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East Face of the Tour Ronde

Chamonix

Skyway Monte Bianco

The most straightforward way to ski the Tour Ronde out of its four skiable sides.

Ski Touring Extreme

Distance
348 m
Ascent
276 m
Descent
0 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
3.5 km
High Point
3.8 km
Gradient
52˚
East Face of the Tour Ronde Map

Approach from either the top of the Skyway Monte Bianco lift station or from the Aiguille du Midi cable car top station (via a skin up and across the Vallée Blanche). The approach is shorter from the Skyway (Italian side), ski over the Col des Flambeaux and descend towards the Tour Ronde before skinning back up to the East Face. Climb up the Normal Route on the East Face and enjoy this fantastic little summit. The views over the Brenva side of Mont Blanc are unrivalled. The Tour Ronde summit is a great spot from which to scout other steep ski lines on the backside of Mont Blanc.

Description

It is possible to start skiing just 10 meters below the summit on a nice flat bench. It is usually best to descend the same way, depending on snow build up one short abseil may be needed (there is a lone bolt on a rock step near the top of the East Face). There are several small variations you can take.

Although it is a relatively short line the skiing is still very exposed. This aspect of the Tour Ronde also receives intense sun during warm spring days and can be prone to rockfall in May or June during a dry season. It is also very popular to climb the Tour Ronde in summer, however the East Face is becoming more and more dangerous due to climate change and can often be out of condition by early summer.

Difficulty

Extreme

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

High Exposure (E3)

3 out of 4

In case of a fall, death is highly likely.

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 February and June

Features

  • Alpine
  • Cliffs
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Skins
  • Crampons
  • Glacier kit

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area