Running Collection by Steph Lightfoot
Running with passion – Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt
7 routes
38:17
198km
13,340m
Whether in winter with touring skis or in summer on foot, there are many different variations of this unforgettable route. This Collection shows you the best trails as well as the most technical passes and peaks for mountain running that don’t require any special equipment.
You stay the night in valley villages or mountain huts. In the valleys, you have a wide choice of accommodation, from campsites to five-star hotels. In mountain huts, on the other hand, you sleep in simple dormitories alongside other athletes who share your passion for the high mountains.
The stages are between 17 and 35 kilometres (10.5 and 21.7 mi) long. For those who run ultramarathons, this may seem short. However, the technical challenges of this route and the altitude should not be underestimated. Several sections are over 3,000 metres (9,842 ft) above sea level. If you want to make it a little easier or shorten the route, you can use mountain railroads or buses to save you a few metres of climbing or travel from one valley to the next.
Your adventure starts in Chamonix, which you can reach by car, train, bus or even by plane. Geneva airport is only an hour's drive away. On the way back from Zermatt to Chamonix, I recommend catching the train, which takes about four hours. If you are travelling in a larger group, it might also be worth organising a private ride with a cab company.
It’s definitely worth planning at least half a day to explore the two historic towns at the start and finish of the Haute Route. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere and history of these cities, and enjoy the numerous cafes, restaurants, bars, and spas. You've definitely earned it.
Have fun!
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Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt
201km
13,980m
13,400m
Last updated: November 22, 2024
Do it yourself!
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Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full route below as a template.
Activities
1. Stage 1: Chamonix to Col de Balme – Haute Route
17.0km
03:12
1,250m
80m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
2. Stage 2: the Col de Balme to Orsières – Haute Route
21.3km
03:49
1,090m
2,420m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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3. Stage 3: Orsières to Cabane du Mont Fort – Haute Route
22.5km
04:25
2,090m
550m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4. Stage 4: Cabane du Mont Fort to Arolla – Haute Route
32.1km
05:53
1,470m
1,840m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5. Stage 5: Arolla to Zinal – Haute Route
31.2km
05:42
2,000m
2,320m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
6. Stage 6: Zinal to Saint Nicholas – Haute Route
35.6km
07:25
2,260m
2,830m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
7. Stage 7: Saint Nicholas to Zermatt – Haute Route
38.2km
07:52
3,180m
2,720m
Expert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Collection Stats
Activities
7
Distance
198 km
Duration
38:17 h
Elevation
13,340 m
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