Mont Blanc Summit Course

Enduring France

Mont Blanc Summit Course

CLIMB MONT BLANC AND EXPERIENCE THE BIRTHPLACE OF MOUNTAINEERING.

Our LHO Mont Blanc Summit Course offers the most comprehensive and all-inclusive alpine mountaineering experience, going well beyond just a Mont Blanc climb. This meticulously crafted and flexible program is designed to provide a truly immersive Mont Blanc guided climb, placing strong emphasis on building your alpine knowledge and technical skills. It fosters the confidence and passion required not only to climb Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, but also to take on future alpine challenges with assurance and enthusiasm.

Climbing and Mountaineering

TRIP TYPE

Climbing and Mountaineering

Trip duration

DURATION

8 Days

Trip Destination

DESTINATION

France

1

An all inclusive climbing experience featuring basic training, multiple summits including Mont Blanc and alternative summits during adverse weather, at no extra cost.

2

Relive the adventure with at least two days of exclusive expedition photography captured by your LHO Team Leader, included as part of our standard offering.

3

Guided by a specialised LHO Expedition Coordinator and certified IFMGA guides, ensuring a seamless, safe experience, with full support on and off the mountain.

Trip photographer to capture it all
Small groups and great community vibes only
No hidden costs its all included
Hassle free airport to airport service
Directly led by us and our local experts
Carefully curated to make it all epic

Dates & Prices

2025

DATE & STATUS

PRICE

TEAM LEADER

AVAILABILITY

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP

  • Dedicated LHO Team Leader/Photographer
  • Carefully Selected IFMGA Guides
  • 2:1 Guide Ratio When Climbing Mont Blanc
  • 3 Nights in a Trendy, Comfortable Hotel in the Chamonix Valley
  • Mountain Hut Accommodation on Climbing Days
  • All Meals Throughout the Trip
  • Bottled Water in the Mountain Huts
  • All Cable Car and Train Passes
  • Airport Transfers Between Geneva and Chamonix
  • All Transportation Within the Itinerary
  • Alternative Summits When Mont Blanc is not Possible
  • Group Mountaineering Equipment
  • Fitness and Nutrition Guides
  • Gear Shopping Assistance
  • LHO Base Camp (Office) Support

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP

  • International Flights and Entry Visas
  • Tips/Gratuities to the Local Team
  • Personal Gear and Rentals
  • Personal Medical/Travel/Cancellation Insurance
  • Any Extra Nights Beyond Those Listed in the Itinerary
  • Individual Departure from the Itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1: WELCOME TO EPIC CHAMONIX

The first day of our itinerary is arrival day. If you’re arriving at Geneva airport, our transfer partners will meet you and take you to our hotel in the Chamonix Valley. Airport transfers are included between 6:30 am and 7:30 pm. Please inform LHO Base Camp of your arrival and departure times. If you’re meeting us directly at the hotel, your LHO Team Leader will be waiting for you there. Hotel check in usually begins at 3 pm, but early arrivals can store their bags and explore. Your Team Leader will send a list of things to do in Chamonix closer to the time. If you need to rent gear, we recommend arriving early, as shops close at 7 pm and we aim for an early start the next day. A team dinner and briefing will take place at 7:30 pm, hosted by your Team Leader and lead mountain guide. Gear checks will be coordinated throughout the day.

DAY 2: ONTO THE VALLEE BLANCHE

Our first day together starts early. After breakfast, we depart the hotel and drive through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Courmayeur on the Italian side. From there, we take the Skyway cable car to Punta Helbronner, perched at the edge of the glacier. This stunning destination draws visitors from across Europe to experience the Mont Blanc region up close. Upon arrival, we descend by elevator and walk through a tunnel to reach the Torino Hut, our base for the next two nights. We choose the Torino Hut for its high altitude, easy access, and multiple summit options from a single refuge. After checking in and grabbing a quick bite, we head straight to the glacier to begin training. The session includes crampon techniques, using an ice axe, and rope skills for glacier travel. Dinner and overnight will be at the Torino Hut, where we rest and prepare for the exciting climbs ahead.

DAY 3: GLACIERS & SUMMITS

Distance: 4.5 KM | Ascent: 362 | Descent: 363 | Max Altitude: 3,375 M

 

Our second day together starts at a comfortable pace. Breakfast is served at 7 am, and we aim to be out on the glacier by 9 am, weather permitting. The goal of the day is to practice walking in rope teams, navigating glaciers, and attempting a summit. This day is designed for flexibility—some conditions may allow for multiple objectives, while others may limit us to one. Common summits we aim for include Petit Flambeau and La Toule. No matter the outcome, this day is always a highlight of the experience. We will carry packed lunches for a picnic on the trail and aim to spend a full day out in the mountains, immersed in hands-on learning and alpine adventure. In the afternoon, we return to the Torino Hut for dinner and rest. This day is key to building confidence and skill before we head deeper into the mountains on the following days.

DAY 4: THE RIDGES OF THE MARBREES TRAVERSE

Distance: 3.4 KM | Ascent: 231 M | Descent: 265 M | Max Altitude: 3,535 M

 

Our final morning at the Torino Hut begins with a traverse of the Aiguilles Marbrées, a dramatic ridge flanked by Dent du Géant and Grandes Jorasses. This summit is close to the hut and offers ideal training with glacier travel, ridge climbing, and exposure at altitude—perfect preparation for Mont Blanc. We begin by crossing the Glacier du Géant and ascending the east ridge, a mix of easy climbing and endurance. If conditions allow, we continue past the summit, traversing the ridge’s south side and descending via abseil. This shortcut avoids a long glacier crossing and brings us closer to the hut. If conditions do not permit, we retrace our route. We usually return to the Torino Hut in time for lunch, then descend by cable car and drive back to Chamonix. The night is spent at our hotel in the valley, where rest and recovery are the priority. Dinner is hosted at a local restaurant or hotel.

DAY 5: DEPARTING FOR THE MONT BLANC

Distance: 3.3 KM | Ascent: 805 M | Descent: 0 M | Max Altitude: 3,167 M

 

We start our day later than usual, typically around midday, to allow for rest before the big ascent. From Les Houches, we take the Bellevue cable car and the Mont Blanc mountain train to Nid d’Aigle. From there, a three-hour trek brings us to the Tête Rousse Hut. This steady ascent does not require technical gear. Along the way, we often spot mountain goats grazing in the lower elevations. We stop for a picnic lunch near the Rogne Forestière hut before continuing to the Tête Rousse glacier. Crossing the glacier rarely requires gear, though it may during certain seasons. After checking in, we rest while guides and Team Leader consult with the hut guardian on weather and conditions to plan the summit attempt. A full summit briefing will be given after dinner, both as a group and in individual rope teams. This marks the beginning of our Mont Blanc summit phase.

DAY 6: SUMMIT WINDOW 1

Distance: 10.2 KM | Ascent: 1,743 M | Descent: 1,063 M | Max Altitude: 4,810 M

 

We aim to leave the Tête Rousse Hut by 4 am to reach the Grand Couloir in cold, stable conditions. Early light helps visibility, and colder temperatures reduce rockfall risk. The ascent to the Gouter Hut takes around 2.5 hours. Once there, we rest for about 45 minutes, enjoy something warm, and offload gear not needed for the summit. The climb continues over the Dome du Gouter, a 4,000-meter summit with long, steady switchbacks. From its top, Mont Blanc comes into view. After a brief descent, we reach the Vallot Hut, used for shelter in bad weather. We then climb a series of moguls—six false summits—with the first and third being the steepest and most exposed. Finally, we reach the summit ridge, a 100-meter stretch requiring focus and steady footing. The summit is broad, offering space for celebration and photos. We then retrace our steps to the Gouter Hut for dinner and rest.

DAY 7: SUMMIT WINDOW 2

Distance: 5 KM | Ascent: 9 M | Descent: 1,500 M

 

If the team reached the summit the day before, this day is focused on descending. We aim for an early start to cross the Grand Couloir before the sun warms the terrain. Depending on the season and train schedule, we may have breakfast at the Tête Rousse Hut or further down the trail as a picnic. We typically reach the train by 11 am and arrive in Chamonix by 12:30 pm. It’s tradition to stop for a quick drink and snack near the cable station before heading to the hotel for a shower. The afternoon is free for returning gear, buying souvenirs, or relaxing in Chamonix. A celebratory team dinner will be held at 6:30 pm, hosted by your Team Leader and any available LHO guides. If the summit was reached on the second weather window, we may arrive in Chamonix later in the afternoon and adjust the plan accordingly.

DAY 8: AU REVOIR!

Our final day together will be dedicated to airport transfers and farewells. Breakfast is included on the day. Please make sure that you provide us with your correct departure details when filling out your team details form as we use it to book your transfers to Geneva airport with our transfer partners. If there are any changes to your travel itinerary, please let your LHO Team Leader know as early as possible so that arrangements can be made.

OUR COMMITMENT

OUR COMMITMENT

We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone involved in our services receives a fair living wage in their respective countries. We invest in our team members, fostering upward mobility within the adventure travel industry, expanding educational opportunities, and offering support wherever we can. By joining an LHO adventure you are directly impacting the incredible people and the remote communities that make these life-changing experiences possible.

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HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES

We do our best to ensure your wellbeing on LHO adventures. That's why the facilities we use throughout our trips are required to meet our health and safety standards. We also follow the laws and protocols of every country that hosts our adventures. This extends to national regulations requiring Covid-19 testing, vaccination certificates, mask wearing or any other local guidelines that may apply. Contact us for the most up to date protocols related to your destination.

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Highlight Video

From The LHO Community

A completely transformative experience both mentally and physically!! Highly recommended for anyone looking to push the limits even if it ends in a few tears 😂😂😂

A completely transformative experience both mentally and physically!! Highly recommended for anyone looking to push the limits even if it ends in a few tears 😂😂😂

Noor Arar

I don’t know where to begin, but this trip has been one of the best life experiences I have had. The organization was on point, and I never felt worried about anything as Rami went above and beyond to accommodate all of us. When I read that there will be “professional photos taken” I expected 1-2 photos taken. However, I received tons of beautiful photos taken by Rami. He basically jumped around from team to team to make sure all of our photos were taken, and that ways a lot. The program itself has a great build up, which I really appreciated. I enjoyed the training as much as the journey to the summit of Mont Blanc. The guides were wonderful. My favorite day was the day we pushed to the summit, the feeling of accomplishment is indescribable. If you are thinking of signing up for this trip, do not think twice, you’ll have the time of your life! This will definitely not be my last trip with LHO

I don’t know where to begin, but this trip has been one of the best life experiences I have had. The organization was on point, and I never felt worried about anything as Rami went above and beyond to accommodate all of us. When I read that there will be “professional photos taken” I expected 1-2 photos taken. However, I received tons of beautiful photos taken by Rami. He basically jumped around from team to team to make sure all of our photos were taken, and that ways a lot. The program itself has a great build up, which I really appreciated. I enjoyed the training as much as the journey to the summit of Mont Blanc. The guides were wonderful. My favorite day was the day we pushed to the summit, the feeling of accomplishment is indescribable. If you are thinking of signing up for this trip, do not think twice, you’ll have the time of your life! This will definitely not be my last trip with LHO

EXPAND

Ahmed Al Monsouri

From the moment I landed in Geneva till the last hour of the trip, everything was perfect. Going to the Alps had been a dream of mine for a long time, and LHO made it one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Rami and Ghida greeted us with utmost generosity, and the team bonded with each other in no time! Everything ranging from accommodation to transportation was carefully planned and seamlessly executed. The guides Philip and Fred were very professional and played a big part in our success. I can go on for hours talking about my experience, but to sum it up, I learnt that it’s all about the journey rather than the summit. Learning from professionals like Rami, Fred and Philip was a real blessing as an 18 year old going into the mountaineering world. The team spirit and mentality during this climb truly reflects the real meaning of mountaineering. If you’re looking to get a taste of alpinism, don’t think twice, go with LHO. The experiences and memories will stay with you for a long long time!

From the moment I landed in Geneva till the last hour of the trip, everything was perfect. Going to the Alps had been a dream of mine for a long time, and LHO made it one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Rami and Ghida greeted us with utmost generosity, and the team bonded with each other in no time! Everything ranging from accommodation to transportation was carefully planned and seamlessly executed. The guides Philip and Fred were very professional and played a big part in our success. I can go on for hours talking about my experience, but to sum it up, I learnt that it’s all about the journey rather than the summit. Learning from professionals like Rami, Fred and Philip was a real blessing as an 18 year old going into the mountaineering world. The team spirit and mentality during this climb truly reflects the real meaning of mountaineering. If you’re looking to get a taste of alpinism, don’t think twice, go with LHO. The experiences and memories will stay with you for a long long time!

EXPAND

Nareg Panossian

I’ve known members of the LHO community since the company was founded and have been wanting to join and be part of that community ever since. And after a long wait, my first and most recent trip with LHO has been to summit the Mont Blanc. Though I’ve hiked several mountains this has been my first alpine climbing experience and definitely not the last one. It has been one full of learnings, exploring and testing my limits on many levels. The team were very accommodating to our needs ensuring that everything ran smoothly including the logistics of the whole trip. I also like the fact that they consider every person a part of the LHO community once you are onboard. I do hope to experience and be part of more adventures in the future!!

I’ve known members of the LHO community since the company was founded and have been wanting to join and be part of that community ever since. And after a long wait, my first and most recent trip with LHO has been to summit the Mont Blanc. Though I’ve hiked several mountains this has been my first alpine climbing experience and definitely not the last one. It has been one full of learnings, exploring and testing my limits on many levels. The team were very accommodating to our needs ensuring that everything ran smoothly including the logistics of the whole trip. I also like the fact that they consider every person a part of the LHO community once you are onboard. I do hope to experience and be part of more adventures in the future!!

EXPAND

Aisha Alnaama

Grateful to Rami, entire LHO team and mountain guides for showing us what we were capable of achieving. Their expertise and support made it a dream come true. Rami is genuine, we will return! 🏔️🙌 #MontBlancAdventure

Grateful to Rami, entire LHO team and mountain guides for showing us what we were capable of achieving. Their expertise and support made it a dream come true. Rami is genuine, we will return! 🏔️🙌 #MontBlancAdventure

EXPAND

Hema Patel

Great trip. Rami n team did tremendous job! Pushing my limits beyond.

Great trip. Rami n team did tremendous job! Pushing my limits beyond.

Brackmann

Extraordinary trip for Extraordinary adventurers, started with technical mountain courses with professional guides and end with summited the top of Mont Blanc, LHO are amazing team, taking care of everything and make sure all the clients are comfortable & happy.

Extraordinary trip for Extraordinary adventurers, started with technical mountain courses with professional guides and end with summited the top of Mont Blanc, LHO are amazing team, taking care of everything and make sure all the clients are comfortable & happy.

EXPAND

Faiza

This trip completely changed my perspective on life. It taught me that there is so much more to life than I had imagined. I met some beautiful human beings along the way and now I can't wait for my next adventure with LHO.

This trip completely changed my perspective on life. It taught me that there is so much more to life than I had imagined. I met some beautiful human beings along the way and now I can't wait for my next adventure with LHO.

EXPAND

Fitness Critic

This is my second time to join this Mont Blanc Summit trip. The first time was very windy so unfortunately we couldn't summit, just 300m away. But this time, although weather conditions were even more unpredictable, we pushed through with the support and encouragement of the team leader and mountain guides and in the end all reached the top of the Alps. I couldn't describe how grateful I am to the guides who pushed my limit and carried me through the tough moments. This is an unforgettable trip that I'll treasure forever.

This is my second time to join this Mont Blanc Summit trip. The first time was very windy so unfortunately we couldn't summit, just 300m away. But this time, although weather conditions were even more unpredictable, we pushed through with the support and encouragement of the team leader and mountain guides and in the end all reached the top of the Alps. I couldn't describe how grateful I am to the guides who pushed my limit and carried me through the tough moments. This is an unforgettable trip that I'll treasure forever.

EXPAND

Catherine

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Great trip. You never cease to impress and support. looking forward to more! Big Love

Great trip. You never cease to impress and support. looking forward to more! Big Love

Romy Habre

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to climb Mont Blanc?

The best time to climb Mont Blanc is typically from early June to mid-September. At Life Happens Outdoors, we recommend late May, June, July, and early September for the most stable conditions. We avoid August due to rising temperatures that cause unstable glaciers and increased rockfall, especially in the Grand Couloir. Local authorities have even closed huts during heatwaves to reduce risk. With changing mountain weather patterns, we now offer climbs from the third week of May. For a safer and more enjoyable experience, we advise avoiding August when conditions are most unpredictable and hazardous.

How long does it take to summit Mont Blanc?

Climbing Mont Blanc via the normal Goûter Route typically takes 2 to 3 days, with 1 or 2 nights spent on the mountain. At Life Happens Outdoors, we allocate 3 days and 2 nights for the ascent, allowing flexibility for weather and increasing summit success chances. It’s essential to also plan for 2 to 3 acclimatisation days before the climb. Our Mont Blanc Summit Course includes these days as part of the program to improve safety, performance, and overall success. Proper acclimatisation is key to taking on the Mont Blanc climbing challenge with confidence and care.

How hard is it to climb Mont Blanc?

The Mont Blanc climb is physically demanding and should not be underestimated. Difficulty depends heavily on conditions, but the route involves a sustained, relentless slope with few chances to rest. Unlike mountains such as Kilimanjaro, steady movement is critical for safety, and long breaks are not an option. While not highly technical, the climb is still serious, especially for first-time alpine climbers. Many choose Mont Blanc as their introduction to mountaineering, which adds to the challenge. When factoring in physical strain and limited recovery time, the Mont Blanc summit is a formidable yet incredibly rewarding achievement.

How much does it cost to climb Mont Blanc?

The cost to climb Mont Blanc depends on whether you choose a guide-only or all inclusive experience. Guide-only options may seem cheaper but often exclude essentials like accommodation, meals, transport, lift passes, and even guide expenses—costs that add up quickly. At Life Happens Outdoors, our all inclusive package covers everything from airport to airport: full board, guide fees, huts, transport, group gear, and flexible summit alternatives if conditions shift. We also include at least two days of professional trip photography, making us the only Mont Blanc outfitter to offer this as part of the standard itinerary.

What do you need to climb Mont Blanc?

Climbing Mont Blanc requires specific technical gear, including a helmet, harness, mountaineer’s ice axe, climbing grade boots, and crampons. On Life Happens Outdoors trips, your guide carries additional equipment such as ropes, slings, carabiners, and other mountaineering tools to support the climb. But gear alone isn’t enough—you also need the right mindset. A positive, resilient attitude and the understanding that reaching the summit isn’t always guaranteed are essential. Embracing the scale and challenge of the Mont Blanc climb with determination and humility is just as important as the equipment you bring.

How do you climb Mont Blanc?

Climbing Mont Blanc is a full mountain experience involving multiple terrains and skills. It begins with a trek from Nid d’Aigle to Tête Rousse, followed by a rocky scramble to the Gouter Hut—sometimes with crampons, depending on conditions. From there, the route crosses a glacier toward the Dome du Gouter and Abri Vallot. The final push includes steep snow ridges requiring precise footwork, solid crampon technique, and confident use of a mountaineer’s ice axe. The descent follows the same route. It’s a challenging but deeply rewarding climb that combines endurance, technical skill, and true alpine spirit.

Will there be training on how to use crampons and other technical gear during the Mont Blanc Summit Course?

Yes. On Life Happens Outdoors trips, we include training as part of the itinerary and assume that all our joiners are experiencing technical mountaineering for the very first time. Before the Mont Blanc climb, you'll be introduced to the use of crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and other essential equipment to ensure you feel confident and safe throughout your Mont Blanc climbing experience. This preparation is a key part of helping you reach the Mont Blanc summit with the skills and knowledge you need.

Would it be too hot on summit day to use ski pants or just thin waterproof pants?

Removable layers are best for summer mountaineering in the Alps. On the Mont Blanc climb, weather can shift quickly, especially during the summit push, so flexibility is key. Ski pants are often too thick and warm for milder conditions and may cause discomfort on the ascent. Instead, we recommend a three layer system: a thermal base layer, mountaineering pants, and a waterproof or Gore Tex shell. These separate, detachable layers allow you to adapt to changing temperatures and conditions throughout your Mont Blanc climbing journey, keeping you comfortable, dry, and prepared for whatever the mountain throws your way.

Is it possible to find gear in Chamonix to climb Mont Blanc?

Yes. There are many options in Chamonix to rent or buy gear for your Mont Blanc climb. From crampons and ice axes to mountaineering boots and waterproof layers, the town is well equipped to support your Mont Blanc climbing needs. If you plan to purchase essentials upon arrival, we recommend arriving at least a day earlier to ensure you have enough time to get everything you need before the Mont Blanc summit itinerary begins.

Which hiking or mountaineering boots would you recommend to climb Mont Blanc?

You won’t need hiking boots for this trip, as you’ll be using mountaineering boots throughout the Mont Blanc climb. Mountaineering boots are stiffer than regular trekking boots and are specifically designed to fit crampons used during Mont Blanc climbing. These boots have become highly specialised, and choosing the right boot depends on the type of mountaineering you plan to pursue. A boot suitable for high altitude PD routes like the Mont Blanc summit is very different from one designed for ridge climbs or more technical routes. If you're new to mountaineering, we recommend renting boots from Chamonix for this trip. After experiencing the week, you can speak with your guide or your Life Happens Outdoors team leader to reflect on how you see yourself progressing beyond this course. That way, you’ll get the best recommendations on what to buy if you decide to continue your mountaineering journey. If you want to buy mountaineering boots, we suggest the La Sportiva GTX Cube. It's best suited for something like the Mont Blanc, and you’re likely to use it for most climbs in the future.

Discover More

How Hard is the Mont Blanc?

Exploring the Gouter Route – Mont Blanc’s “Easiest” Ascent

How to Prepare Physically and Mentally to Climb Mont Blanc

PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE

FROM £4,340

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TELL YOUR FRIENDS
An adventure holiday for anyone with a pulse. No fitness requirements or prerequisites. Come as you are. Great for those who already train 1-2 times per week or would like to use this upcoming adventure as an opportunity to kickstart a fitness journey. Joiners should be comfortable with their physical fitness and regularly train at least 2-3 times a week in the lead up to this adventure. Joiners should be comfortable with their physical fitness and regularly train at least 2-3 times a week in the lead up to this adventure.Joiners should be comfortable with their physical fitness and regularly train at least 2-3 times a week in the lead up to this adventure. Need we explain further? No prior experience is required. Basic skills may be taught during this adventure. The skills necessary to safely complete this adventure will be taught as a part of this experience. This adventure requires prior experience, pre-requisite skills or certifications. See below for details. We aim to strike a balance between unique local experiences and international standards of comfort and hygiene. Hostels are dorm-style accommodation used during certain legs of our trips and expeditions. They can be quite trendy with common areas, restaurants and cafes. Expect rooms to include a bed and a mattress as well as a common dining area with chairs and tables. You’ll need to bring a sleeping bag and an optional pillow. When the experience includes camping we provide the tents, sleeping mats, common dining tents, camping chairs and camping tables. The only thing you’ll need to get is a sleeping bag and an optional camping pillow. Please refer to the LHO gear list for more information specific to the trip you’re on. Mountain Lodges are usually well equipped, providing beds with duvets and pillows. They also include a common restaurant area. Some lodges require a sleeping liner.

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