This trail runs all the way from Argentiere to Chamonix on the south
facing side of the valley. The trail is actually a walking track so the
top section in Argentiere is very tough. The best option is to join the
trail by the turn-off to the Grands Montets cable car.
Following along
the right side of the river heading towards Chamonix the trail
eventually drops down above the railway lines to Les Tines. Carry on
towards Chamonix until meeting an intersection where you have two
choices. Up a steep track on the right to the Petit Balcon Sud which
carries on all the way to Le Brevent in Chamonix, or continue along by
the riverside to Les Praz and then Chamonix.
Take the high route for
better riding and no traffic as the other trail meets the road in a few
places. The Petit balcon Sud is very tough to ride in the opposite
direction.
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Petit Balcon Nord
On the opposite side of the valley this trail runs from Chamonix to Le
Tour. A great trail passing through Le Lavancher, Argentiere and Le
Planet. It is easier riding from Le Tour to Chamonix but if you are fit
it is worth doing a circuit of the valley on both Balcons. This is
about 16kms and should around 3hrs. Very interesting riding on the
Petit Balcon Nord around the village of Le Planet.
Les Mottets
Situated at Les Planards in Chamonix, a 4x4 track rises directly up the
"winter piste" next to the luge track. Follow the 4x4 track as far as
it goes. The last 200m is unridable but the view of the Mer de Glace is
definitely worth it !!
A beautiful place for a picnic and well earned
rest.
1hr 30mins to the top, 20 mins descent to Chamonix.
Bois du Bouchet
In the area around Les Bois there
are many tracks and trails that follow the river splitting into many tracks by the
paragliding landing zones. Most of these run along the flat on both
sides of the river. They can lead south into Chamonix via the Bois du
Bouchet or carry on further up the valley via Le Lavancher on the Petit Balcon Nord.
It is possible to make many loops or circuits and not be riding on the
same trails. A perfect place to ride for children and the inexperienced.
