Where to Ski in Chamonix: Ultimate Guide to Les Houches, Le Tour, Brévent, Flégère & Grands Montets
If you have seen our "Where to Ski in Chamonix" video on YouTube, you already know how breathtaking this valley is
This article goes deeper covering each of the five main ski resorts in Chamonix, insider travel tips, and must-try runs that will help you plan your next unforgettable adventure.
Watch the Video First
Before you read on, watch our cinematic guide to “Where to Ski in Chamonix - then come back for snow & ski resorts insights, and resort-by-resort breakdown.
This video will give you a quick idea on how breathtaking slopes, charming alpine villages look like and will also provide insider tips on where to ski first.
Why Chamonix is a Must-Ski Destination
Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is home to five incredible ski resorts and over 150 kilometers of trails for all skill levels - from beginner greens to extreme off-piste descents. There are multiple reason why Chamonix is a must visit ski destination for many skiers and snowboarders:
Majestic Alpine Beauty.
The valley is legendary for its mix of world-class skiing, alpine culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. The stunning peaks, including the iconic Mont Blanc, create a dramatic backdrop that captivates visitors. Whether you're a skier or not, the sheer beauty of the landscape is reason enough to visit Chamonix. You can take cable cars or enjoy hiking trails to appreciate the awe-inspiring views.
Vibrant atmosphere in the town
The town offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
You can enjoy a mix of local Savoyard cuisine and international flavors. It also has several museums and exhibitions that showcase the history, geology, and mountaineering heritage of the region. Chamonix hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world. These include the Chamonix Adventure Festival, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, the Cosmo Jazz Festival, and various ski competitions. These events add to the vibrant atmosphere and offer unique experiences for tourists.
Also note, Chamonix is international place and you can meet visitors from almost all countries around the world. As Chamonix is located in France, French is the official language of the town and is widely spoken by the local population. However, due to its popularity as an international tourist destination, many people in Chamonix, especially those working in the tourism industry, also have a good command of English. You should be able to communicate effectively in English in most hotels, restaurants, and tourist-oriented establishments
Superb Skiing and Snowboarding opportunities:
Chamonix is world-renowned for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences. With five ski resorts spread across the stunning Chamonix Valley and more than 150 kilometers of slopes, the region caters to all levels — from beginners learning their first turns to seasoned experts chasing adrenaline-filled descents. The valley’s challenging terrain, steep slopes, and legendary off-piste routes make it a true paradise for advanced skiers. If you’re an intermediate or expert skier seeking a once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude adventure, explore the famous Vallée Blanche — a 23-kilometer off-piste descent with an incredible 2,800-meter vertical drop from the Aiguille du Midi summit at 3,842 meters. Unlike traditional resorts, the Vallée Blanche offers a natural, ungroomed experience through glaciers, powder fields, and dramatic alpine landscapes. It’s a demanding yet unforgettable journey that requires booking a certified mountain guide to safely navigate its crevasses and ever-changing snow conditions. The outstanding skiing and snowboarding in Chamonix stem from its unique geography and interconnected resorts, each offering distinct terrain and panoramic views of the Mont Blanc Massif. Every one of the five ski areas deserves its own visit — which is why I’ve included not just key facts about each, but also insider highlights and tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Important Note: We recommend checking daily conditions in the Chamonix mobile app — top runs may be ungroomed and technical depending on weather.
1. Les Houches (Le Zoosh) — Best for Beginners & Families
If you are new to skiing or visiting Chamonix for the first time, Les Houches (also known as Le Zoosh) is the perfect place to start. Located just 6 km from town, it's accessible by bus or train — no need to stress about parking.
Highlights
- Excellent mix of green, blue, red, and black trails
- Home to Alpine Ski World Cup events. Try out Kandahar Olympic Black run!
- Multiple cafes and restaurants with panoramic views from Prarion Peak.
- Fun non-ski options like snowshoeing and snow tubing
- Top to bottom runs can be closed in early March due to lack of snow
- Best Runs: Kandahar (Black), Plancerts (Red), Abbaye (Blue)
- Snow quality - Heavy (wet) snow around noon - Slopes can be icy in early morning. South facing ski area.
Tip: Beginners can start near the Prarion gondola area and work up to the scenic blue trails higher up the mountain.
Quick Facts — Les Houches
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 6,560 ft (2,000 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 3,300 ft (1,000 m) |
| Skiable Area | 55 km of slopes |
| Number of Ski Runs | 29 |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner 20% · Intermediate 50% · Expert 30% |
| % of Trails Groomed | 70% |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | 15–20 minutes |
| Chamonix Pass Coverage | Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (€75/day approx.) |
Stats source – en.chamonix.com
Watch on YouTube
2. Le Tour — Scenic Runs for Intermediates
Located at the northern end of the valley, Le Tour offers wide, sunny slopes and great snow conditions through most of the season.
Highlights
- Fantastic choice of blue and red runs for intermediates.
- Reliable snow cover even in late season.
- A cozy mountain cafe perfect for a midday break
- Top to bottom runs can be closed in early March due to lack of snow
- Best Runs: Solonges (Red), Liaison Balme (Blue), Chatelet (Red)
- Snow quality - Heavy (wet) snow around noon - Slopes can be icy in early morning. Majority of slopes face south (sun) during the day.
Bonus: Dedicated beginner zone ensures new skiers can learn comfortably away from faster traffic.
Quick Facts — Le Tour
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 7,200 ft (2,200 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 4,000 ft (1,220 m) |
| Skiable Area | 70 km of slopes |
| Number of Runs | 19 |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner 25% · Intermediate 55% · Expert 20% |
| % of Trails Groomed | 80% |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | 20–25 minutes |
| Chamonix Pass Coverage | Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (€75/day approx.) |
Stats source: skiresort.info
Watch on YouTube
3. Le Brevent - Panoramic Skiing Above Chamonix
Brevent sits directly above downtown Chamonix, offering epic views of Mont Blanc and easy access via gondola.
Highlights
- Mind-blowing panoramic views on Mont Blanc massif .
- Steeper trails perfect for intermediate and expert skiers.
- Snow quality - Heavy (wet) snow around noon - Slopes can be icy in early morning. South facing ski area
- Top to bottom runs are typically closed during entire season with exception years with good snowfall / low temps
- Best Runs: Charles C. Bozon (Black - Experts), Blanchots (Blue), Vioz (Red)
- A summit cafe with one of the best lunch views in the Alps.
Tip: Combine Brevent and Flegere in a single day via connecting trails and lifts for a full mountain experience
Quick Facts Brevent
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 8,400 ft (2,525 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 3,900 ft (1,185 m) |
| Skiable Area | 56 km of slopes |
| Number of Runs | 16 |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner 10% · Intermediate 60% · Expert 30% |
| % of Trails Groomed | 75% |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | 5 minutes by bus or gondola |
| Chamonix Pass Coverage | Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (€75/day approx.) |
Stats source: skiresort.info
Watch on YouTube
4. La Flegere - A Sunny Slopes and Steep Challenges
Neighboring Brevent , Flegere features high-altitude terrain and varied pistes from groomed blue runs to mogul-filled black trails.
Highlights
- Ideal for off piste skiing and/or skiing to/from Brevent
- Known for stunning views and challenging red trails
- Easily accessed from the village of Les Praz by gondola or bus
- Snow quality - Heavy (wet) snow around noon - Slopes can be icy in early morning. South facing ski area.
- Best Runs: Chrochues (Red), Floria (Black), Chavanne (Blue)
- Top to bottom runs are typically closed during entire season with exception years with good snowfall / low temps.
Tip: Combine Brevent and Flegere in a single day via connecting trails and lifts for a full mountain experience
Quick Facts Flegere
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 8,200 ft (2,500 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 3,900 ft (1,185 m) |
| Skiable Area | 65 km of slopes |
| Number of Runs | 17 |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner 15% · Intermediate 55% · Expert 30% |
| % of Trails Groomed | 75% |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | 10 minutes |
| Chamonix Pass Coverage | Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (€75/day approx.) |
Stats source: skiresort.info
Watch on YouTube
5. Grands Montets -The Powder Paradise
If you are looking for the best snow and most vertical drop in Chamonix, Grands Montets is your destination.
Highlights
- Altitude: 1,200 m - 3,200 m
- North-facing slopes preserve powder longer.
- Ideal for advanced and expert skiers.
- Offers glacier access and legendary off-piste routes
- Snow quality - Best in the Valley - Light/Dry Powder
- Best Runs: Blanchots (Black - Experts), Bochard (Red), Marmottons (Blue), Pierre A Ric (Red) the only top to botton in the valley!
- Top to bottom runs are typically closed during entire season with exception years with good snowfall / low temps.
Tip: Very top of the mountain provides the best free ride experience with mind blowing views!
Note: Some upper lifts remain under reconstruction after a 2018 fire check the Chamonix app for updates before you go.
Even with limited upper access, Grands Montets remains a highlight for powder lovers and steep-terrain fans thanks to its long top-to-bottom runs like Pierre a Ric.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 10,500 ft (3,275 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 4,000 ft (1,235 m) |
| Skiable Area | 90 km of slopes |
| Number of Runs | 2 |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner 5% Intermediate 45% Expert 50% |
| % of Trails Groomed | 60% |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | 15 minutes by bus |
| Chamonix Pass Coverage | Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (€75/day approx.) |
skiresort.info Watch on YouTube
6. Bonus Trip: Courmayeur, Italy
Just through the Mont Blanc Tunnel, you'll find Courmayeur — a charming Italian resort easily reachable by bus from Chamonix. Its not just the best Italian food in the area, but also best groomed trails that many skiers appreciate!
Highlights
- Best groomed trails near Chamonix - Expect beautifully groomed blue and red trails
- Cozy mountain restaurants, and some of the best food in the Alps.
- Don't miss your lunch at the restaurant called Zerotta. This place is conveniently located at the bottom on the northern side of Courmayeur and can be accessed from variety of ski trails that lead to the Zerrota lift station. Zerotta restaurant offered big selection of classic Italian foods and we really enjoyed minestrone soup, carpaccio, and warm, handmade, Italian bread
- Best Runs: Youla (Red), Internazionale (Red), Diagonale Peindent (Blue)
- Snow quality: North facing slopes offer powder alike snow. Slopes can be icy in early morning and turn into heavy snow after noon
- Top to bottom run (Dolonnee) is usually open during entire season but snow turns into slush after 12 pm.
Quick Facts — Courmayeur (Italy)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation Top (feet/meters) | 9,035 ft (2,755 m) |
| Elevation Base (feet/meters) | 4,016 ft (1,224 m) |
| Skiable Area | ~42 km of slopes |
| Number of Runs | 33 (11 blue / 17 red / 5 black) |
| Terrain by Level | Beginner ~27% Intermediate ~59% Expert ~14% |
| % of Trails Groomed | ~82% with artificial snow coverage |
| Distance from Chamonix Center (by bus) | ~45 minutes via Mont Blanc Tunnel |
| Pass | Not included in Chamonix's Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass (combo tickets occasionally offered) |
Getting Around Chamonix
Public transportation is your best friend here. Buses and trains efficiently connect all major resorts — often faster and cheaper than driving.
Parking can be limited, especially during weekends and holidays.
Pro tip: Use Public Transport for access to all five Chamonix ski areas (and Courmayeur!).
Beyond Skiing
Chamonix isn't only about skiing — it's an alpine adventure hub:
- Ice climbing & mountaineering
- Paragliding above Mont Blanc
- Snowshoeing through forest trails
Plan Your Chamonix Ski Trip
| Category | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Best for beginners | Les Houches (Le Zoosh) & Le Tour (note Le Tour offers dedicated beginners area!) |
| Best snow quality | Grands Montets |
| Best panoramic views | Brévent & Flégère |
| Best for intermediates | Le Tour |
| Best day trip | Courmayeur, Italy |
All 5 Chamonix Ski Resorts at a Glance
A quick comparison of the five main ski resorts in the Chamonix Valley - including their vertical drop, skiable area, and terrain distribution by difficulty level.
| Ski Resort | Altitude (Base/Top) | Vertical Drop | Skiable Area | Terrain by Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Tour / Domaine de Balme | 4,000 ft / 7,200 ft | 2,460 ft (750 m) | 70 km | Beg. 25% · Interm. 55% · Expert 20% |
| Les Houches (Le Zoosh) | 3,300 ft / 6,560 ft | 3,280 ft (1,000 m) | 55 km | Beg. 20% · Interm. 50% · Expert 30% |
| Flégère | 3,900 ft / 8,200 ft | 4,265 ft (1,300 m) | 65 km | Beg. 15% · Interm. 55% · Expert 30% |
| Brévent | 3,900 ft / 8,400 ft | 4,500 ft (1,340 m) | 56 km | Beg. 10% · Interm. 60% · Expert 30% |
| Grands Montets | 4,000 ft / 10,500 ft | 6,500 ft (1,980 m) | 90 km | Beg. 5% · Interm. 45% · Expert 50% |
Sources: Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, Chamonix.com, Skiresort.info, and ChamonixAllYear.com.
Note: Terrain percentages are approximate, derived from published run distributions.
Final Thoughts
From beginner-friendly slopes to expert off-piste challenges, Chamonix offers something for everyone - with views and memories that last a lifetime.
If you are a beginner, start with ski resorts that offer dedicated beginners areas.
Intermediate skiers will get biggest bang for their buck by visiting all 5 ski resorts as they all offer same ski pass and are located in close proximity.
Grands Montets is a top destination for experts, but if Charles Bozon trail is open, Brevent can offer unforgetable skiing experience from its top.
If you haven't yet, make sure to watch our full YouTube video for real-footage insights, ski trail previews, and travel tips from our visit.
Article is written by Andy Newman - NextOutdoorAdventures Founder, October 28, 2025
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