Mont Tendre — Local services in Montricher

Suitable for half day hike (if one doesn't stop) or almost a full day hike (if one makes many stops for photos, rest, etc). Went in October and started from Col du Marchairuz. Some parts can feel long and tedious, e.g.when one has to walk along short section part of a vehicle road, cross several pastures and deal with poor signage in areas with multiple tracks. If the sky is crystal clear, there are decent views of Swiss Alps in the far distance and the valley below - the type of view some might describe as great. But as a landscape photographer, I wouldn't say it provides impressive photo opportunities unless there is opportunity to make use of lighting or snow effects to attempt shots with interesting focal points. I would say there are a lot more interesting hikes elsewhere in the Alps, Pyrenees, Canadian Rockies, New Zealand, or some of the US...

I ran to the top of Mont Tendre three times in six weeks while staying as a writer-in-residence at the Jan Michalski Foundation. My first time running to the top was a mild November day—light snow and fog at the bottom of the mountain. I met a nice German runner who summited with me. Running to the bottom was fast—in true Swiss style the trails make the most direct route between points A & B. The second time was actually even nicer weather and I could see all the way to Mont Blanc. Then there was the third time. Late December. Snow. Running was nigh impossible with drifts cresting over my head and straight line winds. The mountains were angry that day, my friends. But I made it to the top after three hours of postholing and slogging. It was worth every moment and I will forever treasure making it to the...

L'effort de l'ascension du Mont Tendre depuis Montricher par exemple, techniquement facile mais dont les 900m de dénivelé positif demandent de bonnes jambes, est toujours récompensé quelle que soit la saison, par la superbe vue au sommet, allant des Dents du Midi jusqu'au Mont Blanc et au-delà, pour autant évidemment que le ciel soit suffisamment dégagé. Les traditionnels murets en pierre sèche délimitant les pâturages, érigés depuis des siècles et toujours bien entretenus s'allongent sur des kilomètres et donnent à cet endroit un petit côté "Petite Muraille de Suisse". La diversité de la végétation est limitée par le fait que les lieux sont paturés en saison estivale, mais on y trouve cependant les diverses gentianes fréquentes dans le Jura et l'orchis mâle (qu'on ne cueille pas, comme toutes les orchidées sauvages !) . En hiver le temps peut y être rude et les vents forts. La buvette ouverte en saison à 10 minutes du sommet (et accessible en voiture, pour les moins sportifs) permet une petite pause, sinon prévoyez un...