Hikes from Val Thorens : The Most Beautiful Routes for Exploring the Mountains in Summer
In the summer, Val Thorens the atmosphere changes completely. The ski runs give way to hiking trails, the ski lifts become starting points for ascents to the peaks, and the resort takes on a calmer pace, focused on nature and the great outdoors. At an altitude of over 2,300 meters, the hikes around Val Thorens offer a chance to explore a wide variety of landscapes: high-altitude lakes, alpine pastures, rocky vistas, wilder valleys, and trails accessible directly from the resort.
Staying in Val Thorens : an ideal starting point for hiking
One of the advantages of a summer vacation in Val Thorens is that you can easily access the trails without having to make multiple car trips.
The Montagnettes resorts allow guests to take full advantage of this proximity to the mountains. From the resort’s apartments and chalets, you can quickly reach hiking trails, ski lifts open in the summer, or paths that wind through the Belleville Valley.
In the morning, it often takes just a few minutes to leave the resort behind and head back to the high-altitude trails.
Among the most popular routes around Val Thorens, Lake Lou remains a sure bet.
This easy hike allows you to gradually explore the valley’s landscapes: small streams, open terrain, alpine pastures, and a mountain hut nestled by the water.
The trail is enjoyable even for families, with a moderate elevation gain and several options for extending or shortening the hike depending on each person's fitness level.
Once they arrive at the lake, many people simply choose to stop and enjoy the tranquility and the view before heading back to the resort at a leisurely pace.
For a shorter outing or your first hike at high altitude, the trails at La Montagnette are particularly pleasant.
The trail starts right at Val Thorens and offers an easy walk with little elevation gain, while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks.
It's often a good option when you first arrive at the resort, for a stroll at the end of the day, or for an outing with the kids.
The atmosphere there is calmer, with a real sense of space from the very first few meters.
For hikers looking to set out on a full-day hike, the trail to the Péclet-Polset mountain hut offers a different perspective on the mountains.
The trail gradually gains elevation and winds through more rocky landscapes, offering a stronger sense of isolation.
Along the way, you may occasionally come across marmots or ibex, which are particularly easy to spot early in the morning or late in the day.
It's a more challenging hike, but also one of the most immersive ones around Val Thorens.
In the summer, several ski lifts remain open, providing quick access to high-altitude trails.
This allows you to enjoy breathtaking views without having to hike the entire elevation gain on foot. As a result, some hikes become very accessible, even for occasional hikers.
It's also a good way to adjust your daily routine based on the weather or how you're feeling at the moment.
How to Prepare for a High-Altitude Hike
Even in the summer, hiking in the mountains requires some preparation.
In Val Thorens, temperatures can change rapidly throughout the day. Mornings are often cool, even when the weather is beautiful, and the sun can be particularly strong at high altitudes.
Before you leave, it's best to plan ahead:
- a windbreaker
- good walking shoes
- enough water
- sunglasses and sunscreen
- a warmer layer for breaks or the trip home
The goal isn't to overload your bag, but to be well-equipped enough to enjoy the day in comfort.
Yes, there are several accessible trails around the resort, including the Montagnette trails and the Lac du Lou trail.
Lake Lou remains one of the most popular hiking destinations thanks to its accessible and varied scenery.
No, some trails are suitable for casual hikers and families.
Yes, some ski lifts operate in the summer to make it easier to access the high-altitude trails.
Appropriate footwear, a windbreaker, water, and sunscreen are still essential, even in the middle of summer.