Nestled high above the bustling town of Chamonix, the Plateau du Grépon offers a breathtaking tableau of jagged peaks, shimmering ice fields and a network of historic climbing routes that have attracted mountaineers since the late 19th century. From the moment the cable‑car drops you at the Tricot station, the air smells of granite and pine, and the distant silhouette of the Aiguille du Grépon looms like a sentinel over the Glacier des Nantillons. Whether you’re seeking a swift day hike, a challenging bivouac, or the chance to trace the steps of the first ascensionists, the plateau delivers a blend of rugged beauty and polished tradition that defines the massif du Mont‑Blanc experience.
What makes this area truly special is the seamless mix of history, geology and pure adventure. The same rock faces that tested the daring of early alpinists now host seasoned trekkers, cyclists on a vire à bicyclette and even high‑liners looking for that perfect line. Below we unpack everything you need to know – from how to get there, through the classic traversée Charmoz, to the practicalities of a night under the stars on the plan d’Aiguille. Ready to lace up your boots?
Table of Contents
Getting there and an overview of the plateau
The most common approach starts with the Mont‑Blanc Express from Chamonix to the Tricot stop (often called the “gateway” to the plateau). From there, a well‑marked trail heads westward, skirting the côte du plan before climbing steeply onto the open limestone expanse that defines the Plateau du Grépon. In total, the ascent requires about an heure d’ascension for fit hikers, though seasoned alpinists can shave this down to 45 minutes with a light pack.
Once on the plateau, you’ll be greeted by a panorama that stretches across the massif du Mont‑Blanc, with the mighty Mont Blanc glimmering on the horizon. To the north, the Glacier des Nantillons spreads like a silver blanket, while the rock‑filled ridge of Charmoz‑Grépon offers a dramatic backdrop for both casual walkers and serious climbers.
- Nearest lift: Tricot (cord‑in‑ski lift)
- Starting point for the classic route: Refuge du Grépon (2,200 m)
- Typical start time: 07:00 – 08:00 h for a full day trek
“The view from the plateau at sunrise is a reminder that the Alps are a living museum of stone and ice.”
History and the first ascensions that shaped the route
The Aiguille du Grépon earned its reputation in August 1881 when the legendary guide Ravanel accompanied climbers to achieve the première ascension via the now‑famous voie de la face. Their daring line cut through the fissure Mummery, a narrow slot that still challenges climbers today. A year later, a second party tackled the opposite side, threading the equally notorious fissure Knubel. Those early exploits cemented the area as a cornerstone of French alpinism.
Throughout the 20th century, the plateau became a training ground for high‑level alpinists and a popular spot for bivouacs, especially on the flat stretches of the plan d’Aiguille. The tradition of sleeping under the stars carries on, with many modern adventurers setting up a bivouac near the remnants of an old wooden shelter that once housed shepherds.
| Year | Achievement | Key Figure |
|---|---|---|
| 1881 | First ascent of Aiguille du Grépon via voie de la face | Guide Ravanel |
| 1882 | First ascent of the opposite flank (fissure Knubel) | John Furneaux |
| 1925 | First winter bivouac on the plan d’Aiguille | Alpine Club de France |
Main routes – the classic traversée and beyond
The heart‑beat of the plateau is the traversée du Grépon, a demanding ridge that links the Aiguille du Grépon with the neighboring Charmoz‑Grépon peak. The route can be broken down into three sections: the ascent to the summit, the narrow ridge walk, and the descent via the “topo” that skirts the glacier’s edge. Most parties allocate a full day, allowing for a relaxed pace and a midday bivouac if desired.
The classic “voie de la face”
This line follows a steep gully that opens onto a slab, leading directly to the summit of Aiguille du Grépon. It is graded PD+ (peu difficile plus) and is best attempted in July–September when the Glacier des Nantillons has receded enough to reveal stable footing. The route’s most iconic feature is the narrow fissure Mummery, which demands precise footwork and a calm head.
Bivouac on the plan d’Aiguille – a night under the stars
For those who wish to transform the day trek into a two‑day adventure, the plan d’Aiguille offers a perfect flat spot for a camp. A simple bivouac sack, warm layers and a headlamp are all you need. The altitude (2,300 m) guarantees spectacular sunrise views over the Glacier des Nantillons and the distant silhouette of the statue de Notre‑Dame, a small bronze figure perched on a crag near the summit.
- Recommended gear: four‑season sleeping bag, insulated mat, lightweight stove.
- Leave no trace: pack out all waste.
- Safety tip: set up before dusk; winds can be fierce on the plateau.
Alpine environment – glaciers, cascades and wildlife
The Glacier des Nantillons is the plateau’s most dynamic ice body, feeding several melt‑water streams that carve the cascades du Dard just below the ridge. During late spring, the waterfalls roar with a force that rivals any mountain torrent in the valley, creating a misty veil that adds a magical touch to the ascent.
Geologically, the plateau rests on a massive limestone slab, part of the larger massif du Mont‑Blanc formation. This composition makes the rock especially solid, ideal for the classic cracks like fissure Knubel that attract sport climbers during the summer months. Wildlife is abundant as well: you’ll often spot chamois grazing on the grassy patches, while marmots pop up to say “hello” from their burrows.
Practical tips – timing, gear, safety and local services
Choosing the right heure d’ascension is crucial. The best window runs from early June (when the snow has melted enough) to late September (before the first snows). Mid‑day climbs in July are ideal for avoiding the lingering winter chill, while late‑August offers the warmest temperatures for bivouac comfort.
Gear-wise, a modern alpinist should pack:
- Sturdy hiking boots with crampon compatibility.
- Helmet (mandatory on the Aiguille du Grépon routes).
- Lightweight rope (30 m) and a set of quickdraws for the fissure Mummery and fissure Knubel.
- Layered clothing: base, insulating, wind‑proof shell.
Safety advice from the guide Ravanel association emphasizes checking the glacier’s condition each morning; crevasses can open suddenly after heavy rain. Also, remember that the plateau’s exposure makes weather changes rapid – a clear sky can switch to a storm in minutes.
Local services are plentiful: the Refuge du Grépon offers meals and the possibility to book a night in a dormitory, while the Chamonix tourist office provides updated trail maps and a free “mountain weather” app.
Frequent asked questions
What is the difficulty level of the traversée du Grépon?
The full ridge traverse is graded AD (assez difficile). It demands good fitness, basic climbing skills and the ability to move on exposed sections. Beginners are encouraged to attempt only the lower parts or hire a local guide.
Can I cycle up to the plateau using a bike?
Yes, the “vire à bicyclette” route starts from the Tricot lift station and follows a rough gravel track that reaches the edge of the plateau. It is a challenging ride, suitable for mountain bikes with sturdy tires and a low gear range.
Is there a way to see the statue de Notre‑Dame without climbing?
The small bronze statue perched near the summit of the Aiguille du Grépon can be admired from the lower saddle on the plan d’Aiguille. A short detour from the main trail provides a clear view without requiring a technical ascent.
When is the best time to photograph the cascades du Dard?
Late June to early July offers the most impressive water flow, as the glacier melt is at its peak. Early morning light creates a golden glow that reflects beautifully off the spray.
Do I need a permit for bivouacking on the plateau?
No formal permit is required, but the area is subject to the French “Leave No Trace” regulations. Campers must stay in designated flat spots and remove all waste.
Looking ahead: why the plateau remains a magnet for adventurers
From its legendary Aiguille du Grépon summit to the serene ice of the Glacier des Nantillons, the Plateau du Grépon continues to attract a diverse crowd: alpinists chasing historic routes, families enjoying a day hike, and cyclists seeking the ultimate mountain ride. Its blend of natural splendor, rich history and well‑maintained infrastructure ensures that each visit feels fresh, whether you’re tracing the steps of the guide Ravanel or simply pausing to watch the cascades du Dard tumble into the valley below. So pack your boots, check the weather, and let the plateau’s timeless allure guide your next Alpine adventure.
