Cabane de Chanrion CAS – High-Alpine Hut Guide

The Cabane de Chanrion CAS is a large and strategically located alpine hut in the upper Val de Bagnes, set near the Lac de Mauvoisin and surrounded by vast glacier systems. Less dramatic in access than some extreme huts, yet firmly alpine in character, Chanrion plays a key role in classic glacier crossings and long-distance high-mountain routes, including several variants of the Haute Route.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val de Bagnes (Mauvoisin area), Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,462 m

  • Type: Serviced CAS alpine hut (with winter room)

  • Capacity: Approx. 90–100 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to late September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (CAS)

• Access & Approaches

  Compared to many high-alpine huts, access to Chanrion is relatively straightforward.

  • Main approach: From Mauvoisin Dam (Barrage de Mauvoisin)

  • Hiking time: ~2.5–3.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~700–900 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, moraines, rocky terrain

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  Despite the moderate approach, the surrounding terrain is glaciated and serious.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The Cabane de Chanrion is one of the larger and more comfortable CAS huts in the region.

  • Spacious dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is functional but requires self-sufficiency.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Thanks to its size, Chanrion has a lively but efficient atmosphere.

  • Traditional Swiss alpine cuisine

  • Energy-rich meals for long glacier days

  • International mix of hikers and mountaineers

  Evenings often involve planning glacier crossings and early starts.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard CAS hut prices

  • Discounts: CAS member discounts apply

  • Booking: Strongly recommended in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

  Due to its role on major alpine routes, the hut fills quickly.

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane de Chanrion is a key alpine hub:

  • Haute Route variants (toward Vignettes, Prafleuri, Dix)

  • Glacier crossings in the Grand Combin and Mauvoisin area

  • High-alpine traverses linking Val de Bagnes and Val d’Hérens

  • Demanding summit routes in the surrounding massif

  Most routes require glacier travel and full alpine equipment.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, variable weather

  • Main risks: Crevasses, icefall, storms

  Stable weather windows and early starts are essential for glacier routes.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Mountaineers and alpinists

  • Ski tourers (spring)

  • Long-distance alpine trekkers

  • Not suitable for casual hikers without alpine awareness

• Practical Tips

  • Carry glacier equipment for onward routes

  • Bring a hut sleeping bag liner

  • Book well in advance

  • Start early for glacier crossings

  • Monitor weather and snow conditions closely

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,462 m, the Cabane de Chanrion CAS balances accessibility with true high-alpine scope. Its position near major glacier systems and on key alpine traverses makes it one of the most important logistical huts in the Valais—essential for anyone planning serious long-distance or glaciated routes.