The Western Alps offer ski mountaineers a combination of terrain, snow reliability, hut infrastructure and route variety that draws mountaineers and skiers from around the world. From the Écrins and Vanoise in the south to the Mont Blanc massif, the Valais and the Urner Alps, the range of high-level ski touring here is extensive, with routes to suit all levels of ability and ambition.

This Cicerone guidebook covers the finest high-level ski tours and ski mountaineering routes in the Western Alps across France, Switzerland and Italy, written by an IFMGA-qualified mountain and ski guide with extensive experience of the region. The routes described range from multi-day traverses to single-day high-level tours, providing a substantial programme of ski mountaineering across the full extent of the Western Alps.

• The classic Haute Route, the celebrated ski mountaineering traverse from Chamonix to Zermatt, is described in full, alongside the Verbier High-Level Route and the Arolla High-Level Circuit in the Valais
• Tours in the Écrins include the Écrins Haute Route; the Vanoise is covered by La Poulé High-Level Circuit; the Gran Paradiso Haute Route crosses into Italy; and the Haute Maurienne Traverse covers one of the more remote areas of the Western Alps
• High-level day tours in the Mont Blanc massif and the Zermatt and Saas Fee 4000ers are described for those wanting shorter objectives within a longer stay
• Each tour is supported by detailed route descriptions, mapping information and hut details, with practical information on centres, access and the best times of year for each route
• A comprehensive introduction covers ski mountaineering skills, equipment, avalanche awareness, mountain weather, crevasse rescue and the practicalities of planning a Western Alps ski tour

A detailed and authoritative guide to ski mountaineering across the Western Alps, from classic traverses to high-level day tours. 

Alpine Ski Mountaineering Vol 1 - Western Alps

Series: Alpine Ski Mountaineering  
Volume: Vol 1 Western Alps  
Countries: France, Switzerland, Italy  
Areas covered: Écrins, Vanoise, Haute Maurienne, Gran Paradiso, Mont Blanc massif, Valais, Urner Alps  
Tours included: Écrins Haute Route; Haute Maurienne Traverse; La Poulé Vanoise High-Level Circuit; Gran Paradiso Haute Route; Mont Blanc Haute Route; High-Level Day Tours in the Mont Blanc Massif; Classic Haute Route (Chamonix to Zermatt); Verbier High-Level Route; Arolla High-Level Circuit; Zermatt and Saas Fee 4000ers  
Key centres: Chamonix, Champex, Zermatt, La Bérarde, Bonneval-sur-Arc, Aussois, Cogne (Val d'Aosta), Verbier  
Difficulty: Ski mountaineering experience essential; routes cover a range of difficulty; the activity is potentially dangerous and should only be undertaken by those with appropriate training and experience  
Best season: February to May; best times vary by route and are indicated throughout  

Author Highlight

“The reasons for the increasing popularity of ski mountaineering appear obvious to those who have done it. Foremost, there seems to be a desire on the part of skiers to find adventure away from crowded slopes and well-groomed snow. One can find deep satisfaction in developing and displaying the skill, independence and effort needed to enjoy the hidden heart of mountains where solitude, beauty, adventure and sheer enjoyment prevail. Surely this is the perfect antidote to modern living.”

- Bill O'Connor, author of Alpine Ski Mountaineering Vol 1 - Western Alps

Seasons

Generally, February/March until May. Best times vary from route to route, and are indicated in the guide.

Centres

Chamonix, Champex, Zermatt, La Berade, Bonneval-sur-Arc, Aussois, Cogne (Val d'Aosta), Verbier.

Difficulty

Ski mountaineering is a potentially dangerous activity, and should only be undertaken by those with a full understanding of the risks and with the training and experience to evaluate them.

Must See

Idyllic conditions of perfect snow, few crevasses, a track in place, and perfect clear weather!

IGN 1:25,000

Meije Pelvoux TOP 25 2436 ET

Tignes - Val d Isere - Haute Maurienne TOP 25 2633 ET

Les Trois Vallees TOP 25 3534 OT

Chamonix Massif du Mt Blanc 3630 OT

St Gervais 3531 ET

Didier Richards 1:50,000

Ecrins - Haute-Dauphine

IGC 1:25,000

Grand Paradiso la Grivola Cogne

Cervino-Matterhorn e Monte Rosa

Kompass 1:50,000. Sheet 86

CNS Ski Maps 1:50,000. Sheets: 282S, 283S, 284S.

CNS 1:25,000. Sheets: 1344, 1345, 1346, 1347, 1348, 1329, 1326

Landerskarte Der Schweiz 1:50,000. Sheets: 283S, 293

Landerskarte Der Schweiz 1:25,000. Sheets: 1327, 1346, 1347, 1328, 1329, 1347, 1348, 1349

July 2013

Alpine hut seasons

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