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Grands Montets Tram Reopening Timeline and Ski Guide (Updated July 2026)
The Grands Montets ski area in Chamonix, France is a freerider paradise famous for its steep slopes, glacier skiing, and views of the Aiguille Verte. Since a fire in September 2018 the Grands Montets cable car has been out of service. The 155 million euro rebuild designed by architect Renzo Piano originally targeted a December 2026 reopening but multiple construction setbacks have pushed the timeline further.
Grands Montets Tram Delay Update: July 2026
New Delay Confirmed: Updated correspondence received on July 6, 2026 indicates the upper Grands Montets tram has been delayed again.
The projected reopening is now December 2027 extending the timeline by one full year.
Previous guidance now outdated:
"After corresponding with both Dopplemayr and the Argentiere resort, they stated the tram is still on track for a December 2026 reopening."
MTB.SKi continues monitoring Dopplemayr Compagnie du Mont Blanc and local Argentiere updates for any further schedule changes.
Quick Picks for Skiing Grands Montets While the Tram Is Closed
Where to Stay Near Grands Montets
Argentiere is the closest base to Grand Montets offering fast access to Plan Joran and mid mountain terrain. Chamonix Centre provides more dining nightlife and transportation options.
Argentiere Lodging Map
Getting to Chamonix
The best airport for Chamonix is Geneva GVA located one hour from Argentiere. Use the flight tool below to compare fares for the upcoming season.
How to Ski Grands Montets While the Tram Is Closed
Even without the summit tram Grand Montets remains one of the best freeride zones in the Alps. Here is how to access terrain during the rebuild:
- Plan Joran Gondola: Primary lift to mid mountain terrain.
- Ski Touring: Access glacier routes including the Argentiere Glacier.
- Guided Skiing: Hire IFMGA guides for safe glacier travel.
- Pas de Chevre: Accessible with touring and proper conditions.
- Argentiere Glacier: Can be skied into town when conditions allow.
Grands Montets Reopening Timeline
- 2018: Fire destroys Lognan mid station and critical cables.
- 2020: 155 million euro Renzo Piano rebuild announced.
- 2024: Crane collapse at 3300 meters halts summit construction.
- 2025: Inspections and reconstruction planning resume.
- 2026: Updated correspondence confirms delay to December 2027.
- 2027: Expected December 2027 reopening of the new 3S summit tram.
The 2018 Fire
On September 11 2018 a fire erupted at the Lognan mid station during roofing repairs destroying over 500 square meters of infrastructure and melting critical cables. The blaze halted the cable car system connecting Argentiere to the summit leaving skiers without lift access to freeride routes like Pas de Chevre.
The Compagnie du Mont Blanc deemed the 1960s era system irreparable opting for a full rebuild. In the meantime skiers rely on the Plan Joran gondola or ski touring to access mid mountain terrain.
The Rebuild
In 2020 the Compagnie du Mont Blanc announced a 155 million euro project to restore Grands Montets with construction starting in spring 2024. The new system features a 10 seat gondola from Argentiere to Lognan and a 3S cable car to the summit offering 24 seats and panoramic views.
October 2024 Crane Collapse
On October 2 2024 a crane at the summit station collapsed during a de icing operation after six days of severe weather. The crane is vital for constructing the Piano designed top station and its loss paused work indefinitely.
Chamonix Heritage Collection
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- Verbier Ski Travel Guide
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