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Dome

Chamonix

Les Grands Montets

A wide open glacier run with a steep exit

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
1.3 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
678 m
Low Point
2.4 km
High Point
3 km
Gradient
41˚
Dome Map

These inviting glacial slopes below the Pointe de Vue piste are heavily crevassed when seen in the summertime, but in a good winter appear uniform and smooth, allowing turns of any radius to be enjoyed with tons of space. As you are on a glacier make sure you are equipped, prepared and have practised crevasse rescue, however unlikely you think falling in a crevasse is- it is possible! A minimum would be each person to have harness, axe, crampons, an ice screw, 3 prussiks, several screwgates, a pulley/DMM Revolver karabiner, a couple of slings and 2 30m ropes in the group. A more modern simple solution substituting for many of the above might be 2 Petzl RAD systems in the group. If you have any doubts about this ski with an IFMGA Mountain Guide.

Description

Take the Pointe de Vue piste down until the start of the big traverse R. At this point you are going straight down and slightly L. There is a very slight convexity on certain parts of the slope so keep your speed under control, keeping an eye out for crevasses. You are funnelled down into a vague gulley which steepens as you descend. Towards the bottom you need to traverse slightly R to get the easiest exit on to the Argentiere Glacier below, although there are other steeper possibilities.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between January and May

Features

  • Glacier

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area