Lac Blanc
A stunning alpine lake in Chamonix offering iconic views of Mont Blanc, accessible via scenic hikes or a cable car.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Lac Blanc
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in Chamonix offering iconic views of Mont Blanc, accessible via scenic hikes or a cable car.
"Beautiful place, awesome hike, better to do it in the morning, less people around."
🎯 Cable Car Shortcut
Take the Flégère cable car to shorten the hike, but expect more people near the lake.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be rocky and challenging, especially on descent. Good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lac Blanc's Turquoise Waters
Chamonix, France
A stunning alpine lake reflecting the majestic Mont Blanc massif. A true postcard-perfect view.
Panoramic Mont Blanc Views
Along the hiking trails
Experience breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of Europe's highest peak throughout your hike.
Lacs des Chéserys
Below Lac Blanc
A series of beautiful lakes offering a slightly less crowded experience and potential camping spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Lac Blanc
Bivouacking & Camping Near Lac Blanc
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cable Car Shortcut
Take the Flégère cable car to shorten the hike, but expect more people near the lake. 
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be rocky and challenging, especially on descent. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike, especially during warmer months.
📸 Go Early for Photos
Capture the best shots with fewer people and softer morning light.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cable Car Shortcut
Take the Flégère cable car to shorten the hike, but expect more people near the lake.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be rocky and challenging, especially on descent. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike, especially during warmer months.
📸 Go Early for Photos
Capture the best shots with fewer people and softer morning light.
⛺ Bivouac with Caution
Wild camping is forbidden at Lac Blanc. Designated spots at Lacs des Chéserys require booking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lac Blanc for its breathtaking beauty, with the turquoise lake and panoramic Mont Blanc views being major highlights. Many find the hike rewarding, though some note it can be challenging and very crowded, especially near the lake. The option to use the cable car is appreciated for accessibility, but it contributes to the congestion.
"Beautiful enough in the rain, though I'm sure it would've been even nicer on a sunny day. A shame it was rainy, but glad things cleared up enough to capture a few relatively clearer shots. A good visit on our last day of the TMB!"
Jonathan Chew
"I took the cable car to the top and walked toward Lac Blanc. It took about two hours to hike up, and on the way down I went in the opposite direction, which was a more difficult route with many rocks. In total, it took five hours to complete the hike."
Bella Nelly
"Beautiful place, awesome hike, better to do it in the morning, less people around."
Ewa Bo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is Tré le Champ, about a 15-minute drive from Chamonix. You can also take the Flégère cable car for a shorter hike.
Parking is available at Tré le Champ, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Yes, local buses run from Chamonix to Tré le Champ, making it an accessible option for reaching the trailhead.
Many visitors opt for the hike from Tré le Champ, which offers a rewarding ascent. Alternatively, the Flégère cable car provides a quicker route.
The hike is generally considered moderate to challenging, with significant elevation gain. Easier options exist, and the cable car bypasses the toughest sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees for Lac Blanc itself. However, you will need to pay for the Flégère cable car if you choose to use it.
Lac Blanc is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round, though winter conditions can make it challenging or impossible to reach.
Yes, the Flégère cable car has a fee. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Chamonix Mont-Blanc website for current rates.
It's advisable to check if advance booking is available or recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid queues.
Wild camping is prohibited at Lac Blanc. Designated bivouac spots at Lacs des Chéserys require prior reservation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from Tré le Champ typically takes around 3-4 hours one way, depending on your pace and breaks. Using the cable car significantly reduces this time.
It's considered a moderate to challenging hike with significant elevation gain (around 1000m from Tré le Champ). The descent can also be tricky.
There are no extensive facilities directly at Lac Blanc. You may find basic amenities at the refuge if it's open, but it's best to be self-sufficient.
Wear layers, sturdy hiking boots, and bring rain gear as mountain weather can change rapidly. Sun protection is also crucial.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in protected alpine lakes like Lac Blanc to preserve the environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lake's beauty. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the blue of the water.
Absolutely! The entire hike offers stunning panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, so keep your camera ready throughout the journey.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected natural areas. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
The lake itself, the reflections of the mountains, and the surrounding rugged peaks are prime subjects. Don't miss the views from the trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The hike is described as accessible and perfect for introducing children to the beauty of high mountain scenery. While the full hike from Tré le Champ might be challenging for very young children, the views from the cable car and the area around the upper station are still impressive. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The chance to see mountain goats can also be a big hit with kids!
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Pack your own food and drinks, as options at the mountain refuge can be pricey. 🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Lac Blanc: Routes and Challenges
+1 Many hikers also opt to use the Flégère cable car, which significantly reduces the hiking time and elevation gain, making the destination more accessible. However, this also means the final approach to the lake can be more crowded. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the hike can be extended into a loop, often incorporating the Lacs des Chéserys. This offers varied terrain and different perspectives of the landscape.
Some reviews mention a more difficult descent route with many rocks, so caution is advised regardless of the direction taken. It's crucial to be prepared for mountain weather, which can change rapidly. Packing layers, waterproofs, and sun protection is essential. While the hike is rewarding, it's not to be underestimated, and assessing your fitness level before setting off is recommended.
Overnight Stays: Bivouacking and Camping
This rule is in place to preserve the fragile alpine environment.However, there are designated areas for bivouacking (a form of minimalist camping) at the nearby Lacs des Chéserys. These spots are limited and require advance reservation.
+1 Travelers planning to stay overnight must research and book these spots well in advance, especially during peak season. Those who have stayed overnight describe it as an incredible experience, with the stars and the quiet morning light adding to the magic. +1For those considering an overnight stay without a tent, a bivvy bag and warm layers might suffice for a night, but temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer.
The Mont Blanc Massif: A Photographer's Dream
Photographers will find the panoramic views along the hiking trails to be a constant source of inspiration.The best time for photography is generally early morning, when the light is soft, shadows are long, and the crowds are minimal. This allows for capturing the serene beauty of the landscape without too many distractions.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the vastness of the scenery, while a polarizing filter can enhance the saturation of the water and sky. Beyond the lake, keep an eye out for wildlife, such as the mountain goats often seen in the area, which can add an exciting element to your photos.
Remember to be respectful of the environment and any wildlife you encounter. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage, as it may be restricted in this protected natural park. 
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