• Snow Routes

    NE couloir on the Courtes
    There is a great diversity of snow routes in the Mont Blanc Massif, summiting on some of the most beautiful mountains in the range.

    Winter climbing has added problems like shorter daylight hours, avalanche and serac fall, and varying snow conditions. General     mountain safety rules should be followed.

    For the less experienced climber,     mountain guides     courses, one to one guiding and extreme couloir skiing.

    Approach is mainly on skis to the bottom of the route, where they are left to facilitate a quick descent to the valley.

    Some routes can be climbed carrying short skis, if the descent is to be made by another face.

    Many routes are climbed specifically with the ski down in mind.

    The     winter ascent of Mont Blanc is on skis with the final section being generally on foot.
  • page banner

  • Some of the most classical routes

    Migot Spur in the Chardonnet
    The North East face of the Courtes: A good starting route in impressive surroundings, not too steep or difficult (depending on snow conditions) 800m of ascent, 5h to 6h, max 50°

    The Couturier couloir, Aiguille Verte: One of the most beautiful and direct lines in the Alps. 1000m of ascent at altitude, 4h to 6hr to the top. Between 45° and 55°. care must be taken due to the regularity of the climbing and of ice fall.

    Gervasutti couloir, Tour Ronde: The classic route. 350m, The couloir is large and steep with 45° to 50° sections. In good snow conditions the ascent can be made fairly quickly.

  • Guide Books:

    The many other areas covered by numerous guide books offering further information on these and other snow routes:
    Neige, Glace et Mixte by Francois Damilano and Godefroy Perroux
    La Chaine du Mont Blanc 1&2, Guide Vallot

    More Resources...

  • For further information on winter mountaineering:

    Mountaineering Safety        Mountain Huts      Mountain Guides        Mixed Routes      Ice Routes    Icefall Climbing

    Ski      Skiing Mont Blanc           Mountaineering Navigation Page