A family day at Montenvers from Chamonix

The little red train takes about twenty minutes to climb from Chamonix to Montenvers station at 1,913 metres. Grandparents can spend time looking out over the Mer de Glace while others in the family head down towards the ice cave. When planning the outing, decide what everyone would like to do after stepping off the train.

One train ride, two different visits

The rack railway leaves from 35 place de la Mer de Glace in Chamonix. A return train ticket suits anyone heading up for the viewpoint. The cave visit also involves a gondola ride, cave admission and a metal staircase with around 180 steps to climb again on the way back. Factor that return climb into the day when deciding who wants to go down.

Agree to meet again at the upper railway station. Those staying above can spend time looking at the glacier tongue and the lines of the moraines without waiting at the foot of the stairs. If a member of the family uses a wheelchair, call the operator before travelling. Accompanied access to the train depends on conditions and the wheelchair being used. The gondola to the cave is inaccessible to wheelchairs.

Two dates for winter 2026–27

The train is scheduled to resume on 5 December. The gondola and ice cave are due to reopen on 19 December. Between those dates, plan around the train and the view from Montenvers. For the cave, choose a day after its scheduled reopening and check its status that morning.

Leave time for the train back

Look up the last departure from Chamonix that allows a cave visit as well as the final train back down. There may still be time to reach the viewpoint long after the last sensible departure for the cave. On a short winter afternoon, save the steps for another visit and enjoy the ride back down to the valley together.

Explore EDEN chalets in Chamonix