Walking EuropeLes Praz from Chamonix
Walk 6022
Country - France
Region - Haute Savoie (74) - Chamonix Valley
Author - Lou Johnson
Length - 3.0 km / 1.9 miles
Ascent - 50 metres / 165 feet
Grade - easy
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This short walk from Chamonix to Les Praz is a perfect evening stroll or useful when low cloud frustrates visits to higher places in the mountains. The walk is also interesting when the river is in spate with snow melt or after heavy thunderstorms or even better a combination of the two.
From the centre of Chamonix walk to the bridge over the Arve on Avenue Mont Blanc. Cross to the south side and join the foot path that goes upstream with the River Arve on your left. Pass the Gymnasium on your right and continue alongside the river. Continue along the Promenade du Fori to reach the point where the Arve and Arveyron rivers meet. Cross the River Arveyron by the bridge and continue along the Promenade des Econtres towards les Praz. Reaching the route des Praz (the first major road since leaving Chamonix), turn left and cross the River Arve. Once across the river turn right and follow the River Arve upstream with the river now on your right.
At the next bridge re-cross the River Arve down the Chemin de l'Ecole. This leads to the past the valley station of the Chalet de la Flégère cablecar to the centre of Les Praz. In the centre of this village is a very pleasant square with a chapel. You can either retrace your steps back to Chamonix or use the regular bus service for the return journey.
Suggested Maps
- Carte de Randonnées "Sheet A1 - Pays due Mont-Blanc" published by Rando Editions. 1:50000 scale - Sheet A1
- Map of Mountain Footpaths in Summer - 1:40000 - Published by the Office de Tourisme
- IGN Carte de Randonnée - Chamonix - Massif de Mont Blanc - 1:25000 Sheet 3630OT
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.