Le Petit Montrond from La Faucille

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions.

The Petit Montrond hike is a must-do, offering breathtaking views considered to be among the most beautiful in Europe. The trail climbs through woodland and open areas where you will find picnic tables.

From the Col de la Faucille, a staircase with 419 steps leads to the summit of Petit Montrond at 1,540 metres, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lake Geneva plain, the Alps and Mont Blanc. The descent is via the same route, offering a different perspective on the surrounding landscape.

Details

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  • Walking
    Activity: Walking
  • ↔
    Distance: 4.01 km
  • ◔
    Average duration: 1h 45 
  • ▲
    Difficulty: Easy

  • ⚐
    Back to start: Yes
  • ↗
    Ascent: + 217 m
  • ↘
    Descent: - 217 m

  • ▲
    Highest point: 1,534 m
  • ▼
    Lowest point: 1,317 m

Photos

Description of the walk

(S/E) From the heart of the Col de la Faucille, at the foot of the ski lift, take the white path, which passes under the telecombi and then under the toboggan run. A few metres after passing under the toboggan run, a small path leads into the edge of the forest and climbs up a staircase.

(1) At this point, you will see a sign for Petit Montrond. Continue along the path climbing opposite until you reach a road.

(2) Cross the road twice. After the last set of steps, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view. There is a wooden frame where you can take a photo with Mont Blanc in the background.

(3) Climb a few more metres and you will reach the summit at an altitude of 1,540 metres.

(4) The return journey is along the same route (S/E).

Waypoints

  1. S/E : km 0 - alt. 1,317 m - Télécombi du Montrond
  2. 1 : km 0.24 - alt. 1,332 m - Forest edge
  3. 2 : km 1.32 - alt. 1,471 m - Route
  4. 3 : km 1.83 - alt. 1,525 m - Fenêtre du Mont Blanc
  5. 4 : km 2 - alt. 1,534 m - Petit Montrond
  6. S/E : km 4 - alt. 1,317 m - Télécombi du Montrond

Notes

Open from 1 April to 30 November - subject to snow conditions

Before you go
- Check the general and local weather forecast to ensure there is no precipitation.
- Find out about the approach walk, the height of the route, the walking time, and possible escape routes (IGN map, GPS, guidebook, etc.).
- Assess the possible risks by consulting mountain professionals, refuges, and lodges.
- Inform a friend or family member of your plans and contact them again in case of any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with each person's telephone number, vehicle(s), parking.
- Avoid setting off alone. Use equipment that is suitable for the activity, properly adjusted and in good condition, including a head torch, a complete first aid kit, a survival blanket, etc.
- In case of an emergency, call 112 (European emergency number).

Additional advice and recommendations.
To find out more about our destination, visit our website: Pays de Gex Tourisme.

This route passes through a protected area, which may be subject to special regulations:

Worth a visit

The Col de la Faucille is a fun place where you can enjoy a wide range of winter and summer activities.
There are several shops, souvenir shops, restaurants, ski and mountain bike schools, and more.

Reviews and comments

5 / 5
Based on 1 review

Reliability of the description
5 / 5
Ease of following the route
5 / 5
Route interest
5 / 5
User 15066393

Overall rating : 5 / 5

Date of your route : Aug 25, 2025
Reliability of the description : ★★★★★ Very good
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : Yes

This is a short hike with a significant elevation gain. Fortunately, for those who are less sure-footed, there are steps (although walking sticks may be useful). The view from the top is superb, and the scenery during the ascent and descent is also well worth the effort.

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