Why Take a Variant?
The standard TMB route is spectacular, but the variants often lead to the most memorable moments of the trek. They trade extra effort for wilder terrain, fewer crowds, and views that most hikers miss.
Not every variant is worth it. Here's our honest assessment.
The Must-Do Variants
Fenêtre d'Arpette (instead of Bovine)
Extra effort: +400m elevation gain, +2 hours
Scenery: 10/10
Difficulty: Challenging — steep, exposed, scrambling near the top
This is the single best variant on the TMB. The descent from the Fenêtre into the Trient Valley is raw, wild, and breathtaking. The standard Bovine route is pleasant but forgettable. If the weather is clear and you're fit, take the Fenêtre. No question.
Skip if: Weather is poor (exposed above 2,500m), you have vertigo, or you're exhausted from previous days.
Col des Fours (instead of direct to Les Chapieux)
Extra effort: +300m elevation gain, +1.5 hours
Scenery: 8/10
Difficulty: Moderate
A high-altitude detour that rewards with panoramic views of the Beaufortain range. The col sits at 2,665m — one of the highest points accessible on any TMB variant. The extra effort is modest and the views are outstanding.
Lac Blanc (instead of standard Stage 10)
Extra effort: +500m elevation gain, +2.5 hours
Scenery: 9/10
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
The iconic milky-blue lake with Mont Blanc reflected in its surface. Lac Blanc is one of the most photographed spots in the Alps. The detour adds significant elevation but the payoff is enormous. Plan to arrive mid-morning for the best light.
Worth Considering
Grand Balcon Sud (Chamonix variant)
Extra effort: Minimal — it replaces the valley route
Scenery: 7/10
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
A high traversing path above the Chamonix Valley with constant views of the Mont Blanc range. Less dramatic than the top-tier variants but far better than walking through town.
Col de la Tricot (instead of standard descent to Les Contamines)
Extra effort: +200m, +1 hour
Scenery: 7/10
Difficulty: Moderate — a suspension bridge adds excitement
A scenic alternative with a dramatic suspension bridge over the Bionnassay Gorge. Fun but not essential.
Not Worth the Effort
Ultra-TMB detours via CCC/UTMB trail sections
Some hikers try to incorporate trail running race routes. These are designed for speed, not scenery, and often follow jeep tracks or ski runs. Stick to the hiking variants.
Planning Your Variants
Use our interactive planner to toggle variants on and off, see the impact on distance and elevation, and plan your stages accordingly. Each variant shows real GPX data so you know exactly what you're getting into.
Ready to Plan Your TMB?
Use our interactive planner to build your custom itinerary, find refuges, and download GPX files.
Start Planning