Chamonix to Zermatt Haute Route
Guided Haute Route Ski Expedition
Chamonix to Zermatt
Join our team of professional mountain guides for the classic Haute Route, an iconic high-alpine ski traverse linking Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland. This legendary route is a bucket-list objective for ski mountaineers worldwide—an unforgettable journey through the heart of the European Alps.
First completed in 1910 by two doctors delivering medicine to snowbound villages, the Haute Route has evolved into one of the most celebrated ski tours on earth. Over six days and five nights, we’ll cover more than 100 kilometers and 25,000 vertical feet, crossing 12 glaciers, summiting select peaks, and experiencing the unparalleled beauty of the Alps.
Our expedition blends world-class skiing with the comfort and charm of European alpine huts, similar to those found in the San Juans of Colorado. While we’ll spend most of our time skinning, skiing, and booting across glaciated terrain, the Alps’ exceptional infrastructure allows us to focus on as much skiing as possible. We’ll begin by riding the Aiguille du Midi tram to the Mer de Glace glacier for a warm-up day of skiing and climbing, ensuring all gear and systems are dialed in. The following day, we’ll use lifts at the Grand Montets ski area to access the Argentière Glacier, continuing our high-alpine journey across spectacular terrain. From there, lifts in the Verbier ski area bring us to the Mont Fort Hut, a stunning perch above the valley and one of many welcoming alpine refuges along our route.
Spring conditions in the Alps offer remarkable variety—powder one day, perfect corn the next. When conditions permit, our guides may divide the group to explore steeper, more technical descents before regrouping each evening at our next hut.
Our expedition concludes in Zermatt, beneath the iconic Matterhorn. A luggage shuttle will deliver your gear, allowing you to relax, explore, or continue your European adventure.
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime guided ski traverse—an alpine classic led by experienced mountain professionals.
2026 DATES: March 31 - 6 and April 9 - 16
Trip cost: $3699
Proposed Itinerary:
Day 1: Shake down day of skiing in the Valle Blanche based out of Chamonix, France
Day 2: Ski from Chamonix to the Trient Hut
Day 3: Ski from Trient to Mont Fort Hut
Day 4: Ski from Mont Fort to Prafleuri Hut
Day 5: Ski from Prafleuri to Dix Hut
Day 6: Ski from Dix to Vignettes Hut
Day 7: Ski to Zermatt via a 9’000’ ski run to the center of town.*Like any ski tour in the high mountains, plans can change due to weather and avalanche conditions.
INCLUDED:
Ground transport from Chamonix to Zermatt while on the normal Haute Route itinerary
All lift tickets while on the normal itinerary
2 nights lodging in Chamonix and 1 night lodging in Zermatt in double occupancy with breakfast
5 nights mountain hut fees with breakfast, pack lunch, and dinner. (not bottled H2O or alcohol)Luggage transfer from Chamonix to Zermatt
Logistical travel support to help you get from and to the beginning and end of the tour
IFMGA/UIAGM American guides and all the guide's expensesNOT INCLUDED:
Alcohol, other beverages, and personal snacks.
Extra hotel stays if the tour changes to dangerous weather and avalanche conditions.
Train tickets or cab rides due to itinerary changes due to weather or avalanche conditions
FAQs
Who is the Haute Route intended for?
This ski tour is designed for advanced skiers with touring experience who want to build their skills and experience the French and Swiss Alps. Technical mountaineering skills are helpful but not essential. While there won’t be much time for dedicated instruction, this trip offers an excellent opportunity to expand your touring skill set. Crevasse rescue skills are not required. Before departure, all guests will receive a thorough briefing on hazards, expectations, and responsibilities.
Am I a strong enough skier?
Most of the skiing on this tour is moderately difficult—unless we choose to make it more challenging. However, there are several pitches of up to 40°, so participants should be confident black-diamond skiers. Each day involves roughly 4,000 feet of climbing, including sections where we’ll ascend couloirs in crampons.
Will you pick me up from the airport?
No. Logistically, it’s much easier for you to make your own way to Chamonix, where we’ll meet as a group. That said, we’re happy to help you find the best shuttle or transfer option.
Do I need an airbag?
An avalanche airbag is a personal choice. Given the amount of gear required for the tour, an airbag can add significant weight. However, there are lightweight options—such as the Ortovox Litric pack—that can be a nice compromise.
Is my pack big enough?
A 35–40L pack is sufficient for this tour. With the additional gear our guides carry, we’ve found this size works well for making it all the way to Zermatt.
What happens when we get to Zermatt?
Once we arrive in Zermatt, we’ll provide lodging for one night in town. After that, we’ll part ways. You can choose to stay and ski the world-class Matterhorn area, continue traveling, or head home from Zurich or another destination.
Do I need everything on the packing list?
Yes. The packing list has been refined over many years and multiple trips to the region. Some items may be for comfort in the huts and can be discussed prior to departure.
