The best running trails around Lac de Champex

There are over a dozen dedicated running routes around Lac de Champex, offering a wide range of experiences. While many are challenging, there is also a popular moderate loop around the lake itself.

The terrain around Lac de Champex is quite varied. You'll find mostly paved paths around the lake, suitable for all skill levels. However, many routes venture into demanding mountain ascents through alpine meadows and forests, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The region also features historical irrigation channels known as 'bisses' which offer mostly easy and flat sections.

Yes, the most popular and accessible option is the approximately 3.2-mile (5.1 km) loop around the lake itself, known as Lake Champex – Champex-Lac Lake loop from Champex-Lac. This moderate route offers picturesque views and is suitable for most joggers.

Jogging around Lac de Champex offers stunning views of the Mont Blanc Massif and the Valais Alps. You can also explore the serene mountain lake itself, dense forests, and expansive alpine meadows. Other points of interest include the Flore-Alpe Botanical Garden with its diverse plant species, and the historical Bisse de Champex-Lac irrigation channels.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. A popular option is the Lake Champex – Champex-Lac Lake loop from Champex-Lac. For a more challenging experience, the Cabane du Trient from Champex — trail running loop offers demanding ascents and alpine scenery.

The running routes in Lac de Champex are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Runners often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the variety of terrain, and the clear mountain lake views.

Absolutely. Lac de Champex is a significant destination for trail running. Routes like the Cabane du Trient from Champex — trail running loop are considered difficult, featuring demanding mountain ascents and requiring good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and alpine experience. The region is also part of the famous Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc.

For families, the relatively flat and mostly paved sections around Lac de Champex are ideal. The Lake Champex – Champex-Lac Lake loop from Champex-Lac is a great choice, offering beautiful views and a manageable distance for a family outing.

The summer months are generally the best time for jogging in Lac de Champex, offering pleasant temperatures and full access to all trails. The region's alpine meadows and forests are vibrant, and the lake is inviting. While winter offers snow activities, many trails may be covered, requiring different gear like snowshoes.

Yes, the village of Champex-Lac, situated right by the lake, offers various cafes and restaurants where you can refuel and relax after your run. You'll find options ranging from quick snacks to full meals.

Yes, parking facilities are available in and around the village of Champex-Lac, making it convenient to access the various running trails that start from the lakeside area.

Lac de Champex is accessible by public transport, typically by bus services connecting from nearby train stations in the Valais canton. This allows visitors to reach the starting points of the trails without a car.