Rocher des Mottets
→ 6km
↑ ~530m
♦ Medium
Θ CW
And now for something completely different!
The Rocher des Mottets is an entry level rock climb hidden away in the forest beneath the Montenvers station. Used for teaching, the route is graded 3b/5.4 and is primarily slab climbing on perfect rock.
Runners should be comfortable being climbers for this route because while it is very easy, a slip is going to result in a bad situation. Many runners regularly use the route as a quick, fun hit for a short run that also provides some scrambling. It's ideal training for bigger ridge scrambles or any rocky terrain.
The route literally follows a line of bolts up slabs and steps with short sections of forest trail between pitches. After the climbing, the trail leads to the La Buvette des Mottets, a small restaurant nestled into the woods near viewpoints to the lower end of the Mer de Glace.
After a sit at La Buvette des Mottets, follow a dirt road and trail back to the valley to close the loop. If you want to keep going, follow the river trail back Chamonix.
Alternatively, it is possible to continue on to the Montenvers station and join the Grand Balcon Nord Run.
Detailed GPX Track
Download the GPX File and import the route into your phone's mapping app and/or your watch for the full turn-by turn.
Your purchase supports the team at ALPSinsight to keep these runs coming.
TIPS
-
Know what your climbing level is and don't try this if you are not 100% sure of your limits.
-
Go early to stay ahead of climbing courses that may be lined up on the route.
-
The most convenient access is the Les Praz bus stop and a short jog through the forest trails of Le Bois.
Guided and self-guided trips. Come run with us.
Yes, that is a bolt anchor you'll cruise by
