Slideshow

Itinerary

Equipment List

Dispatches

Crossing the Argentiere Glacier. Photo by Tim Connelly

Connecting the granite spires of the Mont Blanc massif with the grand summits of the Swiss Alps, the famous Haute Route passes through the heart of Europe's most beautiful range. This is the world's most famous high mountain ski route, and in its course we enjoy numerous ski descents, traverses of multiple large-scale glaciers in the heart of the Alps, and close-up views of some of the most awe-inspiring peaks in the Alps.

We start with a day of instruction on avalanche safety and rescue techniques including the use of avalanche beacons. We also begin our discussion of route assessment and route finding with map, compass, and altimeter. We spend another day skiing the Valle Blanche, from the top of the Aiguille du Midi down the famous Mer de Glace glacier. On that day we give more detailed instruction on procedures for glacier skiing and gain further acclimatization.

Afternoon skinning on day 2. Photo by Tim Connelly

On the Haute Route we utilize a system of huts, and their bunks and meal offerings enable us to stay high in the mountains for most of the route and to travel with extremely lightweight packs. Depending on conditions and time available, we may have the option to climb several summits along the way.

The final descent from the Col du Vignettes, past the imposing north face of the Matterhorn, ranks in our minds as the most beautiful ski descent in the world. In sum, this is a very special trip on which the superb scenery and atmosphere is matched by the excellence of the skiing.

Nearing the Col du Chardonnay. Photo by Tim Connelly

Inclusions:

• 5 nights in huts, dorm basis
• dinners and breakfasts in huts
• lift tickets
• taxi from Champex to Verbier
• guide fees and guide expenses

Exclusions: