Up on the sunny shoulder of the Mont Blanc massif, the Plateau de Lognan watches over the valley of Chamonix like a quiet sentinel. From its 1 972 m perch you can see the sparkling roofs of Argentière, the glint of the Grands Montets peaks and, on a clear day, the distant silhouette of the Aiguille du Midi. The plateau is not just a viewpoint; it is the hub where the cable car from Lognan meets the snow‑packed slopes, where the fresh‑powder scent mingles with the alpine breeze, and where hikers swap stories at the small wooden chalet before heading up the trail towards the glacier. Whether you are a seasoned freerider, a family looking for a safe ski area, or a lone trekker seeking a panoramic trail, the plateau offers a blend of accessibility and wilderness that makes every visit feel like a small victory over the mountain.
The moment the cable car doors open at the base station, you are greeted by a tableau of snow conditions that can change in a heartbeat. A quick glance at the live webcam shows the current snow height – sometimes a thin crust, sometimes a deep, untouched blanket – and the weather station feeds you the latest temperature, wind gusts and avalanche risk. From there you can decide: take the gondola lift up to the upper basin for a day of freestyle in the snowpark, or lace up your boots and follow the well‑marked trail that leads to the Croix de Lognan. The plateau’s versatility is its greatest asset, and every season writes a new chapter in its story.
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Getting there: cable cars and lifts
The journey to the plateau starts with the iconic Lognan cable car, a modern lift that replaced the old funicular in 2019. The ride lasts just under ten minutes, whisking passengers from the valley floor to the Plan Joran gondola terminal perched at 1 900 m. From there, the Plan Joran gondola climbs a further 100 m, delivering you directly onto the plateau’s main platform. The engineering is seamless – the cabins glide silently, offering panoramic windows that showcase the surrounding peaks as you ascend.
Once on the plateau, the Grands Montets cable car is only a short walk away. It is the lifeline for skiers who want to access the high‑altitude ski area that stretches over 2 400 m of vertical. The lift operates from early December until late April, with occasional summer openings for early season snow trials. For those who prefer a gentle ascent, the historic télécabine de Plan‑Joran still runs on selected days, providing a nostalgic experience with its wooden cabins and creaking ropes.
Opening times and seasonal variations
- Winter (December – April): full lift operation from 08:30 to 16:30.
- Spring (May – June): limited service, focus on ski touring and snowpark events.
- Summer (July – September): gondola only, catering to hikers and mountain bikers.
Because weather in the high Alps can be fickle, the opening schedule is frequently adjusted. A quick look at the live weather feed on the official Chamonix portal will let you know whether the lifts are running or if a temporary closure is in effect due to high wind or avalanche risk.
Northern Lights at Lognan Plateau
The plateau is equipped with a state‑of‑the‑art weather station that records temperature, wind speed, humidity and barometric pressure every five minutes. This data is streamed live to the webcam page, where you can see, in real time, the current snow height on the ski runs, the quality of the surface and the overall snow conditions. Fresh powder after a night of snowfall is signalled by a bright white line on the webcam overlay, while a hard crust appears as a dark band across the runs.
During a recent storm in early February, the live feed showed a sudden increase of snow height from 30 cm to more than 80 cm within an hour. The avalanche warning level rose from 1 to 3, prompting the ski patrol to close the most exposed bowls while keeping the more sheltered runs open. This dynamic response highlights why it is essential to check the live feed before stepping onto the slopes.
Quick glance at today’s numbers
| Parameter | Current Value | Change since yesterday |
|---|---|---|
| Snow height | 45 cm | +12 cm |
| Snow quality | Fresh powder | Improved |
| Temperature | -2 °C | -1 °C |
| Wind speed | 15 km/h | Stable |
| Avalanche risk | Level 2 | No change |
All figures are updated every 15 minutes. If the wind exceeds 30 km/h, the cable car may be temporarily halted for safety.
Skiing the Grands Montets area
The Grands Montets ski area, accessed from the plateau, is renowned for its diverse terrain. From wide, well‑groomed beginner slopes that drift gently down to the village of Argentière, to steep, off‑piste couloirs that challenge even the most experienced freeriders, the mountain offers something for every style. The snowpark, opened in 2021, boasts a series of jumps, rails and boxes that attract freestyle enthusiasts from across Europe.
One of the most popular lines is the “Freerando Course” (TDG 110), a 2 km route that combines natural terrain with man‑made features, delivering an adrenaline‑pumping descent that finishes just before the main lift line. For those interested in ski mountaineering, the “Vertical Race” (TDG V) provides a rapid ascent of 900 m in under 30 minutes, testing both fitness and technique.
Key lifts serving the ski area
- Grands Montets cable car – primary artery, 2 400 m vertical gain.
- Plan Joran gondola – connects plateau to upper runs.
- Freestyle lift – dedicated to snowpark access.
Ticket prices are standardized across the Chamonix valley, but the plateau offers a special “Plateau de Lognan” pass that includes unlimited rides on the Lognan cable car and a discount on the snowpark entry. The pass is valid for a full day and can be purchased at the base station ticket office.
Hiking and trekking from Lognan
When the snow melts, the plateau transforms into a launchpad for a network of marked trails that wind through alpine meadows, rocky ridges and historic chalets. The most frequented trek is the hike to the Croix de Lognan, a short 2 km round‑trip that rewards walkers with a 300 m elevation gain and a spectacular 360° view of the Mont Blanc range. The trail is well‑signposted, with wooden markers that guide you through gently sloping meadows dotted with wildflowers.
For the more ambitious, the “Trace des Grands” (TDG) routes offer multi‑day ski‑touring experiences that combine climbing, glaciated terrain and high‑altitude navigation. The “TDG 65 – Ski Mountaineering Course” is a classic four‑hour ascent that takes you from the plateau to the high‑altitude glacier, where you can test your skills on hard snow before descending via a series of short, technical sections.
Safety tips for alpine hiking
Even on a well‑maintained trail, the weather can turn quickly. Always carry a lightweight windproof jacket, a map (or a reliable offline GPS app), and a small first‑aid kit. The plateau’s webcam helps you gauge current visibility, while the local information board at the lift base provides updates on any trail closures due to rockfall or sudden snow‑pack instability.
Practical information: rates, accessibility and special notes
Below you will find a quick reference of the most common rates and services offered at the plateau. Prices are expressed in euros and apply to the 2025 season.
| Service | Adult | Child (6‑12) |
|---|---|---|
| Lognan cable car round‑trip | 12 € | 6 € |
| Plan Joran gondola (full day) | 15 € | 8 € |
| Snowpark entry | 8 € | 4 € |
| Combined lift + snowpark ticket | 22 € | 11 € |
Note: The plateau is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility via a dedicated shuttle that runs from the base station to the main viewpoint. However, the 4×4 track is strictly forbidden for private vehicles – parking is limited to the official lot at the foot of the lift.
For those travelling with children, the “family day” package includes a guided hike, a short ski lesson on the beginner slope, and a snack break at the mountain café. The café serves hot chocolate, local cheese fondue and a selection of Alpine pastries – perfect after a morning spent in the snow.
Frequent Asked Questions
When does the Lognan cable car usually open for the season?
The main cabin service starts in early December, typically on the first weekend after the first substantial snowfall (minimum 30 cm). In 2025 the opening day was scheduled for December 5th, but the exact date can shift depending on weather conditions and avalanche assessments.
Can I ski without a lift ticket if I have a personal ski pass?
Yes, the plateau recognises the national “Alpine Pass” which allows free access to all lifts in the Chamonix valley, including the Lognan cable car and the Grands Montets lift. You’ll still need to show a valid ID to verify the pass.
Is there a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The snowpark, opened in 2021, features three jumps, a set of rail boxes and a beginner area. It is open daily from 09:30 to 15:30 when the lifts are operating, and entry is included in the combined lift‑plus‑park ticket.
What is the best time of day to catch fresh powder on the plateau?
The first two hours after a fresh snowfall are usually the magic window. The webcam will highlight a “fresh powder” tag, and the snow height meter often shows a sudden increase. Early mornings also tend to have lighter wind, preserving the quality of the snow.
Are there any restrictions for hikers with disabilities?
The plateau has a dedicated accessible route that follows the main promenade from the gondola station to the viewpoint. The path is wide, gently sloping and equipped with tactile paving. However, the more rugged high‑altitude trails, such as the TDG routes, remain unsuitable for wheelchairs.
How can I check the avalanche risk before heading out?
The avalanche risk level is posted on the live weather board at the base station and refreshed every four hours. A level 1 indicates low risk, while level 3 or higher suggests that off‑piste activity should be avoided. When the risk is high, the ski patrol will close the most exposed sections of the mountain.
Is there a place to store equipment on the plateau?
Yes, both the Lognan cable car station and the Plan Joran gondola terminal offer secure lockers for skis, snowboards and hiking gear. The fees are modest – 3 € per day for a small locker, 5 € for a larger one.
What lies ahead for Plateau de Lognan?
As climate patterns shift and visitor expectations evolve, the plateau continues to adapt. Plans are already underway for a new eco‑friendly lift system that will reduce energy consumption by 20 % while improving capacity during peak hours. In addition, the local authority is investing in year‑round activities – from guided mountain‑bike tours in summer to night‑ski sessions under LED illumination in winter – ensuring that the plateau remains a vibrant hub for all seasons.
Whether you are chasing fresh powder, testing your freestyle skills, or simply soaking in the panoramic view of the Mont Blanc massif, the Plateau de Lognan offers a uniquely balanced experience that blends adventure with tranquility. The next time you find yourself in the Chamonix valley, consider making the short ascent to the plateau; you’ll discover why this high‑altitude oasis has become a favourite among locals and travelers alike, and you may just leave with a new story to tell.
