How to Hike to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes

The Vallon de la Lance Lakes are among the most breathtaking alpine destinations in the French Alps, nestled high above the village of Les Gets in the Haute-Savoie region. These glacially carved turquoise lakesLac de la Lance Suprieur, Lac de la Lance Infrieur, and the smaller Lac des Caurreslie within a protected natural area, offering hikers unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows, and pristine mountain water. Unlike more commercialized trails, the Vallon de la Lance route remains relatively untouched, preserving its wild character and making it a favorite among experienced trekkers and nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and authenticity.

Reaching these lakes requires careful planning, physical preparation, and respect for alpine environments. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the entire journeyfrom trailhead selection to summit returnalong with essential safety tips, gear recommendations, and real-world insights from seasoned hikers. Whether youre a seasoned mountaineer or a determined beginner with a passion for high-altitude landscapes, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to safely and successfully complete the hike to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Starting Point: Les Gets or Le Grand-Bornand

The most common and recommended trailhead for the Vallon de la Lance Lakes is located in the village of Les Gets, a charming alpine resort in the Portes du Soleil ski area. From Les Gets, the trail ascends gradually through forested slopes before opening into high alpine terrain. An alternative, more challenging route begins in Le Grand-Bornand, but this adds significant elevation gain and is recommended only for advanced hikers with acclimatization.

To reach the Les Gets trailhead, drive or take public transport to the Chavannes parking area, located just north of the village center. GPS coordinates: 46.2422 N, 6.6918 E. There is a small, free parking lot here, but it fills quickly during summer weekends. Arrive before 8:00 AM to secure a spot. If parking is full, consider walking the 1.2 km from the main village squarethis adds minimal distance but avoids the hassle of circling for parking.

2. Begin the Ascent: Trailhead to Col des Montets

From the Chavannes parking lot, locate the clearly marked trailhead sign for Vallon de la Lance or Lacs de la Lance. The initial path is a wide, well-maintained forest track that winds gently uphill through mixed coniferous and deciduous trees. This section, approximately 1.8 km long, gains about 180 meters in elevation and takes 3040 minutes at a steady pace.

Look for intermittent wooden trail markers painted with white and red stripesthese are the official markings of the French Alpine Club (CAF). Along the way, youll pass several picnic benches and interpretive signs detailing local flora, including rare alpine gentians and edelweiss. Take your time here; the forest provides shade and a chance to acclimate to the altitude.

At the 1.8 km mark, the trail meets a junction near a small stone chapel. Turn left toward Col des Montets (not the right fork toward the ski lifts). The path narrows slightly and becomes rockier. From here, the real climb begins. Youll ascend through open meadows dotted with wildflowers in June and July. Keep your eyes peeled for marmotsthey often sunbathe near rocky outcrops.

3. Cross the Col des Montets: The High Pass

The Col des Montets (elevation 2,162 meters) is the critical high point of the hike and the gateway to the Vallon de la Lance basin. The final 500 meters to the col involve a steep, exposed scramble over loose scree. Use trekking poles for stability, and step deliberatelyslipping here can lead to injury.

At the col, youll be rewarded with your first panoramic view of the lakes below. The terrain drops sharply on the northern side into a deep, U-shaped valley. The two main lakesLac de la Lance Infrieur (lower) and Lac de la Lance Suprieur (upper)lie directly ahead, separated by a narrow ridge. The sky here is often crystal clear, and wind can be strong. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below 10C, so dont remove your windproof layer.

Take a 1015 minute break here. Hydrate, eat a small snack, and check your compass or GPS. The trail from the col to the lakes is not always clearly marked, so navigation becomes more critical.

4. Descend to Lac de la Lance Infrieur

From the col, follow the faint but visible path descending northeast. The descent is steep and rockyapproximately 300 meters of elevation loss over 600 meters of trail. Use your poles to control your descent and avoid knee strain. Watch for cairns (rock piles) placed by previous hikers; theyre your primary navigation aid in this section.

After 1520 minutes of descent, youll reach the shores of Lac de la Lance Infrieur. This lake, at 1,920 meters, is the largest and most accessible. Its water is a vivid turquoise, reflecting the surrounding peaks of Mont Blanc and the Dents du Midi. The shoreline is rocky and unevenwear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support.

Many hikers stop here for lunch. There is no designated picnic area, but flat stones along the northern shore make excellent seating. Be sure to pack out all trasheven organic waste. This is a protected zone, and littering is strictly prohibited.

5. Ascend to Lac de la Lance Suprieur

For those seeking the full experience, continue east from Lac de la Lance Infrieur along the ridge that separates the two lakes. The path is narrow and exposed, with a steep drop on the left. This section requires a head for heights and steady footing. The climb to Lac de la Lance Suprieur (elevation 2,035 meters) is approximately 400 meters in elevation gain over 800 meters of trail and takes 2535 minutes.

The upper lake is smaller, more secluded, and often still partially frozen into early July. Its waters are even clearer than the lower lake, and the surrounding cliffs are home to nesting alpine choughs. This is the most photogenic spot on the entire route. Bring your camerabut keep it secure. The wind here is fierce.

6. Optional Detour: Lac des Caurres

For experienced hikers with extra time and energy, a third lakeLac des Caurreslies 45 minutes northeast of Lac de la Lance Suprieur. This remote, peat-stained lake is surrounded by boulder fields and rarely visited. The trail is poorly marked and requires off-trail navigation. Only attempt this detour if you have a topographic map, GPS with offline capabilities, and solid route-finding skills. Most hikers do not include this in their itinerary.

7. Return Journey: The Same Way Back

There is no loop trail to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes. The only safe and sustainable return route is the way you came. Begin your descent from Lac de la Lance Infrieur, retracing your steps to the Col des Montets, then back to Chavannes.

On the return, fatigue can set in. Pay extra attention to footing on the scree slope at the col. Descend slowly. If youre feeling dizzy, nauseous, or unusually fatigued, stop immediately. Altitude sickness can occur even at 2,000 meters, especially if youve ascended rapidly from lower elevations.

Plan for a total hike duration of 68 hours, including breaks. Allow more time if youre photographing, resting, or exploring the lakes thoroughly.

Best Practices

1. Acclimatize Before You Go

If youre coming from sea level or a low-altitude city, spend at least one night in Les Gets (1,100 meters) before attempting the hike. This allows your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the night before. Drink 23 liters of water daily in the 24 hours leading up to your hike.

2. Timing Is Everything

The best time to hike to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes is from mid-June to mid-September. Snow lingers on the trail until late June, and early-season hikers may encounter ice patches on the col. By late August, wildflowers begin to fade, but the skies are clearest and the crowds thinnest.

Start your hike before 7:30 AM. This ensures you reach the col before afternoon thunderstorms typically develop in the Alps. Mountain weather changes rapidlyclouds can roll in within minutes. If you see dark cumulonimbus clouds forming over Mont Blanc, turn back immediately.

3. Pack the Ten Essentials

Even on a short alpine hike, you must carry the Ten Essentials:

• Navigation: Topographic map (IGN 3530OT) and compass; GPS device with offline maps
• Headlamp: With extra batteriesyour hike may take longer than expected
• Sun protection: UV-blocking sunglasses, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), wide-brimmed hat
• First aid kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, antihistamines, and personal medications
• Knife or multi-tool: For emergency repairs or food prep
• Fire starter: Waterproof matches or lighter
• Shelter: Lightweight emergency bivy or space blanket
• Extra food: High-calorie snacks (nuts, energy bars, dried fruit)
• Extra water: Minimum 2 liters; bring a filter or purification tablets
• Extra clothing: Insulating layer, waterproof shell, gloveseven in summer

4. Leave No Trace

The Vallon de la Lance is part of the Parc Naturel Rgional du Haut-Jura and protected under French environmental law. Follow these principles strictly:

• Do not pick flowers, disturb wildlife, or collect rocks or moss.
• Use established trails onlycreating new paths accelerates erosion.
• Carry out all waste, including food scraps and toilet paper.
• Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 15 cm deep and 60 meters from water sources if you must relieve yourself.
• Keep noise levels low. This is a sanctuary for wildlife and other hikers seeking peace.

5. Group Safety and Communication

Never hike alone. Even experienced trekkers should carry a partner. Inform someone not on the hike of your planned route and expected return time. If youre carrying a satellite messenger (e.g., Garmin inReach), activate it before leaving the trailhead.

Stay within sight of your group at all times, especially on exposed ridges. If someone falls or becomes injured, do not attempt a solo rescue. Secure the scene, call for help using your emergency device, and stay with the injured person.

6. Respect Local Regulations

Domestic animals are prohibited on the trail beyond Les Gets. Dogs, even on leashes, disturb native wildlife and can trigger aggressive behavior in mountain goats and marmots. Additionally, drones are banned in the entire Vallon de la Lance basin without special authorization from the French Ministry of Environment.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Maps and Apps

Reliable navigation is non-negotiable. Here are the best tools for this hike:

• IGN Top 25 Map 3530OT Les Gets Le Grand-Bornand The official French topographic map. Available as a printed version or in the IGN Rando app.
• Alpine Club App (Club Alpin Franais) Provides trail conditions, recent reports, and user-submitted photos.
• Komoot Download the Vallon de la Lance Lakes route (user-generated by experienced hikers). Works offline.
• Google Earth Pro Use the 3D terrain feature to visualize the route before departure.

2. Weather Forecasting Resources

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Use these trusted sources:

• Mto-France Official French meteorological service. Check the Haute-Savoie forecast daily.
• Mountain Forecast (mountain-forecast.com) Offers detailed elevation-specific forecasts for Col des Montets and the lakes.
• Windy.com Visual wind, precipitation, and cloud layer models. Ideal for planning departure times.

3. Gear Recommendations

Heres a curated list of gear that enhances safety and comfort:

• Footwear: Salomon Quest 4D GTX or La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX ankle support and waterproofing are essential.
• Trekking poles: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork lightweight, shock-absorbing, and collapsible.
• Backpack: Deuter Aircontact Lite 30+5 35-liter capacity with hydration sleeve and rain cover.
• Hydration: Platypus SoftBottle 2L + SteriPEN Ultra for purifying water from streams (only if boiling is not possible).
• Clothing: Merino wool base layer, Patagonia Nano Puff jacket, Arcteryx Beta LT shell.
• Emergency: Garmin inReach Mini 2 two-way satellite messaging with SOS.

4. Local Guides and Tours

If youre unfamiliar with alpine terrain or want to maximize your experience, consider hiring a certified mountain guide through the cole Nationale de Ski et dAlpinisme (ENSA) or Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix. Guided group hikes to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes are offered from late June to September and include transport, lunch, and safety briefings. While not necessary for experienced hikers, guides provide invaluable insights into local ecology and history.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah and Mark First-Time Alpine Hikers

Sarah and Mark, both 32, live in Lyon and had never hiked above 1,500 meters. They planned their trip for mid-July after researching online and reading multiple blogs. They started at 7:00 AM, carried the Ten Essentials, and used Komoot for navigation.

They reached Lac de la Lance Infrieur by 11:30 AM and spent two hours photographing and eating lunch. They decided not to climb to the upper lake due to strong winds and a fellow hikers warning about loose rocks. On the descent, they encountered a group of French hikers who shared water and advised them to take the trail slowly on the scree.

They completed the hike in 7 hours and returned to their car exhausted but exhilarated. We didnt know what to expect, Sarah said. But the silence up therejust the wind and the waterit felt like another world.

Example 2: Jean-Luc Seasoned Alpine Mountaineer

Jean-Luc, 58, has summited Mont Blanc six times. He hiked the Vallon de la Lance Lakes route in early September with his son. He carried a lightweight DSLR, a small notebook for sketching, and a thermos of herbal tea.

He reached the upper lake and stayed for nearly an hour, observing a family of ibex on the far ridge. He noted the changing light on the water and recorded the exact time of day in his journal. This is where the Alps speak, he wrote. Not with words, but with stillness.

Jean-Luc returned to the trailhead at 5:15 PM, having taken 8.5 hours. He emphasized the importance of slowing down: Speed doesnt bring you closer to the mountains. Presence does.

Example 3: The Unexpected Storm

In August 2022, a group of four hikers from Geneva began their ascent at 9:00 AM. By 1:00 PM, they were at the col when a sudden thunderstorm rolled in. Lightning struck a nearby ridge, and hail began to fall.

One hiker, inexperienced in alpine weather, panicked and attempted to descend alone. The others stayed together, used their emergency blankets, and waited under a rock overhang for 45 minutes until the storm passed. They radioed for help using a Garmin inReach and were met by a local rescue team at the trailhead.

Post-hike interviews revealed they had ignored the Mto-France forecast warning of afternoon storms. Their story is now used in local guide training programs as a cautionary tale.

FAQs

Is the Vallon de la Lance Lakes hike suitable for beginners?

The hike is moderately challenging and best suited for those with prior hiking experience at elevation. Beginners with strong fitness and proper preparation can complete it, but they should not attempt it without proper gear, navigation tools, and a companion. The trail includes steep, rocky sections and exposure to altitude.

How long does the hike take?

Most hikers take 68 hours round-trip, including breaks. Fast hikers may complete it in 5 hours, but this leaves little room for safety or enjoyment. Allow more time if you plan to swim, photograph, or explore the upper lake.

Can I swim in the lakes?

Yes, but the water is extremely cold year-roundeven in August, temperatures hover near 810C. Swimming is not recommended for extended periods due to risk of hypothermia. Many hikers dip their feet or splash their faces to cool down.

Are there restrooms or water sources on the trail?

No. There are no facilities between Les Gets and the lakes. Bring all water you need, or use a filtration system to treat water from mountain streams. Avoid drinking directly from the lakesthey are protected and may contain microorganisms.

Do I need a permit to hike here?

No permit is required. The trail is open to the public. However, you must follow French environmental regulations and Leave No Trace principles.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are prohibited on the trail beyond the village of Les Gets to protect wildlife and preserve the natural integrity of the valley.

Whats the best season for photography?

Mid-July to early August offers the most vibrant wildflowers, clear skies, and full lake colors. Sunrise from the col provides dramatic backlighting on the lakes. Sunset from Lac de la Lance Suprieur casts golden hues on Mont Blancs summit.

Is this hike safe for children?

Children aged 10 and older with strong stamina and hiking experience can manage the trail with adult supervision. The rocky sections and exposure to heights make it unsuitable for younger children or those afraid of heights.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not continue wandering. Use your GPS or map to reorient. If you cannot determine your location, stay put and activate your emergency beacon. Most rescue teams in the French Alps are highly trained and respond quickly to satellite signals.

Can I camp near the lakes?

No. Wild camping is strictly prohibited in the Vallon de la Lance basin. The nearest permitted camping is in Les Gets or Le Grand-Bornand. Overnight stays on the trail are not allowed.

Conclusion

Hiking to the Vallon de la Lance Lakes is more than a physical journeyits a pilgrimage into the heart of the French Alps. The trail rewards patience, preparation, and reverence for nature. From the quiet hum of the forest to the wind-swept silence of the high lakes, each step carries you deeper into a landscape shaped by ice, time, and elemental forces.

This guide has provided you with the essential knowledge to navigate the route safely and respectfully. But no tutorial can replace the quiet wisdom gained on the trailthe way the light shifts across the water at noon, the scent of alpine herbs after rain, the distant cry of an eagle echoing off the cliffs. These are the moments that stay with you long after your boots are clean and your map is tucked away.

Respect the mountains. They do not owe you a view. They offer it only to those who come prepared, humble, and mindful. Lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and step onto the path with intention. The Vallon de la Lance Lakes are waitingnot to be conquered, but to be witnessed.