If you are coming to Morzine for the summer the mountains here are really very special, and one of the main activities is hiking and walking. With the huge Portes du Soleil area at your feet you can pop on your hiking boots and head out on various routes and trails, each one providing beautiful mountain views. Well maintained marked trails and signposting will guide you on your way.
With spectacular views, beautiful scenery and walking routes for all abilities in the Portes du Soleil area, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Summer passes will provide you with access to the lifts meaning you can explore more of the high altitude terrain and wonderful views without the slog.
When heading off on a hike or walk it is always best to get as much information about the route as possible, head to the tourist office in town and check the weather forecast to make sure you are being as safe as possible.
Walking and hiking
In the summer months, Morzine is an Alpine mecca for walking and hiking. The Portes du Soleil offers 800 kilometres of marked trails that go across a wide variety of mountain landscapes, from ridges to forests, farms and, of course, views of Mont Blanc and the Dents du Midi. From Morzine, you can embark on short walks to lakes like the Chavanette or the Lac de Montriond, farmlands like the Alpage de Morzinette, and waterfalls like the Cascade de Ardent. Longer hikes will take you across the border into Switzerland or down the surrounding valleys.
Trail running
There are over 400 kilometres of marked running trails in the Portes du Soleil area, most of them divided into easy, medium, difficult and expert runs, as well as skyruns (with bits above 2000m on mountain ridges). In Morzine only, there are four discovery routes in the Vallée de la Manche, two short routes in the Vallée des Ardoisières, a 'vertical kilometre' in Ressachaux, three enduro trails and three routes belonging to the Trail des Hauts Forts. You can even get high thanks to the lifts running during the summer.
Winter walking
Morzine is a winter walker's paradise. With lifts giving access to the higher ground and a network of groomed trails in the winter, it's very easy to discover the resort on foot. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. You do not need any particular equipment, just a pair of sturdy boots and layers of warm clothing that you can take off or put on as necessary. A pair of walking poles will come in handy for extra balance on icy patches and for checking snow depth before you go striding forth. Top tip: buy ‘grippers’ for your walking boots to prevent slipping which you can buy from most local sport shops.
For emergency services number head to our emergency services page and make a note of the numbers before embarking on your walk or hike in Morzine.
