Serre Chevalier Bike Park Guide — Runs, Lifts & What to Expect
The gondola from Chantemerle reaches 2,483m and the descent network covers over 1,100m of vertical across 25 marked runs. It is less well-known internationally than Morzine or Les Gets, which means shorter queues and quieter runs even in peak weeks.
Getting There and Lift Access
The bike park runs from the Serre Ratier gondola in Chantemerle. Bikes travel in the cabin or on external racks. A day pass is required on top of bike rental and is sold at the gondola base. The gondola runs daily from late June through mid-August, then weekends only in early June and late September.
- Gondola from Chantemerle, Serre Ratier station.
- First gondola typically 9:00–9:30am.
- Last descent signalled 30–60 minutes before gondola close, usually 5pm.
- Day pass sold at the gondola base — not included in any rental price.
- Half-day pass available from midday.
Runs by Difficulty
The park covers a wide range. Don't skip the easier runs on your first visit — they give you a feel for the terrain and surface before committing to steeper lines.
- Green. Flow trails, wide and forgiving, right for first-timers.
- Blue. Moderate descents, some technical sections, good for building confidence.
- Red. Technical singletrack, roots, rocks, some drops and steeper pitches.
- Black. Steep, committing lines with larger features and exposure.
- Double black. Expert terrain with serious consequence.
Choosing a Rental Bike for the Park
Bike choice matters. A trail hardtail handles green and blue; red and black reward a full-suspension bike. Dedicated downhill bikes are available in Chantemerle for riders spending most of their time on the hardest runs. See the downhill bike rental guide for specs and prices.
- Green and blue. Hardtail or entry-level full-suspension.
- Red. Full-suspension trail or enduro bike.
- Black. Enduro or dedicated downhill bike.
- E-MTBs permitted on most runs, good for climb-back sections between descents.
- Full-face helmet mandatory on black runs, strongly recommended on red.
Facilities at the Base
Most of what you need is within a short walk of the gondola station in Chantemerle.
- Pump track and skills area open to all — no pass required.
- Bike wash station at the gondola base.
- Basic repair stand with tools.
- Cafes and a restaurant at the base.
- Rental shops within riding distance of the station.
On Your First Visit
A few things that make the day significantly better. For help choosing the right rental bike, see the main rental guide.
- Ride green and blue first — get a feel for the terrain before going harder.
- Do a full top-to-bottom run before sessioning any section.
- Go early — gondola queues build from 10am in peak weeks.
- Grab a trail map from the gondola base before heading up.
- Bring more protection than you think you'll need on day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Serre Chevalier bike park good?
Yes. Serious vertical (1,100m+), a range of descents from beginner to expert, and a gondola that runs reliably all summer. It is less well-known internationally than Morzine or Les Gets, which means shorter queues and quieter runs.
How much does a bike park day pass cost at Serre Chevalier?
Pass prices are updated each season and sold at the gondola base in Chantemerle. Budget around €30–€50 per adult day pass based on recent seasons. Kids passes are significantly cheaper. Check the Serre Chevalier tourism website for current prices before travelling.
Do I need my own bike to ride the Serre Chevalier bike park?
No. Rental shops in Chantemerle and across the valley provide bikes suited to the park. You do need a separate day pass, bought at the gondola station.
Is the Serre Chevalier bike park suitable for beginners?
Yes, with care. The beginner area at the base and the green-graded runs are genuinely accessible. But the mountain is big and it is easy to take a wrong turn onto terrain that is much harder. Stick to marked green trails on your first visit and don't leave the signed network.