The valley floor is covered with walking, running and cycling paths. For a lovely beginner or family walk, head to the centre of Chamonix and start following the river up the valley. The path continues past Argentiere joining with many trail heads shooting up the mountains. It is tree covered and flat up until Les Tines, and is gently rolling thereafter. It is a great trail for there and back walks or you can continue on until you're tired then take the train back from one of the many stops you will be close to along the way. When you get to Les Praz, the trail drops off and can be found again by the entrance to the golf course.
Another great sightseeing walk would be the ice cave or "grotte de glace." Take the Montenvers train up from the centre of town and walk around the area checking out the shops, hotel and museum. Then take the lift and the stairs toward the glacier and ice cave. This is a great place to explore for the whole family. More info.
Gorge de la Diosaz
Just down the road from Chamonix, the Gorges de la Diosaz offers spectacular walks through the gorge sculpted by the power of a mountain river. Walk along a shaded and well equipped footpath. The trail weaves through the gorges and is often times even carved into rock.
In the summer months, especially July and August, the water flowing through the gorges is an impressive site to see. June and September see smaller quantities of water as the EDF (Electricité de France) turbines the water and releases it further down the gorges.
Visitors can learn more about the formation and geology of the gorge through informative boards spread along the trail.
