When you set your sights on the Glacier de Lognan, you are really chasing the heart of the Argentière glacier that dominates the Chamonix valley. The trek weaves through a mountain trail that boasts an incredible natural beauty, and the route is punctuated by the famed Plan Joran gondola, a cable car that shuttles you from the village of Argentière up to the glacier’s edge. You’ll climb past a dramatic glacier viewpoint, watch the ice shift over a glacier front riddled with seracs, and finally reach the glacier view that photographers dream of.
The path is tagged as technical level moderate. Its elevation gain of roughly 800 m, a trail length close to 10 km, and a hike duration of about 5‑6 hours make it ideal for families that are family friendly but also for seasoned hikers seeking a moderate difficulty experience. Dogs are welcome on most sections, so bring your four‑legged companion if you like dogs allowed adventures. Weather conditions can change fast up there – wind speed, temperature range and sun exposure all play a role – but with the right preparation the trip feels safe and rewarding.
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Getting there: from Chamonix to the Plan Joran lift
First, hop on the train station in Chamonix and alight at the bus stop for Argentière. A short walk brings you to the parking area just opposite the mountain resort centre. From there, follow the trailhead directions to the Plan Joran lift – the gondola that ascends to 2 200 m, offering a quick shortcut to the glacier’s upper reaches.
Lift status is generally good in summer; check the lift status overview at the base station. The gondola runs every 15 minutes and drops you off near the glacier plateau where the first glacier seracs become visible. If the lift is closed, the alternative is a steep gravel road that climbs alongside the river – not ideal for a casual stroll, but still passable for experienced trekkers.
Trail overview and key data
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Starting point | Plan Joran gondola station (2 200 m) |
| Peak altitude | 2 770 m (glacier ridge) |
| Altitude range | 2 200 m – 2 770 m |
| Trail length | ≈10 km round‑trip |
| Elevation gain | ≈800 m |
| Hike duration | 5‑6 hours (incl. rest at Lognan refuge) |
| Technical level | moderate (technical level moderate) |
| Best season | late June to early October (when to go) |
Even though the high altitude may raise eyebrows, the trail is largely free of dangerous glacier crevasses. Nonetheless, a brief stop at the Lognan refuge (2 032 m) provides an easy way to rest, grab a hot meal and double‑check the risk considerations before proceeding.
Step‑by‑step route description
From the lift to the glacier front
After disembarking, head west along a marked mountain trail. The first kilometre is a gentle rocky trail that soon gives way to a steep trail of loose scree – keep your pace steady to avoid excess fatigue. Signs point toward the glacier viewpoint, a natural balcony that offers a panorama of the glacier front and its shimmering glacier ice.
Reaching the Lognan refuge
The refuge sits at a strategic trail junction where the path splits: one branch continues toward the glacier ridge, the other descends toward the valley floor. The building offers refuge accommodation, a modest restaurant and basic refuge meals. A quick coffee here is perfect for recalibrating your hiking difficulty assessment.
Exploring the glacier plateau
From Lognan, follow the stone‑lined track that winds around the glacier plateau. The terrain flattens into a wide glacier view area where you can spot the ever‑moving seracs and, on clear days, the sunlit point de vue to the east. The plateau is also a popular spot for run duration trail‑running; the flat surface makes it suitable for both hikers and runners.
Descent and optional loop
The return can be a direct walk back to the gondola, or you can extend the hike by looping around the gravel road that skirts the valley. This adds roughly 2 km and introduces a few more rocky trail sections, but rewards you with an alternate viewpoint glacier angle looking west.
Safety, risk considerations and practical tips
- Weather conditions can shift quickly; carry a wind‑proof jacket and check the forecast before you start.
- While the route has minimal glacier safety concerns, always stay on marked paths to avoid hidden glacier crevasses.
- Sun exposure is intense at high altitude – wear sunscreen with high SPF and a hat.
- In case of sudden avalanche risk or heavy rainfall, turn back to the refuge and wait for improved conditions.
Our hiking guide recommends a lightweight pack: 2 L water bottle, snack bars, a map (the trail map is available at the gondola station), a headlamp, and basic first‑aid gear. If you bring a dog, ensure it’s on a leash and that the terrain isn’t too steep for its paws.
Additional resources and local insights
Visit the usefull site Alltrails do finds tips and downloadable GPX track highlighting route interest and ease of following the trail.
For those staying in the region, the nearby mountain village of Argentière provides a charming base: shops, cafés, and easy access to the ski area in winter. The larger town of Chamonix, with its bustling train station and bus stop network, remains the main gateway for most visitors.
Frequent Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to see Glacier de Lognan?
The optimal window is from late June to early October. During this period the snow melt has receded enough to reveal clear glacier fronts, while the weather is generally stable enough for safe hiking.
Can I combine this hike with a ski day?
Yes. The ski lift to Argentière operates in winter, and you can start the trek from the base of the ski area. Keep in mind that the trail becomes a rocky trail under snow, so appropriate winter gear is essential.
Are dogs really allowed on the entire route?
Dogs are permitted on most sections, especially between the gondola and the refuge. However, on the steeper glacier ridge sections, leashing is mandatory and you should assess your dog’s fitness.
What level of fitness is required?
The hike is rated technical level moderate. You should be comfortable with a steady uphill climb of 800 m elevation gain and able to walk for 5‑6 hours, including short breaks.
How do I reach the Lognan refuge if the gondola is closed?
Walk up the gravel road that parallels the river from the parking area. It adds roughly an hour to the ascent but is clearly signposted and used regularly by locals.
Is there any risk of avalanche on this route?
In summer the avalanche risk is negligible. In winter, snow conditions can change quickly on the high‑altitude sections, so always check the local avalanche bulletin before heading out.
What equipment is essential for glacier safety?
While the trail avoids crevasse zones, a basic glacier safety kit (rope, crampons, and ice axe) is advisable for the adventurous who wish to explore the edges of the glacier plateau.
What awaits you at Glacier de Lognan?
From the gentle ascent via the Plan Joran gondola to the awe‑inspiring glacier viewpoint, the Glacier de Lognan trek offers a blend of alpine challenge and accessible comfort. Whether you’re a family looking for a family friendly summer day, a seasoned runner chasing a new run duration route, or a dog lover eager to share the mountains with a four‑legged companion, the path delivers on every front. Remember to respect the environment, stay alert to risk considerations, and let the spectacular ice formations guide your imagination.
So pack your boots, check the weather, and set off for an unforgettable encounter with one of the Alps’ most captivating glaciers. The glacier de Lognan is waiting – and you’ll leave with stories that echo across the valleys of Chamonix for years to come.
