Switzerland — Monthey
Col de Coux Traverse: A moderate, 25km Swiss Alps multi-day walk. Traverse dramatic highlands and verdant alpine meadows, linking charming villages over 2-3 days. This route offers breathtaking panoramas and a deep connection with pristine wilderness, accessible from major transport hubs.
Distance: 25.0 km
Elevation Gain: 1500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 days
The Col de Coux Traverse is a captivating multi-day walk nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering a quintessential alpine experience. This route winds through dramatic mountain landscapes, traversing high passes, verdant alpine meadows, and charming mountain villages. It's a journey that rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas, a sense of accomplishment, and a deep connection with the natural beauty of the region. The traverse is renowned for its accessibility from major transport hubs while still providing a genuine wilderness feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a challenging yet manageable alpine adventure.
The Col de Coux Traverse is a moderately challenging route that typically spans two to three days, depending on the hiker's pace and preference for extended exploration. The trail begins in the picturesque village of Morgins, a well-established tourist destination in the Valais canton of Switzerland. From Morgins, the path ascends steadily, gradually revealing the majestic scale of the surrounding peaks. The initial stages often lead through dense pine forests, their scent filling the crisp mountain air, before opening up into expansive alpine pastures dotted with wildflowers during the summer months.
A significant feature of the traverse is the Col de Coux itself, a mountain pass that serves as a natural boundary and a high point offering panoramic views. The ascent to the pass is demanding, requiring a good level of fitness, but the reward is immense. From the summit, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of the French Alps to one side and the Swiss Alps to the other, a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The descent from the pass leads into new valleys, often featuring crystal-clear mountain lakes and traditional alpine chalets that offer a glimpse into the local way of life.
The trail is well-marked, a characteristic of Swiss hiking paths, ensuring that navigation is generally straightforward. However, the terrain can be rugged in places, with rocky sections and steep gradients that necessitate sturdy footwear and careful footing. The duration of the hike allows for a comfortable pace, with opportunities to pause, take photographs, and simply soak in the magnificent scenery. The journey concludes in a different valley or village, providing a sense of progression and discovery. The Col de Coux Traverse is an excellent introduction to multi-day hiking in the Alps, balancing physical exertion with unparalleled natural beauty and cultural immersion.
The region surrounding the Col de Coux has a rich history intertwined with transhumance, trade, and the strategic importance of mountain passes. For centuries, these valleys have been traversed by shepherds moving their livestock between summer pastures (alpages) and winter quarters. This practice, known as transhumance, has shaped the cultural landscape, leaving behind traditional farming methods and architectural styles that are still visible today.
Mountain passes like the Col de Coux have historically served as vital links between communities, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Switzerland and France. While not a major historical trade route in the same vein as some of the larger Alpine passes, it would have been used by local communities for centuries, connecting villages and enabling the movement of goods and people. The presence of old stone structures or remnants of ancient paths can sometimes be found, hinting at the historical significance of these routes.
The development of modern tourism in the Alps, particularly from the late 19th and early 20th centuries onwards, transformed these traditional routes into hiking trails. Local authorities and hiking associations began to mark and maintain paths, making them accessible to a wider audience. The Col de Coux Traverse, while perhaps not as historically documented as some of the more famous Alpine routes, benefits from this legacy of path maintenance and a long-standing appreciation for the mountain environment. Today, the traverse represents a blend of natural heritage and the enduring human connection to the Alpine landscape, offering a journey through a region that has been shaped by both nature and human endeavour over millennia.
The Col de Coux Traverse is best enjoyed during the summer months, typically from June to September. During this period, the snow has largely receded from the higher elevations, making the trails accessible and safe for hiking. The weather in the Alps can be highly variable, even during the summer. Hikers should be prepared for a range of conditions, from warm sunshine to sudden thunderstorms and cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
June: Early June can still see lingering snow at higher elevations, particularly on north-facing slopes. Wildflowers begin to bloom, and the landscape starts to turn green. The days are long, offering ample time for hiking. However, some higher passes might still be impassable or require snow gear.
July and August: These are the peak months for hiking. The weather is generally warmer, and the alpine meadows are in full bloom, creating a spectacular display of colour. This is also the busiest time for hikers. Thunderstorms are more common in the afternoons, so starting hikes early in the morning is advisable.
September: September offers a beautiful autumn palette with changing colours in the forests. The crowds thin out, and the air is often crisp and clear. However, the temperatures begin to drop, and there is an increased chance of early snowfall, especially towards the end of the month. The days are shorter, requiring careful planning of hiking times.
Weather Considerations: Regardless of the season, mountain weather can change rapidly. Hikers must always be prepared for rain, wind, and a significant drop in temperature, even on a sunny day. Hypothermia is a risk at higher altitudes. It is crucial to check the weather forecast before setting out and to carry appropriate clothing and safety equipment.
Day 1: Morgins to Chalet du Col de Coux (or nearby refuge)
Day 2: Chalet du Col de Coux to Châtel (or other valley destination)
Day 1: Morgins to a mid-route mountain hut/alpage
Day 2: Mid-route hut to Chalet du Col de Coux
Day 3: Chalet du Col de Coux to Châtel
Important Notes:
The Col de Coux Traverse is a multi-day hike that requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The closest major city with comprehensive services is Monthey, which serves as a convenient gateway to the region. From Monthey, public transport, primarily buses, connects hikers to the trailhead village of Morgins. It is advisable to spend at least one night in Monthey or Morgins before starting the hike to acclimatise, gather last-minute supplies, and confirm transport arrangements.
Fitness: The traverse involves significant elevation gain and loss, with moderate to challenging sections. Hikers should be in good physical condition, capable of walking for several hours each day with a backpack. Training that includes hill walking and carrying a weighted pack is highly recommended. The 1,500 metres of elevation gain over the course of the hike requires a reasonable level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength.
Logistics: Plan your transport to and from the trailheads. Geneva Airport (GVA) is the nearest international airport. From Geneva, take a train to Monthey (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). From Monthey, a bus (line 61) will take you to Morgins (approximately 30 minutes). Ensure you have a return plan from your finishing point, which may involve similar bus and train connections.
Base Town: Morgins is a charming village that serves as an excellent starting point. It offers hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and basic amenities. For more extensive services, Monthey is the larger town with a wider range of accommodation, supermarkets, outdoor gear shops, and a more comprehensive public transport network.
Accommodation along the Col de Coux Traverse typically consists of mountain huts (refuges) and guesthouses or hotels in the villages. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season (July and August).
Mountain Huts (Refuges):
Village Accommodation:
Note: This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
For the Col de Coux Traverse, no specific hiking permits are required. The trails are part of the public domain and are generally accessible to all. However, it is crucial to note that accommodation in mountain huts or refuges along the route does require advance booking. These bookings are managed by the individual hut operators or relevant alpine clubs and are essential to secure a place to stay, particularly during the busy summer months.
Accommodation Booking:
National Park Regulations: While no specific hiking permits are needed, always be aware of and adhere to any local regulations regarding camping, fires, and waste disposal in the areas you traverse. Respecting the natural environment is paramount.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Col De Coux Traverse (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Col De Coux Traverse, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding the Col de Coux Traverse offers a wealth of activities for those looking to extend their stay or explore beyond the hiking trails:
Weather: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Always check the forecast before you depart and be prepared for rapid changes. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, even on sunny days.
Trail Conditions: Trails are generally well-maintained and marked, but can be steep, rocky, and exposed in places. Snow can linger on higher passes well into June or even early July, and early snowfalls can occur in September. Always wear appropriate footwear and use trekking poles for stability.
Navigation: While trails are marked, it is essential to carry a map and compass and know how to use them. A GPS device or smartphone with offline maps is also highly recommended. Do not rely solely on mobile phone signal, as it can be unreliable in mountainous terrain.
Water: Carry sufficient water for your daily needs. While streams are often potable at higher altitudes, it is advisable to use a water filter or purification tablets as a precaution, especially at lower elevations or near livestock.
Altitude: The Col de Coux Traverse reaches an altitude of approximately 1,850 metres. While not extremely high, some individuals may experience mild altitude sickness. Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.
Emergency: In case of emergency, contact local mountain rescue services. The general emergency number in Switzerland is 144. For mountain rescue, specific numbers may apply depending on the region, but 144 is a good starting point. Ensure you have a fully charged mobile phone and consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) for remote areas.
Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife. While encounters are rare, respect their space and do not feed any animals. Livestock, such as cows and sheep, are common in alpine pastures; give them a wide berth.
Insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers hiking and potential mountain rescue.
Alpine Pastures (Alpages): Throughout the traverse, you will likely pass through traditional alpine pastures where cows graze during the summer months. These areas are often dotted with charming wooden chalets and offer opportunities to witness traditional farming practices. Some alpages may offer fresh cheese for sale.
Panoramic Viewpoints: The Col de Coux itself is a significant viewpoint, offering expansive vistas. Along the route, numerous natural clearings and ridges provide excellent spots for photography and to simply admire the grandeur of the Alps. Keep an eye out for markers indicating specific viewpoints.
Local Villages: Morgins and Châtel (or other potential finishing villages) are points of interest in themselves. They offer a glimpse into local Swiss and French Alpine culture, with traditional architecture, local cuisine, and opportunities to interact with residents.
Flora and Fauna: The alpine meadows are rich in wildflowers during the summer months, providing a vibrant display of colour. Birdlife is also abundant, and with luck, you might spot chamois or ibex in the higher, more remote areas.
Geological Features: Observe the dramatic geological formations, including the U-shaped valleys carved by glaciers and the rugged rock faces that characterise the Alpine landscape.
The Col de Coux Traverse passes through pristine natural environments, and it is essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve their beauty and ecological integrity for future generations.
By adhering to these principles, you help ensure that the Col de Coux Traverse remains a beautiful and wild place for everyone to enjoy.
