offers superb hiking speckled with stupendous panoramic views, accommodation in quality hotels, auberges, and rustic mountain huts, as well as luggage delivery during all but two days—allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sublime Alpine scenery.

Your trip begins in the famous mountain town of Chamonix, found at the foot of Mont Blanc. You will meet your Haute Route hiking guide and fellow hikers at 6pm for a trip briefing, followed by dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Your adventure starts with a beautiful train journey on the famous Mont Blanc Express. Start trekking in the hamlet of Montroc, and begin with a climb up the stunning Aiguillette des Posettes. Straying from the standard route, your group will take a quiet and beautiful variant through the meadows of Les Tseppes and into Switzerland. You will stay for the night either in Trient or Col de la Forclaz—depending on accommodation availability.
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Ascent: 1,100 m / 3,610 ft
Descent: 1,100 m / 3,610 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Simple hotel
Start today’s hike with an easy stroll to the Chalet des Glaciers, a small café next to the impressive Trient glacier. Here, your group will begin a long and at times steep ascent through spectacular scenery up the high pass known as the Fenêtre d’Arpette, from which you can enjoy wonderful views of the Trient Plateau. What follows next is a steep descent through the Val d’Arpette to your accommodation in the resort town Champex, found by a gorgeous lake.
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Ascent: 1,411 m / 4,630 ft
Descent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Walking time: 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Leaving the picturesque village of Champex, hike through the meadows and farmland to reach the little village of Sembrancher. From here, it’s a short walk to Le Châble, a traditional village en-route to the famous resort of Verbier. From Le Châble, you will take the cable car to Les Ruinettes, above Verbier. Afterward, head to the well-known Cabane du Mont Fort, where you can relish the fantastic views of the Mont Blanc massif and the Grand Combin.
Distance: 20 km / 12.4 miles
Ascent: 1,350 m / 4,430 ft
Descent: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Walking time: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Day 5 is one of the most spectacular days of the trek as it involves crossing 3 cols with dramatic views throughout. After climbing the Col Termin, you will make another traverse and then climb to the Col de Louvie. From here, your group will make a steep descent at the edge of the Grand Désert glacier. Later, make your way up to the Col de Prafleuri (2,987 m / 9,800 ft), then descend to the Cabane de Prafleuri (2,642 m / 8,668 ft) for the evening.
Distance: 16.7 km / 10.4 miles
Ascent: 1,377 m / 4,517 ft
Descent: 1,170 m / 3,838 ft
Walking time: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Mountain hut
A short, steep climb greets you this morning as you summit the Col de Roux, overlooking the waters of the Lac de Dix. A gentle descent will then take your group to the shore of the lake, which you’ll follow to its end, in the shadow of Mont Blanc de Cheillon and the Pigne d’Arolla. Afterward, it’s a steep ascent to the base of the Col de Riedmatten, where your group will either have the option of climbing up to the col or taking a more direct route up the Pas de Chèvres ladders. Your guide will decide which route to take, based on the weather and the group’s desires. Later, it’s downhill to Arolla, where you’ll stay for the night.
Distance: 16 km / 10 km
Ascent: 735 m / 2,411 ft
Descent: 1,360 m / 4,462 ft
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
On day 7, you’ll approach the halfway point of the trek. Enjoy a leisurely walk through woodland to the Lac Bleu, one of the locals’ favorite spots to enjoy the natural wonders of the area. From here, there is an easy descent through a beautiful gorge to Les Haudères, where your group will stop for lunch. After a final short climb, today’s hike finishes at the small farming hamlet of La Sage.
Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
Ascent: 215 m / 705 ft
Descent: 550 m / 1,805 ft
Walking time: 4-5 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Your hiking on day 8 starts with a long, but not-too-difficult ascent to the Col de Torrent (2,912 m / 9,554 ft). Afterward, descend to the turquoise Lac de Moiry, enjoying the views of the imposing peaks of the Pennine Alps. Reaching Col de Sorebois is a more difficult climb due to being shorter and steeper than the previous ascent. From here, you can take in the spectacular views of the Weisshorn, the Dent Blanche and the Zinalrothorn. After a steep downhill, you will have reached the hotel at Zinal, a welcome sight after the hardest day of the trek so far.
Distance: 21 km / 13 miles
Ascent: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
Descent: 1,850 m / 6,070 ft
Walking time: 8-9 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Start today’s hike with a steep but pleasant ascent through larch forest, before a rising traverse takes you through alpine pastures to views across the Val d’Anniviers. Later, you’ll tackle the Forcletta pass (2,874 m / 9,430 ft). From there, you’ll be able to see into the Turtmanntal, entering the German-speaking part of Switzerland. During the descent, apart from the magnificent peaks, you’ll probably be able to spot the rare edelweiss, one of the symbols of Switzerland and of mountaineering. You’ll stay for the night in the tiny hamlet of Gruben.
Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
Ascent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Descent: 1,165 m / 3,822 ft
Walking time: 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Simple hotel
Start today’s trekking by walking through open woodland, then across high pastures, followed by rocky wilderness. The trek soon opens up to some of the most spectacular views in the Swiss Alps. The last pass you will cross during your Haute Route trek is the Augstbordpass (2,894 m / 9,495 ft), beyond which your group will descend steeply to the viewpoint known as the Twära, offering views into the Mattertal. Later, it’s another descent to the hamlet of Jungu. From here you can walk or take a cable-car ride to Saint Niklaus, your base for the night.
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Ascent: 1,070 m / 3,510 ft
Descent: 1,765 m / 5,790 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Today, your group will have a choice between two different routes. The first one involves taking a short taxi journey to Randa and heading up to a high-level route to finish the Haute Route in style. You’ll cross the newly opened Charles Kuonen suspension bridge—the longest one in the world—and continue to Zermatt along the iconic Europaweg route. If the weather is bad, or if there is danger of rockfall, your group will take the alternative route through the valley floor. Celebrate your achievements with your group and your guide in Zermatt—your adventure finishes tomorrow.
Distance: 13 or 18 km / 8 or 11 miles
Ascent: 450 m / 1,476 ft via the valley floor, or 1,400 m / 4,593 ft via the Europaweg
Descent: 0 m / 0 ft via the valley floor or 1,000 m / 3,280 ft via the Europaweg
Walking time: 8-9 hours or 4-5 hours via the valley floor
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Your Haute Route trekking tour finishes after breakfast. Say goodbye to your guide, fellow hikers, and the alpine wilderness. Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to stay on for some extra nights in this beautiful area close to the iconic Matterhorn.
Meals: Breakfast

Haute Route Highlights

Perfect for hikers who are short on time, this version of the Haute Route is a little shorter, but still hits all the highlights! This is achieved by taking short transfers, allowing you to focus on the best parts of the adventure. So, although your total walking will be shortened from 110 to 80 miles, you won’t be deprived of hiking past those iconic peaks and across the high-altitude mountain passes, nor the experiences of quaint towns and villages and rustic mountain huts.

Your trip begins in the famous mountain town of Chamonix, found at the foot of Mont Blanc. You will meet your guide and fellow hikers at 6pm for a trip briefing, followed by dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Your adventure starts with a beautiful train journey on the famous Mont Blanc Express. Start trekking in the hamlet of Montroc, and begin with a climb up the stunning Aiguillette des Posettes. Straying from the standard route, your group will take a quiet and beautiful variant through the meadows of Les Tseppes and into Switzerland. You will stay for the night either in Trient or Col de la Forclaz—depending on accommodation availability.
Distance: 13.5 km / 8.4 miles
Ascent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Descent: 1,100 m / 3,609 ft
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Start the day with a climb up the Bovine Trail, to the family-run Alpage de Bovine to enjoy refreshments and homemade cakes. Next, you’ll make a steep ascent with fantastic views of the Grand Combin, before entering the forest trail. After reaching the rustic café at Plan de l’Au, your group will have a short transfer to the remote village of Fionnay for a quick lunch stop. This marks the beginning of your journey into the mountains, with the next two days being the most rugged of the trip. You’ll now cross a challenging, yet spectacular trail to the Cabane de Louvie, your accommodation offering a breathtaking panorama across many of the 4,000-meter peaks in the Alps (+13,000 feet).
Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Ascent: 1,250 m / 4,100 ft
Descent: 550 m / 1,804 ft
Walking time: 7-9 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Begin today’s hike by following the shoreline of the Lac de Louvie. The trail will then lead your group up to a high path beneath the cliffs. There are a couple of places along this trail where you’ll have to be extra careful, and there is often a chain to hold on to. Afterward, tackle the Col de Louvie (2,921 m / 9,583 ft), before descending on to the edge of the Grand Désert glacier. The Col de Prafleuri (2,987 m / 9,800 ft) is your group’s next goal. After a short descent, arrive at the Cabane de Prafleuri (2,624 m / 8,609 ft), where you’ll spend another peaceful evening in the mountains.
Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Ascent: 820 m / 2,690 ft
Descent: 550 m / 1,804 ft
Walking time: 7-9 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Day 5 begins with a short climb with views of glaciers and Lac de Dix to reach the Col de Roux. Following the lake to its end, descend gently enjoying views of the Pigne d’Arolla and Mont Blanc de Cheilon. Next, you’ll cross the moraine of the Dix glacier, followed by a steep ascent to either the Col de Riedmatten or the ladders of ‘Pas de Chèvres’. The rest of the day is all downhill to the village of Arolla, nestled in its very own forest of Arolla pines. Here your group will take a well-earned break before taking a transfer to the delightful hotel in the small farming hamlet of La Sage.
Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
Ascent: 1,100 m / 3,609 ft
Descent: 1,360 m / 4,462 ft
Walking time: 8-9 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Your hiking on day 6 starts with a long, but not-too-difficult ascent to the Col de Torrent (2,912 m / 9,554 ft). Afterward, descend to the turquoise Lac de Moiry, enjoying the views of the imposing peaks of the Pennine Alps. Reaching Col de Sorebois is a more difficult climb due to being shorter and steeper than the previous ascent. From here, you can take in the spectacular views of the Weisshorn, the Dent Blanche and the Zinalrothorn. After a steep downhill, you will have reached the hotel at Zinal, a welcome sight after the hardest day of the trek so far.
Distance: 24.5 km / 15 miles
Ascent: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
Descent: 1,850 m / 6,070 ft
Walking time: 8-9 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 7 begins with a gentle ascent and crossing an alpine meadow, followed by traversing the mountainside on a fantastic balcony trail. Later, you’ll tackle the Forcletta pass (2,874 m / 9,430 ft). From there, you’ll be able to see into the Turtmanntal, entering the German-speaking part of Switzerland. During the descent, apart from the magnificent peaks, you’ll probably be able to spot the rare edelweiss, one of the symbols of Switzerland and of mountaineering. You’ll stay for the night in the tiny hamlet of Gruben.
Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
Ascent: 1,315 m / 4,315 ft
Descent: 1,165 m / 3,822 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Set out through open woodland and into high pastures. Your final col on this trip is the Augstbordpass (2,894 m / 9,495 ft). Beyond the pass, you’ll descend into a bowl and follow a rocky trail that clings to the mountainside. Stop at the Twära viewpoint to admire a magnificent view into the Mattertal. Afterward, it’s a descent to the pretty hamlet of Jungu, followed by a final steep section to the town of St. Niklaus. There, you’ll have an option to take a cable-car ride down to St. Niklaus. From St. Niklaus, your group will take a short train or taxi ride to the iconic town of Zermatt, sprawling beneath the iconic peak of Matterhorn.
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Ascent: 1,070 m / 3,510 ft
Descent: 1,765 m / 5790 ft
Walking time: 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Your Haute Route Highlights hiking tour finishes after breakfast. Say goodbye to your guide, fellow hikers, and the Alpine wilderness Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to stay on for some extra nights in this beautiful area close to the iconic Matterhorn.
Meals: Breakfast

Deluxe Haute Route

You want to lace your Haute Route hiking adventure with some irresistible Alpine luxury? We’ve got you covered. Apart from hiking along one of the world’s most beautiful and spectacular treks, you will also be spoiled by luxurious hotels boasting incredible food, as well as spas, saunas, pools, and wellness suites wherever possible. You will also have an extra day in the Swiss resort town of Saint-Luc and luggage delivery during all days.

Your trip begins in the famous mountain town of Chamonix, found at the foot of Mont Blanc. You will meet your guide and fellow hikers at 6pm for a trip briefing, followed by dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Luxurious 4* hotel
Your Haute Route adventure begins with taking the Planpraz cable car, followed by a hike along the famous Grand Balcon Sud, famous for its fabulous Mont Blanc views. As your path is located in the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, you’re likely to see ibex, chamois, and marmottes. Lanter, traverse to the stunning Lac des Chéserys, descend to the Col des Montets and follow the valley to Vallorcine and your comfortable accommodation.
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Ascent: 1,411 m / 4,629 ft
Descent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Walking time: 6.5 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: High-quality hotel
Start your day with a short transfer from Vallorcine to the start of today’s hike at the Col de la Forclaz: an easy stroll to the Chalet des Glaciers, a small café next to the impressive Trient glacier. Here, your group will begin a long and at times steep ascent through spectacular scenery up the high pass known as the Fenêtre d’Arpette, from which you can enjoy wonderful views of the Trient Plateau. What follows next is a steep descent through the Val d’Arpette to your luxurious accommodation in the resort town Champex, found by a gorgeous lake.
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Ascent: 1,411 m / 4,629 ft
Descent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Walking time: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Luxurious hotel
This morning we’ll leave the picturesque village of Champex behind. We’ll cross summer meadows and farmland to reach the little village of Sembrancher. From here we take a private transfer to Evolène in the picturesque Val d’Herens. We then spend the afternoon making our way from Evolène to La Sage where our very comfortable hotel awaits for the evening.
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Ascent: 305 m / 1,000 ft
Descent: 305 m / 1,000 ft
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: High-quality hotel
Day 5 begins with a long, but not-to-difficult ascent to the Col de Torrent (2,912 m / 9,554 ft). Your group will then descend to the turquoise Lac de Moiry. From here, you can admire some of the giant peaks of the Pennine Alps, including the Dent Blanche and the Weisshorn. From the Lac de Moiry, it’s a 1.5-hour walk to the historic village of Grimentz, where you’ll stay for the night.
Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Ascent: 1,270 m / 4,166 ft
Descent: 693 m / 2,273 ft
Walking time: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: High-quality hotel
This morning, you’ll head out of Grimentz following the forested trail into the Val d’Anniviers. From here, pick up the path which will lead your group up through flower-strewn alpine pastures to the historic Hotel Weisshorn (2,337 m / 7,667 ft), a great place to stop for lunch. After lunch, you’ll descend to the village of St Luc, perched high above the valley. This will be your base for the next two nights.
Distance: 13.5 km / 8 miles
Ascent: 1,150 m / 3,772 ft
Descent: 1,065 m / 3,495 ft
Walking time: 5.5 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Luxurious hotel
A wonderful luxurious hotel is chosen for your two-night stay in St Luc, the perfect juncture for a well-deserved rest day. Enjoy a restful and relaxing day in St Luc, taking advantage of the hotel’s excellent spa facilities. There are various shorter walks that are also possible today.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Luxurious hotel
Today you’ll pass from the French-speaking part of Switzerland to the German-speaking Val Turtmanntal. From St Luc, your group will retrace their steps out of the village and up into the open pastures to make a steady ascent to the Meidpass (2,790 m / 9,154 ft). Here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the Alps. While approaching the pass, you may even spot some edelweiss, the symbol of Switzerland and mountaineering. Descend from the pass into the peaceful Turtmanntal valley and reach the tiny hamlet of Gruben, your home for the night.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: High-quality hotel
Distance: 11.8 km / 7.3 miles
Ascent: 667 m / 2188 ft
Descent: 1026 m / 3366 ft
Approx hiking time: 6 hrs
Start today’s trekking by walking through open woodland, then across high pastures, followed by rocky wilderness. The trek soon opens up to some of the most spectacular views in the Swiss Alps. The last pass you will cross during your Haute Route trek is the Augstbordpass (2,894 m / 9,495 ft), beyond which your group will descend steeply to the viewpoint known as the Twära, offering views into the Mattertal. Later, it’s another descent to the hamlet of Jungu. From here you can walk or take a cable-car ride to Saint Niklaus, your base for the night,
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Ascent: 1,070 m / 3,510 ft
Descent: 1,765 m / 5,790 ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: High-quality hotel
Today, your group will have a choice between two different routes. The first one involves taking a short taxi journey to Randa and heading up to a high-level route to finish the Haute Route in style. You’ll cross the newly opened Charles Kuonen suspension bridge—the longest one in the world and continue to Zermatt along the iconic Europaweg route. If the weather is bad, or if there is danger of rockfall, your group will take the alternative route through the valley floor. Celebrate your achievements with your group and your guide in Zermatt—your adventure finishes tomorrow.
Distance: 13 or 18 km / 8 or 11 miles
Ascent: 450 m / 1,476 ft via the valley floor, or 1,400 m / 4,593 ft via the Europaweg
Descent: 0 m / 0 ft via the valley floor or 1,000 m / 3,280 ft via the Europaweg
Walking time: 8-9 hours or 4-5 hours via the valley floor
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Luxurious hotel
Your Deluxe Haute Route guided tour finishes after breakfast. Say goodbye to your guide, fellow hikers, and the Alpine wilderness Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to stay on for some extra nights in this beautiful area close to the iconic Matterhorn.
Meals: Breakfast

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Walker’s Haute Route: From Chamonix to Zermatt

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Meet your guides

5.00

Ronan Bégoc

International Mountain Leader

Originally from Brittany (Bretagne), Ronan moved to the mountains 30 years ago to pursue his passion for hiking, climbing, ski touring, running, and painting. A qualified International Mountain Leader for 25 years, he has spent the last 10 years living in the Czech mountains. With a wealth of experience and a great sense of humor, Ronan loves sharing his adventures and knowledge with every group he guides.

5.00

Tom Greenall

Tom is a qualified International Mountain Leader, Wilderness First Responder and Ski Guide. Based in Les Houches, Tom guides snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area, but also further afield, such as in Japan. When not guiding, Tom can be found climbing up, skiing or biking down alpine peaks. He also makes eco-friendly wooden skies—Tom is the founder of the award-winning eco-ski company, Idris Skis.

5.00

Ian Spare

International Mountain Leader

Ian is an International Mountain Leader and First Aid Trainer. He’s lived in Switzerland since 2003, where he also runs a B&B with his wife. Ian’s favorite trekking places are Corsica and the Dolomites, where he enjoys the food, the wine, and the beaches. Ian is the director of the British Association of International Mountain Leaders and the current president of their international association, the UIMLA.

5.00

Gary Daines

International Mountain Leader

Gary is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Argelès, in the Pyrenees, and leads snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area and beyond. He’s also an accredited Duke of Edinburgh Award assessor, often training and evaluating Jura snowshoe groups. Known for his great sense of humor and thoughtful, philosophical outlook, Gary is a natural with both adult and youth groups—an inspiring guide and a patient teacher. With years of experience leading trips around the world, anyone would be lucky to have Gary is their guide!

5.00

Charlie Boscoe

Charlie has led trips across Europe, as well as to Kilimanjaro, India, Morocco, Bolivia, and Nepal in recent years. A qualified Mountain Leader and certified Wilderness First Responder, Charlie is also known for his popular Chamonix Blog and his work as a commentator for international climbing competitions. With a sharp sense of humor and serious climbing skills, he’s most often found guiding high-altitude mountaineering adventures rather than the more relaxed treks.

5.00

Becki Penrose

Becki is a highly experienced International Mountain Leader with a passion for guiding people through some of the world’s most inspiring landscapes. She’s led walking, climbing, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures, and even caving trips! Her international guiding experience spans mountain expeditions and treks in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Morocco, Bolivia, and China, as well as trail running and trekking in the European Alps. Becki brings energy, deep knowledge, and a love of the outdoors to every trip she leads.

5.00

Boi Sagarra Pascual

Originally from Barcelona, Boi is a qualified International Mountain Leader and ski instructor. He’s currently working toward becoming a UIAGM mountain guide. After earning a degree in Biology, Boi set off to New Zealand to hike and climb, but a chance visit to Chamonix changed everything—he fell in love with the mountains and never looked back. Today, he splits his year between summers in the Alps and winters in the Catalan Pyrenees.

5.00

Cam Bevan

International Mountain Leader

Cam is a qualified International Mountain Leader who’s been guiding hikers through the mountains of Europe for the past seven years. His favorite regions include the Italian Dolomites, the Spanish Picos de Europa, and the Mont Blanc Massif—each offering incredible scenery, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Cam spends his summers based in Chamonix and winters in the Scottish Highlands. Outside of guiding, he’s passionate about climbing, mountaineering, and ski touring.

5.00

Emily Andrew

International Mountain Leader

Emily is a qualified International Mountain Leader with years of guiding experience. Based in Chamonix, she knows the Tour du Mont Blanc inside out but also thrives on more far-flung adventures, having recently led trips to Alaska, Norway, Kilimanjaro, and Nepal. Alongside guiding, she works full-time as an English and Geography teacher—though how she manages to stay so fit remains a mystery! In her spare time, she’s out trail running, road biking, or ski touring, and recently took on both the CCC and the Étape du Tour.

5.00

Fran Pothecary

International Mountain Leader

Fran is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over 10 years of guiding experience across the Alps and her home terrain in Scotland. She has a particular love for the Tour de Monte Rosa and the Walker’s Haute Route. Her adventures have taken her as far as Antarctica, where she’s worked at a British polar research station—and in summer, she’s often spotted kayaking among penguins. Fran also guides in Iceland, works as a photographer, and conducts biological surveys in the Cairngorms. A climber, skier, paddler, and mountain biker with an MSc in Sustainable Mountain Development, Fran simply loves being in the mountains and sharing that joy with others.

5.00

Jack Doyle

International Mountain Leader

Jack is a qualified International Mountain Leader whose love for the Alps began during his university years. Before his Computer Science degree had even settled, he was off to Chamonix to develop his mountaineering and skiing skills. Seven years on, Jack has hiked, run, skied, and climbed his way across the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps, with time also spent exploring the Scottish Highlands. He even knows his way around a cheese board, thanks to two years in a Savoyard kitchen. Now splitting his time between Chamonix and Athens, Jack is just as happy guiding you to the perfect trail as he is to the best pizza.

5.00

Jen Stretton

International Mountain Leader

Jen is a qualified International Mountain Leader and yoga teacher based in Chamonix. Her love for the Alps began during a university climbing trip, and after earning a Geography degree, she spent several years travelling, volunteering with conservation projects, and freelancing in marketing to fund her adventures. Since settling in Chamonix in 2015, Jen has combined her passion for guiding with a strong commitment to the environment. An enthusiastic climber, skier, and trail runner (often trying to keep pace with her dog), Jen brings infectious energy and deep mountain knowledge to every trip.

5.00

Joel Evans

International Mountain Leader

Joel is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Chamonix. Just weeks after completing his Finance degree in 2011, he swapped the Welsh hills for the towering peaks of the Alps—and never looked back. Since then, he’s been exploring every corner of the Mont Blanc Massif. In winter, you’ll find him ski touring or chasing steep descents; in summer, he’s often out trail running or mountaineering.

5.00

Lolo Frison

International Mountain Leader

Lolo grew up in the “pretty but flat” heart of central France, but everything changed after a childhood winter trip to the Alps sparked a lifelong love for the mountains. After school, she explored Asia, North Africa, Australia, and spent a year working in Canada—capped off with a U.S. national parks road trip. Back in France, she became an International Mountain Leader and now shares her deep knowledge of mountain flora, fauna, and French culture on every trip. Whether guiding school groups or adult trekkers, Lolo brings enthusiasm and warmth. Off-duty, she enjoys skiing, diving, yoga, Himalayan trekking, and even beekeeping.

5.00

Marit Van Kampen

International Mountain Leader

Marit is originally from the Netherlands, where her passion for the outdoors began with ski trips to Austria. That love deepened during her university years in North Wales, where she took up hiking and rock climbing. Her adventures have since taken her across the Alps and beyond. Now based in the French Alps and teaching at an international school in Geneva, Marit is a qualified International Mountain Leader who joins the Cloud 9 team during school holidays. With a keen interest in alpine history, geology, and flora, she shares her knowledge with enthusiasm—and in four languages, no less!

5.00

Nicole Claudon

International Mountain Leader

Nicole, originally from France’s Vosges region, moved to Chamonix in 1984 with her husband, a mountain guide with the PGHM rescue service. Now based in Sallanches with their three sons, she’s been working as a qualified International Mountain Leader since 1996. In summer, Nicole leads both classic routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc and hidden gems like the Gran Paradiso and Tour des Fiz. In winter, she guides snowshoeing trips around Megève. A passionate hiker, skier, and cyclist, Nicole also travels widely—favourites include Nepal, Corsica, and Réunion Island—and spends every autumn harvesting grapes with friends for winemaking.

5.00

Pablo Herráez

Pablo, originally from Spain, is both a qualified International Mountain Leader and High Mountain Guide with a loyal following of returning clients. He moved to the Alps to fully embrace his passion for the mountains and has since built a reputation as an exceptional guide and leader. Fluent in Spanish and comfortable in both English and French, Pablo brings experience, enthusiasm, and a warm, multilingual approach to every trip.

5.00

Richard Betts

International Mountain Leader

Richard is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over nine years of guiding and instructing experience. After leaving the Fire Service, he turned his full attention to the outdoors, exploring the mountains of France, Italy, the UK, Austria, and the Canadian Rockies. Rich has a passion for weather, the natural environment, and outdoor photography—interests that have even taken him storm-chasing in the USA. When he's not in the mountains, Rich serves as a Search Technician for Lowland Rescue and an Emergency First Responder. In his downtime, you'll find him climbing or out on the trails running.

5.00

Robin Willmott

International Mountain Leader

Robin is a qualified International Mountain Leader with expedition experience across Africa, America, Asia, and Europe. A natural explorer, he's driven by curiosity and a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes he encounters. When he's not in the mountains or deep in the jungle, Robin lives life at a different pace—navigating the UK's inland waterways aboard his bright yellow narrowboat, Goldilocks.

5.00

Susanna Walker

International Mountain Leader

Suze has lived and worked in the Alps for over 10 years and is a passionate mountaineer, trail runner, road cyclist, skier, and yogi. Based in Chamonix since 2011, she is a fully qualified International Mountain Leader. Suze’s love for skiing has taken her around the world, and in 2014, she organized a ski mountaineering expedition to climb peaks in Tajikistan. A dedicated bird watcher and nature lover, Suze enjoys everything from wandering through magical forests to tackling steep alpine ski descents. With her vast experience, she’s as comfortable in the mountains as she is immersed in nature.

5.00

Emma Jack

Emma has been leading treks and expeditions ever since 2005. She's led trips all over the world, but Corsica, Nepal, and the Alps remain her top three trekking destinations and Tour du Mont Blanc trek her favorite route. In 2009, she made the first ever ski descent of Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world. Emma is fluent in French, Russian, and Spanish.

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Everything You Need to Know About Hiking the Haute Route

Emma Jack

International Mountain Leader & Co-founder of Cloud 9 Adventure

5.00(4 reviews)

Kitty F.

|September 2024

This was such an awesome trek. Tough at times but I expected that and enjoyed it.

Lori v.

|September 2024

sonia s.

|July 2024

Well planned. Rigorous and demanding while so rewarding..

Show all reviews

Kitty F.

|September 2024

This was such an awesome trek. Tough at times but I expected that and enjoyed it.

Lori v.

|September 2024

sonia s.

|July 2024

Well planned. Rigorous and demanding while so rewarding..

paul k

Haute Trip

This trip has been in the works for almost 3 years and through the Covid epidemic you somehow managed to pull it off. The additions and changes you had to make were remarkable in fitting our needs. How can an 11 day trip go off without 1 hiccup? It did because of your knowledge, professionalism and extreme dedication to your clients. As one of your guides(Suze) said: Emma never sleeps! Every single detail from luggage delivery, hotel accommodations, trip notes, maps, food requests(we had 2 vegetarians) was spot on. From the bottom of my heart, you made a 25 year dream to hike the Haute come true. It was way beyond my expectations. To do it with friends was even more special. On any future expeditions, I would never consider another person(or company) to arrange my trip. No wonder Richard Branson so highly recommends you. To all who read this review, I personally have arranged dozens of trips over the years, but I knew from the start that Emma was the one to arrange this one.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - Guided Walker’s Haute Route (9, 11, or 12-day tour, you choose)
  - Accommodation based on double occupancy
  - Meals as specified in the itinerary
  - Luggage delivery (except on days where you will stay in mountain huts)
  - Transfers during the adventure
Not included:
- - Flights and airport transfers
  - Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs
  - Lunches, personal drinks and snacks
  - Cable-car rides
  - Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory
  - Guide gratuities — optional
These guided Walker’s Haute Route tours don’t require any technical skills, but they are generally recommended to those with a great level of fitness and an experience of multi-day hikes on mountain trails. You can expect 4,000-foot ascents on more challenging days and hiking between 10 and 15 miles for 7 hours on average for 7-10 consecutive days. The most difficult option is generally the Classic Haute Route since it features longer daily distance on average and involves 10 consecutive hiking days. Deluxe Haute Route features slightly shorter distance (on average) and includes a rest day. The least challenging option is the Haute Route Highlights trek, since it includes less hiking days.

Keep in mind that hiking can be made difficult because of changing weather. However, you will always have a guide by your side who will encourage you, keep you safe, and will be able to quickly notice if hiking gets too strenuous for you or somebody in your group and make any adjustments. You will also be able to take many breaks, including those that allow you to take in the views.

Due to some more exposed sections, the tour is not recommended for those with severe fear of heights.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items you will need during a day (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Waterproof pants
  - Base layers (top and bottom)
  - Mid layer—usually a fleece
  - Hiking pants (shorts as well if you want)
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For these guided Walker’s Haute Route tours, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 10:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
Guided Walker’s Haute Route tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
To get to Chamonix, the starting point of your guided Walker’s Haute Route, most people fly into Geneva International Airport (GVA), one hour away. Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount!

You will meet your guide in your accommodation in Chamonix on day 1 at 6 pm—the exact location will be given to you once your trip has been confirmed.

Your guided Walker’s Haute Route tour will finish in a different location—Zermatt. There are many bus and train lines connecting the town to Geneva, which is 3.5 hours away.
Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.