Le Tour -> Bec de Lachat

Balme (Le Tour)

Chamonix

A trip to a rarely visited summit with stunning views of the neighbouring mountains.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
3.7 km
Ascent
974 m
Descent
6 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
1.5 km
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
27˚
MapGPX Flyover
Le Tour -> Bec de Lachat Map

Bec de Lachat is a peak with stunning views of almost the entire northern massif. Because this peak is rarely visited you will be rewarded with awe and solitude.

The bridge marks the start of the trail. After this bridge you will take the first upwards path you can find.
The bridge marks the start of the trail. After this bridge you will take the first upwards path you can find. Photo: Febe Waasdorp
These are some of the views you will encounter along the way.
These are some of the views you will encounter along the way. Photo: Febe Waasdorp
The bivouac
The bivouac Photo: Febe Waasdorp
Cairn marking the way upwards towards Bec de Lachat summit.
Cairn marking the way upwards towards Bec de Lachat summit. Photo: Febe Waasdorp
View from the summit cross.
View from the summit cross. Photo: Febe Waasdorp
Alternative view of summit cross with Argentiere and Chamonix in the background.
Alternative view of summit cross with Argentiere and Chamonix in the background. Photo: Febe Waasdorp
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Description

Above the treeline, there will be no more markers. Instead, the route is marked with cairns. The first cairn is a few meters after the bivouac on your left, then another cairn at the crossroad that leads you to either the summit of Bec de Lachat or a viewing point of the Argentiere glacier.

From this cairn, the path becomes steeper and in some parts, a bit vegetated but the steps provide a good footing. This is the path that will lead you straight to the summit cross of Bec de Lachat.

To go down you reverse the route back to the bridge.

The total trip will take you approximately 3-4 hours.

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike

Similar routes nearby

1.8 km away

Lac Blanc from Col des Montets

Lac Blanc from Col des Montets

Hike to Lac Blanc from Col des Montets on one of Chamonix's most famous hikes!

Severe Hiking

Distance
9.7 km
Ascent
995 m
Descent
995 m

1.8 km away

Tour du Mont Blanc: Montroc to la Flégère

Tour du Mont Blanc: Montroc to la Flégère

Day 10: The final day of the Tour and with expansive views across the Mont Blanc Massif, this is a fitting end to a great trip.

Difficult Hiking

Distance
16 km
Ascent
1.3 km
Descent
1.3 km

3 km away

Mont Buet

Mont Buet

Challenging alpine hike that summits Mont Buet along with other nearby peaks.

Extreme Hiking

Distance
24 km
Ascent
2.1 km
Descent
2.1 km

6.6 km away

Lac Blanc from La Flegere

Lac Blanc from La Flegere

Hike to Lac Blanc from La Flegere on one of Chamonix's most famous hikes!

Difficult Hiking

Distance
6.6 km
Ascent
566 m
Descent
566 m
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Guidebooks in this area

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