Chamonix and Argentiere are renowned worldwide for their wide variety of challenging skiing, but there are also plenty of options for beginners, particularly at Le Tour at the top end of the valley. There are nursery slopes nearer town at La Vormaine, Les Chosalets and Les Planards. Intermediates and advanced skiers can enjoy up to 300 miles (500km) of slopes available with the full lift pass, ranging from Le Brevent and La Flegere to Les Grands-Montets. Les Grands-Montets is the major attraction for advanced skiers with some massive mogul fields and endless off-piste skiing. The Vallée Blanche is probably the best-known ski trail in the Alps: a 13 mile (21km) glacier running along the Mer de Glace back to Chamonix. It's often closed due to bad weather, but is an essential adventure for competent skiers. Skiers should take a guide and be prepared for bad weather.
