TMB Stage 7: Lac Blanc to Chamonix

Quick stats: 5.63 mi (shortest stage) · +2,016 ft · high point Lac Blanc (2,352 m, highest lake on the TMB) · effort: moderate

Route

The shortest day of the trek, climbing up to Lac Blanc — the highest lake on the whole route — before the long, knee-testing descent into Chamonix. A fitting, scenic finale: the loop closes with Mont Blanc reflected in the water.

Water sources

Refuge du Lac Blanc, right at the lake, is the last realistic stop before the descent to Chamonix.

Where to stay

Hôtel Lyret, Chamonix — the finish line.

Conditions and gear

Shortest mileage of the trip but still real elevation gain, followed by a long downhill into town that’s harder on the knees than the numbers suggest. Trekking poles earn their keep on the descent.

FAQ

How hard is TMB Stage 7 (Lac Blanc to Chamonix)?

Moderate — it’s the shortest stage by distance, but the long descent into Chamonix is tougher on the knees than the mileage implies.

Where’s the last water before Chamonix on TMB Stage 7 (Lac Blanc to Chamonix)?

Refuge du Lac Blanc, right at the lake, before the final descent.

Is TMB Stage 7 (Lac Blanc to Chamonix) a good finale for the Tour du Mont Blanc?

Yes — Lac Blanc is the highest lake on the route and the views on the descent into Chamonix are a fitting way to close the loop.

Read the story: Stage 7 — Lac Blanc to La Flégère to Chamonix (journal)

Previous: TMB Stage 6 Guide: Trient to Argentière ←