Peclery Hike your Bike

Chamonix

Stunning alpine scenery reserved for those who don't mind carrying their bike for it!

Mountain Biking Extreme

Distance: 10 km
Ascent: 745 m
Descent: 745 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 1.3 km
High Point: 2 km
Gradient: 18˚

This epic, but ultimately short lived ride takes in some stunning scenery and involves a physical carrying section from the Baclon Nord to the small alpage called Peclery. The first section of riding has some incredibly steep and tight switchbacks (all rideable if you have the skills!) of which most have some fairly serious consequences in case of a fall! After the initial tech the trail opens up to some fast long sections which are technically easy and super fun. The trail dries fast after rain and is in the sun in the afternoon so a good mission to do after riding a few runs at Le Tour.

Photo from Peclery Hike your Bike — Photo: Dave Searle

Description

The best starting point is in Argentiere by the church but this could easily be chanced to Le Tour or even Le Planet.

Ascent: From Argentiere ride up the road to Le tour and cross the bridge to the Balcon Nord. After a few hundred meters take the first left signposted Peclery. Steep pushing and carrying (not ebike friendly!) brings you to the alpage and the stone building of Peclery. From here a short section to the start of the descent brings you to a very epic view of the Chamonix Valley.

Descent: Steep switchbacks through the forest lead you you down to some more amicable trail riding that has plenty of exposure and consequence in case of a fall. Left then right is the best option for descent but most all sections of trails on this hillside are good so fear not if you lose the way!

Notes: Be aware of hikers as it's a popular hiking route. Be courteous and stop for them. Can be done as a "there and back" rather than a loop which is certainly less physical on the way up (possible to push the bike more) and gives you a chance to check out the steep switchbacks in ascent first. For this start in Argentiere and ride up to Le Planet to join the trail. This route is definitely not recommended unless your switchback riding is very strong!

Difficulty

Extreme

Very steep, difficult, narrow singletrack with widely variable and unpredictable trail conditions. Unavoidable obstacles could be 15in/38cm tall or greater, and unavoidable obstacles with serious consequences are likely to be present. Obstacles could include big rocks, difficult root sections, drops, jumps, sharp switchbacks, and more. Ideal for expert-level riders.