Good practice in the mountains

Safety, respect and responsibility

The mountains are a place of freedom and discovery, but they are also a challenging environment that requires preparation and respect. Whether you are a hiker, a mountaineer or simply out for a walk, adopting the right habits is essential to ensure your safety and protect the environment.

1. Make sure you’re well prepared for your outing

Check the forecast before you set off

Check the weather forecast on Météo-France to avoid thunderstorms, fog or extreme temperatures.
Check trail conditions on specialist websites such as Camptocamp or at local tourist information centres.

Choose a route suited to your ability

Assess the difficulty (elevation gain, duration, technical difficulty) and do not overestimate your abilities.
Consult IGN maps (Géoportail) and guidebooks to plan your route carefully.
You can also assess your level here.

Prepare your kit

The right kit is essential:

Hiking boots suitable for the terrain
Layered clothing to cope with changing weather conditions
A rucksack containing water (at least 1.5 litres per person), snacks, a map, and a compass or GPS
First-aid kit and emergency blanket
Head torch with spare batteries
A fully charged mobile phone with the ‘SAIP’ app for safety alerts

2. Behave responsibly on the trails

Follow the signposts

Follow the official signposts to avoid getting lost.
Stay on the paths to protect the flora and prevent soil erosion.

Don’t overestimate your strength

Take regular breaks and be aware of how tired you are.
If you encounter difficulties, do not take any risks and turn back if necessary.

Dealing with natural hazards

In winter, check the Avalanche Risk Assessment Bulletin (ANENA).
In summer, be aware of rockfalls and flash floods in the mountains.
Download the GendLoc app to share your location in an emergency.

3. Respect for nature and others

Protecting flora and fauna

Do not pick plants: some species are protected.
Keep your distance from wild animals, especially in spring (when they are giving birth).

Minimising your environmental impact

Take all your rubbish home with you (including biodegradable items such as peelings).
Use reusable water bottles and avoid single-use packaging.

Reducing noise pollution

Speak quietly and avoid playing music so as not to disturb wildlife or other walkers.

Follow the rules on wild camping

Wild camping is regulated: check with your local council or Parcs Nationaux de France for information on permits.
Choose mountain huts and designated camping areas.
Do not light fires in open countryside to prevent wildfires.

4. Safety in the mountains: what should you do if you get into trouble?

Emergency numbers in the mountains

112: European emergency number
15: Ambulance service
18: Fire brigade
114: Emergency text message service for deaf or hard-of-hearing people

What to do if you find yourself in difficulty

If you are lost, stay where you are and contact the emergency services.
To report your location: send a text message with your GPS coordinates.
In the event of an accident, tend to the injured person and secure the scene whilst waiting for help to arrive.

5. Enjoying mountain activities safely

Hiking and trail running

Set off early to avoid heatstroke and late-afternoon thunderstorms.
Choose to carpool or use public transport to get to the mountains (Chamonix Bus, Altibus).

Mountain biking and winter sports

Wear a helmet and follow the trail signs.
Adjust your speed to suit the terrain and other users.

Mountaineering and climbing

Check your equipment before every outing.
Always stay roped up on challenging routes.
Check route guides and conditions on websites such as FFCAM or Camptocamp.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy the mountains to the full whilst helping to preserve this exceptional environment. 🌿🏔️

Green news

When hiking: watch out for rockfalls

In the mountains, natural areas are increasingly subject to unpredictable weather conditions, and this can sometimes present certain risks that you need to be aware of. Among these, rockfalls and falling rocks are common and must be taken seriously.

What causes rockfalls?

Natural causes: erosion of the mountains, exacerbated by temperature fluctuations between day and night, weakens the rock. In the Chablais region, limestone formations are particularly vulnerable: with global warming and the increase in acid rain, rockfalls are becoming more frequent.
Wildlife: animals moving about can trigger rockfalls.
Human factors: heavy use of footpaths, or the presence of walkers above you, can also cause rocks to come loose.

How can you minimise the risks?
Vigilance remains the best protection!

Identify rockfall zones: unstable boulders, stony gullies, fragile snowfields… In these areas, you must not stop or take a break.
Keep an eye on what’s happening above: whether it’s walkers or animals, even the slightest movement can be enough to trigger a rockfall.
Wear the necessary protective gear: carrying a helmet is by no means an over-caution. On certain routes, such as the approach to the Dent d’Oche, it may even be recommended.

And inform the CCPEVA or the Tourist Offices if you witness a rockfall.