Col de Tricot
A challenging mountain pass on the Tour du Mont Blanc, known for its steep ascents and descents, offering rewarding alpine views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ideal for clear views & cooler temps
Col de Tricot
Best Time
Ideal for clear views & cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging mountain pass on the Tour du Mont Blanc, known for its steep ascents and descents, offering rewarding alpine views.
"Very tough climb from the south. The view from the top is not the most spectacular. A cood challenge."
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for the demanding climb up Col de Tricot. Don't underestimate hydration needs.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Crucial for the steep ascents and descents. Good grip is key for safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Col de Tricot Summit
The highest point of the pass
Reach the summit for a sense of accomplishment and panoramic views. A rewarding challenge for hikers.
Bionassay Suspension Bridge
Ascent to Col de Tricot
A thrilling suspension bridge crossing that adds an adventurous element to the trek.
Challenging Ascent & Descent
The entire Col de Tricot route
Experience a demanding climb and a steep, potentially scary descent. A true test of endurance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Tricot Climb
Best Footwear and Hydration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for the demanding climb up Col de Tricot. Don't underestimate hydration needs.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Crucial for the steep ascents and descents. Good grip is key for safety.
⚠️ Be Aware of Weather
Autumnal landslides are a risk in heavy rain. Check forecasts before you go.
📸 Capture the Views
While not the most spectacular, the views are still rewarding.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for the demanding climb up Col de Tricot. Don't underestimate hydration needs.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Crucial for the steep ascents and descents. Good grip is key for safety.
⚠️ Be Aware of Weather
Autumnal landslides are a risk in heavy rain. Check forecasts before you go.
📸 Capture the Views
While not the most spectacular, the views are still rewarding.
🗺️ Alternative Route
Consider the Les Houches to Les Contamines route via Col du Tricot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Col de Tricot is a beautiful but very tough climb, especially from the south. While the views from the top aren't the most spectacular, the challenging ascent and steep descent offer a good test of endurance. Be prepared with plenty of water and sturdy footwear.
"Beautiful. Water is essential on the walk up Col de Tricot. Possible risk of autumnal land slides in heavy rains."
Claire Williams
"Very tough climb from the south. The view from the top is not the most spectacular. A cood challenge."
Paul B
"Nice pass.
steep decent towards miage ."
Guy Portal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col de Tricot is typically accessed as part of the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek. Common starting points include Les Houches, from where you can ascend to the pass.
The distance from Les Houches to Col de Tricot varies depending on the exact route, but it's a significant part of the TMB's first stage, often around 16-17km.
You can reach Les Houches via public transport from Chamonix. From Les Houches, the hike to Col de Tricot begins.
The most common trailhead for Col de Tricot is in Les Houches, as part of the Tour du Mont Blanc.
While challenging, it's possible to hike to Col de Tricot and back from Les Houches, but it's a strenuous day. Many hikers incorporate it into multi-day treks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Col de Tricot is a natural mountain pass and part of public hiking trails. No tickets are required for access.
There are no entrance fees to hike through Col de Tricot. It's a natural mountain pass accessible to hikers.
Col de Tricot is an outdoor mountain pass and is accessible year-round, though conditions can be hazardous in winter.
The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September) for optimal weather and trail conditions. Late spring can also be good, though snow patches may exist.
Yes, Col de Tricot is a popular section of guided Tour du Mont Blanc treks. Many companies offer guided tours that include this pass.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Col de Tricot is considered a challenging hike due to its steep ascents and descents. It requires good physical fitness.
While the summit views are not considered the most spectacular, they are still rewarding and offer a sense of accomplishment after the tough climb.
Col de Tricot is a mountain pass and does not have facilities like restrooms or shops. You'll need to be self-sufficient.
The Bionassay suspension bridge is typically installed for the season and is a notable feature on the ascent to Col de Tricot.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, and rain gear. Good grip on footwear is essential for the steep terrain.
🍽️ 💧 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Col de Tricot. You'll find options in Les Houches or Les Contamines, or at mountain refuges along the TMB route.
Yes, it's highly recommended to pack plenty of snacks and a packed lunch as there are no services on the pass itself.
Water sources can be scarce. It's best to start with full bottles and consider a water filter or purification tablets if you plan to use natural sources.
Yes, mountain refuges like Refuge Tré la Tête are located along the Tour du Mont Blanc route, often near Col de Tricot, offering meals and accommodation.
Refuges typically offer hearty, traditional mountain cuisine, often including soups, stews, pasta, and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the challenging terrain, the Bionassay suspension bridge, and the expansive mountain vistas from the summit.
Yes, the dramatic landscapes and the adventurous nature of the hike make it a great place for photography.
Morning light often provides softer shadows and clearer views. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be beautiful.
The summit of Col de Tricot itself offers the primary viewpoint. The surrounding trails also provide scenic opportunities.
Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are an experienced family of hikers with older, very fit teenagers, it might be considered as part of a longer TMB trek. However, prioritize safety and assess your children's capabilities carefully. Shorter, less strenuous hikes in the Chamonix valley might be a more suitable alternative for most families.
💰 Budget Travelers
For budget travelers, hiking the TMB and camping or staying in more basic refuges can help manage costs. Packing your own food and water is also a significant money-saver compared to purchasing at refuges or in towns.
💑 Couples
Consider incorporating this section into a romantic multi-day trek like the Tour du Mont Blanc. The sense of accomplishment after conquering the pass together can be incredibly rewarding. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot along the way.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tour du Mont Blanc Connection
+3Many TMB itineraries include Col de Tricot as a challenging but rewarding section. The route involves crossing the Bionassay suspension bridge, adding an element of adventure. The ascent is steep, and the descent can be equally demanding, requiring careful footing.
For those not undertaking the full TMB, Col de Tricot can be incorporated into day hikes from Les Houches, though it's a strenuous undertaking. The pass offers a true mountain experience, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Alps.
Navigating the Terrain: Ascent and Descent
The descent from Col de Tricot is also a notable feature, often described as scary or steep by hikers. This section requires careful navigation, especially in wet conditions or if there are any autumnal landslides. Proper hiking boots with good grip are absolutely essential for a safe descent.
Water is crucial for this trek. The climb can be hot and exposed, and there are limited opportunities to refill water bottles. Carrying ample water is a non-negotiable tip for anyone planning to hike Col de Tricot.
TDS Race Section
Incidents during races, such as athletes needing to abandon due to the challenging conditions at Col de Tricot, highlight the difficulty of this section. The pass tests the physical and mental resilience of even the most experienced ultra-runners.
The inclusion of Col de Tricot in such demanding races underscores its status as a significant and challenging mountain pass within the Mont Blanc region. It's a testament to the rugged beauty and demanding nature of the trails.
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