About
Cabane des Pics Noirs sits at 2,360m on the eastern flank of Mont-Blanc massif in Haute-Savoie, deep in the Parc National de la Vanoise approach zone. Reach it from Chamonix valley via the Vallée de Montjoie trailhead near Saint-Gervais. The approach takes 4–5 hours from the road end, climbing steadily through forest then alpine meadow to the cabin's rocky perch. The trail is well-marked but steep in sections; scrambling experience helps on the final approach. Winter access is unreliable; visit June through September.
The cabin is a simple stone refuge run by FFCAM. It sleeps around 20 people in dormitory rooms and has basic but adequate mattresses and blankets. Meals are served communally—expect hearty mountain food rather than restaurant fare. Water comes from snowmelt and a spring; the cabin has no shower facilities. There are pit toilets outside. The location makes it an excellent base for climbs to Pic de la Tournette (2,351m) and peaks across the Vallée de Montjoie, or as a waypoint on longer traverses toward Mont-Blanc routes.
Book directly with FFCAM Chamonix section or through the national FFCAM booking system. July and August fill fast; aim to reserve by May for summer weekends. The cabin operates on an honour system during shoulder seasons when the guardian is absent. Check current status before arriving in winter—the cabin may be closed or available only for self-catering groups.
The cabin is a simple stone refuge run by FFCAM. It sleeps around 20 people in dormitory rooms and has basic but adequate mattresses and blankets. Meals are served communally—expect hearty mountain food rather than restaurant fare. Water comes from snowmelt and a spring; the cabin has no shower facilities. There are pit toilets outside. The location makes it an excellent base for climbs to Pic de la Tournette (2,351m) and peaks across the Vallée de Montjoie, or as a waypoint on longer traverses toward Mont-Blanc routes.
Book directly with FFCAM Chamonix section or through the national FFCAM booking system. July and August fill fast; aim to reserve by May for summer weekends. The cabin operates on an honour system during shoulder seasons when the guardian is absent. Check current status before arriving in winter—the cabin may be closed or available only for self-catering groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; shoulder season (June, September) requires 4–6 weeks' notice.
The cabin is typically open and staffed from mid-June to mid-September; winter access is unreliable.
Start from the Vallée de Montjoie trailhead near Saint-Gervais (Chamonix valley); the approach is 4–5 hours, gaining elevation through forest and alpine meadow with steep, rocky sections requiring scrambling experience.
Expect basic dormitory beds, a communal kitchen, and simple meals prepared on-site; bring a sleeping bag and expect no shower facilities.
No—the final approach requires scrambling ability and route-finding skills; it's best for hikers with mountaineering experience or those training for Alpine ascents.
Location
45.9563, 6.2805
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2.5
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