La Vormaine
OPEN
Les Bossons
CLOSED
Bossons Glacier Chairlift
In Chamonix, the Mont Blanc glacier within reach.
The Bossons Glacier: A Giant of the Alps, a Legend at Your Feet
A jewel of the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley, the Bossons Glacier has fascinated mountaineers and visitors for centuries. With a vertical drop of 3,630 metres, it is the highest icefall in the Alps — a breathtaking natural spectacle. Its steep gradient also makes it the fastest-moving glacier: it advances by 1 to 1.5 metres per day, like a river of ice in perpetual motion. Born from the eternal snows of Mont Blanc (4,810 m), Mont Maudit (4,445 m), and Mont Blanc du Tacul (4,248 m), it embodies the power and wild beauty of the high mountains.
A Place Steeped in History
In 1786, the Bossons Glacier entered legend: it was along this route that Jacques Balmat and Dr. Paccard made the first ascent of Mont Blanc, making history in mountaineering.
Closer to home, in 1960, the Bossons chairlift (1,102 metres long) was inaugurated, opening this legendary site to the general public. The lift was built at the initiative of ski champion James Couttet, a prominent local figure in the valley. Two years later, in 1962, it hosted the World Ski Championships — a crowning achievement for Chamonix, with local skier Charles Bozon winning the gold medal in the slalom.
Our Commitment:
Sharing the Magic of Bossons
Since 1957, the Société d’Exploitation Touristique de la Vormaine has combined expertise and passion to manage exceptional sites throughout the Chamonix Valley. Since 2008, with the same commitment and professionalism, it has also operated the Bossons Glacier chairlift, owned by the Municipality, in addition to the Vormaine ski area.
Our qualified, attentive, and meticulous team does everything possible to ensure you have a safe and memorable experience.
Because the Bossons Glacier is much more than a site: it is a heritage to experience, an adventure to share, and an emotion to pass on to future generations.
Ready to write your own page of history?
Opening Hours
CHAIRLIFT OPEN FROM JUNE 13, 2026 TO SEPTEMBER 13, 2026
First ascent: 8:30 a.m.
Last ascent: 5:30 p.m.
Last descent: 6:00 p.m.
Prices
The chairlift is not permitted for children under 6 months old.
Getting Here
By Train
A Scenic Arrival!
The Bossons SNCF railway station is just 700 metres from the chairlift. A pleasant walk to start your mountain adventure!
By Bus
Free and Effortless!
A bus stop is located just 30 metres from the chairlift departure point and is served by Route 2. This route is easily accessible from across the valley and is free with a valid Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley lift pass.
GOOD TO KNOW:
An eco-friendly and convenient way to enjoy the mountains without worrying about parking.
By Car
Parking Available
Free parking is available 30 metres uphill from the chairlift departure point. Ideal for parking your vehicle with peace of mind and starting your day stress-free.
Parking is permitted for up to 24 hours for light vehicles. Motorhomes and converted vans are not permitted.
We look forward to welcoming you
for an unforgettable summer!







