4,807 m
Elevation
4,695 m
Prominence
45.8326°, 6.8652°
Coordinates
1786 — Jacques Balmat & Michel-Gabriel Paccard
First Ascent
About Mont Blanc
The highest peak in the Alps and Western Europe. Its ascent in 1786 is widely regarded as the birth of modern mountaineering.
Climbing Mont Blanc: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually May to October (July–September for the high routes).
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
Note: Glaciated, altitude, technical sections
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in France?
The highest mountain in France is Mont Blanc, at 4,807 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Mont Blanc?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Mont Blanc without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Mont Blanc?
The usual season is May to October (July–September for the high routes). Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Mont Blanc?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Mont Blanc?
Mont Blanc stands at 4,807 meters (15,771 feet).
Where is Mont Blanc located?
Mont Blanc is located in France, within the Graian Alps.
Has Martin climbed Mont Blanc?
Yes — Martin summited Mont Blanc in 2023 as part of his country highpointing project.