Chamonix to the old La Para Mid Station

If you want to see some old mountain relics this is the perfect walk for you. Be warned that the path is narrow and can be slippery so is not ideal for toddlers or young children.

IGN3630 map is recommended

You'll see the abandoned mid station of Les Glaciers cable car, La Para which was completed in 1924 and closed in 1951. There are also fantastic views of the valley towards Les Houches and beyond.

If you aren't taking a packed lunch, there is a cheap mountain refuge close to the bottom of the walk called La Cascade du Dard.

The walk starts at the current base station of the Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix Sud. Take the path to the left of the station (as you are facing it) and through the tunnel. Once you come out of the tunnel immediately to your right is a path that leads you past the car park and along the road. Keep following signs for the Refuge La Cascades du Dard. The route leads through the forest, along the river which you eventually cross to reach the refuge. Here you can see the waterfalls which are at the side this little mountain eatery. It's definitely worth stopping here for a drink on your way back down. Prices are very reasonable compared to a lot of other mountain restaurants.

From the Cascades, follow the path through the car park and along the river into the forest. From here the path makes a fairly steep and windy ascent on a narrow path that is often damp and slippery. Therefore, although you often see toddlers on this path in the height of summer, we would advise caution and check the weather conditions.

From the refugee it should take approximately one hour to reach the La Para mid-station.