The Haute Route, also known as the Chamonix-Zermatt trail, is a demanding high-alpine trek that links two of the most iconic peaks in the Alps: the Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Crossing from France into Switzerland through the Pennine Alps, this route is more strenuous than its more famous neighbor, the Tour du Mont Blanc, and is better suited for experienced trekkers. The trail winds through glacier-carved valleys, across barren high passes, and along quiet alpine ridgelines. Camping is limited along much of the route, so most hikers rely on mountain huts, which often require advance booking during the busy summer months. Did you know that the Haute Route was originally established as a ski tour in the 19th century, and the hiking version still follows much of the original path carved by early alpinists?

After hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in 2020, I immediately continued to Zermatt. At that time, I was used to my pack weight and hiking days, so despite the more demanding route, I found the Haute Route very manageable. Personally, I preferred the sceneries on the Haute Route over the TMB, and at the same time I barely ran into anyone else who was also doing this trail - I mainly met day hikers. The only downside was a lack of camping opportunities without putting up tent in protected areas.