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DIY S01E02: Mallory Couloir

Aiguille du Midi

Chamonix

Skyway Monte Bianco

The Mallory down the North Face of the Aiguille du Midi is an intimidating and extremely exposed "classic" of Chamonix.

Freeride Skiing Extreme

Distance
1.9 km
Ascent
11 m
Descent
1.3 km
Low Point
2.4 km
High Point
3.7 km
Gradient
51˚
DIY S01E02: Mallory Couloir Map

The Mallory Couloir in the North Face of the Aiguille du Midi is an intimidating and extremely exposed "classic" of Chamonix. It's a rocky pinnacle rising 3,842m from the town of Chamonix into the thin air of Europe's highest mountain, the Mont Blanc. Its Téléphérique still holds the record as the highest vertical ascent cable car in the world. And it's right below this cable car where climbing aficionados—and extreme skiers and snowboarders—find the Mallory Couloir: A 500m-long route that's rated TD+ (très difficile + = very difficult+) and boasts an average steepness of 50-55 degrees with passages up to 58 degrees!

Description

Take the Aiguille du Midi lift up and after a short ride down you will drop into the north face where the line begins. This line is very exposed and will require a number of rappels to get safely down the face. You will also need crampons, a rope, and ice axes.

Watch the full video of this line, featured in Xavier de le Rue's web series, DIY: Mallory: https://youtu.be/ZuLN64LdL0s

Difficulty

Extreme

Extreme skiing terrain above 45 degrees. These routes are reserved for experienced experts.

Extreme Exposure (E4)

4 out of 4

In case of a fall, the skier faces certain death.

Remoteness

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Face
  • Cliffs
  • Glacier

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons
  • Glacier kit

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area