The best MTB trails around Lac des Toules
4.1
(68)
590
riders
26
rides
Mountain biking around Lac des Toules offers diverse routes through dramatic mountainous terrain in Valais, Switzerland. The region is characterized by the reservoir itself, surrounded by alpine landscapes and dense forests. Glacial activity has shaped the area, contributing to its unique geological formations and providing panoramic views of the Valais Mountains and the Mont Blanc massif.
Best mountain bike trails around Lac des Toules
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Great St. Bernard Pass – Col du Grand Saint-Bernard…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
1.0
(1)
15
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(3)
20
riders
25.8km
03:07
1,010m
1,010m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
Sign up for free
1
riders
15.3km
02:10
790m
790m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(4)
17
riders
52.9km
07:47
2,280m
2,280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
3.0
(1)
1
riders
12.7km
02:06
710m
720m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This climb is something incredible: it doesn't have difficult gradients but it's long, very long, endless. You reach a point where you almost hate it: you've been cycling for well over an hour and still can't see the summit, you're running out of energy and the wind keeps whipping your face, you'd like to throw your bike away and say "Enough! I'm stopping here"... but it's only for a moment, because you're the one who chose to face it and you knew perfectly well what you were getting into; you set off again with more grit than before and tackle those last few km of road with all your remaining strength. And then you enter the tunnel, there you start to realize you've made it, you come out, follow the road that turns slightly to the left and, as if in a dream, the lake appears. You reach the top and think about how many people throughout the centuries have traveled this road: Salassi, Romans, monks, migrants, Napoleonic soldiers... you realize you are in a place where History is dense and nature is stunning, and there you can only love this hill
7
0
Hotel Italia is highly recommended
0
0
This trail is part of the Via Francigena on foot. Although you may encounter hikers, riding it is a lot of fun!
1
0
The austere buildings of the Hospice of Great St. Bernard are situated in a rocky pass through which an icy wind almost always blows, on the edge of a lake that is frozen for an average of 265 days a year and where winter lasts almost eight months. For nine centuries, the Canons Regular of the Order of St. Augustine, who settled here at the instigation of St. Bernard of Menthon, have maintained a tradition of helpfulness and hospitality. Travellers who wish to relax for a while in this peaceful place are welcome all year round.
6
0
The austere buildings of the hospice of the Great Saint Bernard are located in a rocky pass through which an icy wind almost always blows, on the edge of a lake that is frozen on average 265 days a year and where winter lasts almost eight months. For nine centuries, canons regular of the order of St. Augustine, who settled here through the help of St. Bernard of Menthon, have maintained a tradition of helpfulness and hospitality. Travelers who want to relax for a while in that peaceful place are welcome all year round.
9
1
A cute, bohemian refreshment bar, offering snacks and coffee, and an essential place to visit before, during or after a walk, there's never a bad time for coffee and cake.
2
0
Perfect alpine singletrack, winding along the steep valley side. The trail offers perfect views, which sometimes makes it very difficult to concentrate on the trail! This section is also used by hikers, so be sure to ride respectfully. Since this is an alpine meadow, expect to see a few cows wandering through the fields; wave to them as you pass.
2
0
A historic and iconic monastery perched on the border between Switzerland and Italy, it has existed as a hospice for over 1,000 years. Saint Bernard dogs, a symbol of Switzerland, were bred here for many years to rescue mountaineers in distress. The monastery is also located on the shores of the tranquil Great St. Bernard Lake, where many trails begin.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Lac des Toules?
There are over 25 mountain bike trails around Lac des Toules, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 500 times, with an average rating of 4.1 stars.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in this region?
The mountain bike trails around Lac des Toules cater to various skill levels, though the majority are considered difficult. You'll find routes with significant elevation gain and technical singletracks. For example, the Great St. Bernard Hospice and Lac des Toules Loop is a challenging 16-mile ride with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain.
Are there any easy or family-friendly mountain bike trails near Lac des Toules?
While many trails are challenging, there are a few easier options available. The region aims to offer routes for all abilities, including some that are less demanding and suitable for families. These typically feature less technical terrain and more manageable elevation changes.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while mountain biking?
The region around Lac des Toules is characterized by dramatic mountainous terrain, offering breathtaking vistas of the Valais Mountains and the Mont Blanc massif. You'll encounter emerald green mountain lakes, dense forests, and unique geological formations shaped by glaciers. The Lac des Toules Dam itself is a notable feature, and some routes offer views of the floating alpine solar park.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the mountain bike routes?
Many trails offer spectacular views. Routes leading to the Great St. Bernard Pass or the Fenêtre de Ferret provide incredible panoramas of the Mont Blanc massif. The Lac des Toules Dam is also a prominent landmark you might encounter.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails around Lac des Toules?
Many trails in the Valais region are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Ensure your dog is well-behaved, on a leash where required, and that you carry enough water for both of you, especially on longer rides.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking around Lac des Toules?
The best time for mountain biking around Lac des Toules is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and trails are free of snow. Summer offers lush landscapes, while autumn provides vibrant colors, though conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Are there options for parking when visiting the mountain bike trails?
Yes, parking is generally available in key access points such as Bourg-Saint-Pierre and near the Lac des Toules dam. It's advisable to check specific starting points for routes for the most convenient parking options.
Are there any services like bike rentals or uplift facilities in the area?
In the broader Pays du St-Bernard region, some areas like La Fouly offer services such as bike rentals. While not universally available, some locations in the wider alpine region are developing facilities like ski-lifts to transport bikes uphill, which can save riders strenuous climbs.
Where can I find accommodation or places to eat near the trails?
The villages surrounding Lac des Toules, such as Bourg-Saint-Pierre, offer various accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses. You'll also find cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after your ride, serving local Valaisan cuisine.
What makes the mountain biking experience unique in Lac des Toules?
The unique combination of dramatic alpine scenery, diverse trail offerings from technical singletracks to routes with significant elevation gain, and the presence of natural features like the reservoir and views of the Mont Blanc massif, makes mountain biking here a truly memorable experience. The area's glacial history also adds to its distinct geological character.
What is the longest mountain bike trail in the area?
One of the longer and more demanding routes is the Saint-Bernard Tour, which spans over 32 miles (52.9 km) and involves significant elevation changes, typically taking over 7 hours to complete.
Most popular routes around Lac des Toules
Most popular attractions around Lac des Toules
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
