Mont Blanc massif

Mont Blanc massif is a mountain range spanning across the Western Alps in France, Switzerland, and Italy. The massif contains eleven major peaks above 4,000 meters (13,120 feet) and is composed of granite and metamorphic rock formations.

The first documented ascent of Mont Blanc happened in 1786 when Jacques Balmat and Michel Paccard reached the summit, marking the beginning of modern mountaineering. This achievement sparked widespread interest in Alpine climbing and shaped mountaineering practices for centuries to come.

The Tour du Mont Blanc trail connects three countries through a 170-kilometer circuit, enabling hikers to experience multiple Alpine cultures and traditions.

The region is best visited between June and October when mountain huts operate and trails are fully accessible. Visitors can use cable cars and mountain railways to reach higher elevations or hike along established paths at various difficulty levels.

The massif contains the Mer de Glace and Miage Glacier, among the longest glaciers in the region. These ice masses form important watershed divides between the Rhône and Po river systems and visibly shape the landscape.

Location: Canton of Valais

Location: Aosta Valley

Location: Haute-Savoie

Location: Savoie

Made from material: metamorphic rock, granite, rhyolite

Part of: External massif

GPS coordinates: 45.83333,6.85000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:18