


A beautiful hike up the mountain of La Pendant. Between alpine meadows and forests, you'll discover some of the ancient viewpoints of the Mer de Glace, and see how the glacier has retreated over the ages.
From the village of Le Lavancher, just outside Chamonix, this hike takes you to a more confidential Mer de Glace observation point than the famous Montenvers: Le Chapeau.
The chalet, which backs onto the mountain, was once next to the glacier and today bears witness to its gradual retreat. Enjoy traditional dishes at the Chalet Restaurant du Chapeau while admiring this impressive landscape.
You'll have a fine view of the Arveyron torrent (the outlet of the Mer de Glace), which is joined by the Chapeau torrent at the waterfall of the same name.
The loop continues towards Tête de Prapators, accessible by a small ladder. From the top of the 1,844-metre-high peak, take time to contemplate the view over the tongue of the Mer de Glace.
You'll then reach the Chalets de la Pendant in the heart of a beautiful alpine landscape, before starting your descent on the Grand Balcon Nord trail.
Phone : 04 50 53 00 24
Email : info@chamonix.com
Website : https://www.chamonix.com
From 01/06 to 30/09.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Mountain view
Mountain location
Not suitable for strollers
Map references :
TOP 25 IGN 3630 OT - CHAMONIX / MASSIF DU MONT-BLANC
Conseil Départemental de la Haute-Savoie - 24/11/2025
www.hautesavoiexperience.fr
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Whatever your hike, remember to pack cereal bars, plenty of water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small first-aid kit, and clothing appropriate to the season and weather forecast.
1/ From the parking lot at the end of the Route du Chapeau in Le Lavancher, take the path rising towards Le Chapeau, following the signs for "Le Chapeau" at the marker posts, until you reach the Chalet du Chapeau.
2/ At the Chalet -Buvette du Chapeau, turn back to the path rising to the right towards "Prapators par sentier escarpé".
3/ From the Tête des Prapators, take the path down through the forest towards the Montagne de la Pendant, until you reach the Grand Balcon Nord path. At this crossroads, take the path on the right towards the Chalets de la Pendants.
4/ From Chalets de la Pendant, return to the crossroads between the trail to Tête des Prapators and the Grand Balcon. Continue this time on the Grand Balcon Nord trail back down to Le Lavancher. As you descend, leave the paths on your right and follow the white markings in the form of paint marks on the trees, which will take you back to your starting point.
Yes. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the presence of herds.