Traversée des Aiguilles d'Entrèves (3600m) - A mixed ridge route between France and Italy
Accessible from the Pointe Helbronner (3462 m) via the Skyway cable car on the Italian side, the traverse of the Aiguilles d'Entrèves is a magnificent mixed, fun and varied ridge route. The whole day is spent in an exceptional setting, with the Géant glacier, the Tour Ronde and the great faces of Mont Blanc in the background. This crossing between France and Italy begins at the Col d'Entrèves (3527 m), which you reach after a splendid glacier hike in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif.
The route alternates between rocky sections, short climbing sections, tapering ridge sections and a few abseils. The thread of the final ridge is airy, but the holds are good and the exposure well controlled. Depending on the conditions, the route can be done with or without crampons, making it a great introduction to mixed routes. The summit, at 3600 m, marks the high point of this traverse before a leisurely return via the glacier.
An elegant alternative to the classic Cosmiques ridge or the Pointes Lachenal, this route is perfect for those wishing to try out ridge running with a bit of commitment.
This is the perfect introduction to mixed ridge routes, for people who already have some experience of climbing or mountain terrain. You don't need to be an expert, but you do need to be comfortable in rocky terrain with moderate exposure.
The route is rated AD (fairly difficult). It includes a glacier hike, some climbing up to level IV, a sometimes tapering ridge and short abseils. It is accessible with good supervision and a reasonable level of fitness.
It takes between 5 and 6 hours to complete the route, from arrival at Helbronner Point to the return journey. This includes the glacier approach, the traverse and the return by the same route.
The majority of the passages can be climbed with peace of mind thanks to the short rope belay and my help. The short IV passage can be effectively protected and partially bypassed depending on the conditions. The route remains flexible depending on the level of the group.
No, I provide all the technical equipment: harness, helmet, crampons, ice axe, ropes, etc. All you need is warm clothing, mountaineering boots and something to hydrate and eat during the race.
Yes, the race can be postponed or replaced in the event of bad weather (strong winds, thunderstorms, fresh snow) or if the safety conditions on the ridge are not met. I will always offer you a suitable alternative if necessary.
Live with your guide, from first contact to the summit.
Creative and flexible
A flexible framework for devising the most appropriate itinerary or activity for each day, depending on the group and the conditions.
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