With so many Valais trails being good quality, going on a decent run is actually pretty easy to do. Pick your trail and go. You'll most likely have a great time.

But if you're after something better than great, something superb, brilliant, or as every American says, AMAZING, then you need a few more ingredients for the day to go next level great. The Grand Saint Bernard's Lacs de Fenêtre loop has some special ingredients.

It all starts at the Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard, which is absolutely worthy of a walk through, or better yet, an overnight either in the dorm or the auberge across the street. You'll want to be sure you spot the monks, the dogs (don't forget the Saint Bernards, and yes, they are around), and sip one of the locally brewed craft beers or Valais juices. It's a fun spot, don't blow-off a stop.

We ran this route counter clockwise but in the end decided it runs equally as well in either direction. Take your pick. If you prefer the steep climb to Point de Drône straight from the car, clockwise is your thing, otherwise you're doing a steep climb, and descent, at the end of the day.

The rest of the run is a mix of scenic lakes, views of the Grand Combin, the Grandes Jorasses, and some of the Chamonix skyline. You'll even get to admire the views, without slowing down too much, thanks to there being not much to snag your toes on. It all adds up to AMAZING!

While you are in the Grand Saint Bernard area, be sure to also hit the Valsorey Vélan Run above Bourg St. Pierre.