---
title: "The Col de Tricot"
type: "1day-itinerary"
variante: true
lang: "en"
distance_km: 30
elevation_plus_m: 2653
elevation_minus_m: 1977
difficulty: "Hard"
duration_days: 1
url: "https://www.tmb-guide.com/en/itineraries/col-de-tricot/"
description: "Take on the Col de Tricot variant on the Tour du Mont Blanc with tmb-guide.com. A memorable hiking experience with stunning glacier views awaits you."
---

# The Col de Tricot

The Col de Tricot variant offers a spectacular alternative with direct views of the Bionnassay glacier.

## Overview

The Col de Tricot is a popular variant of the Tour du Mont Blanc, offering a unique and memorable hiking experience. Situated between the mountains of Mont Vorassay and Aiguille de Bionnassy, the Col de Tricot is a challenge for hikers, but rewards them with stunning views of Bionnassay, its glacier, Mont Blanc and the southern tip of the Aiguilles Rouges.

## Stats

- Distance: 30 km
- Elevation gain: 2653 m
- Elevation loss: 1977 m
- Difficulty: Hard
- Duration: 1 day
- Variant route: yes

## Need to know

## What You Need to Know
The Col de Tricot variant starts at Les Houches and leads to the charming village of Les Contamines-Montjoie in France. This variant is particularly popular for the diversity of landscapes it offers, passing from valley to valley with breathtaking panoramas over Chamonix, Bionnassay, Miage and Contamines-Montjoie.

However, this variant should not be taken lightly. It is considered a challenge, requiring good physical fitness and adequate preparation. But for those ready to take on the challenge, the Col de Tricot offers a rewarding hiking experience and views that are well worth the effort.

## Practical info

- Start: Les Houches
- Finish: Refuge de la Balme
- Distance: {{30 km | 18.6 mi}}
- Elevation gain: {{2,653 m | 8,704 ft}}
- Max altitude: {{2,124 m | 6,969 ft}}

## Day-by-day itinerary

### Day 1: Les Houches - Refuge de la Balme (via the Col de Tricot)

- Distance: 30 km
- Time: 8 h
- Ascent: 2653 m
- Descent: 1977 m
- Max altitude: 2124 m
- Min altitude: 1008 m

Route of the stage from Les Houches to the Refuge de la Balme via the Col de Tricot variant.