Chamonix's Ultimate Steep Skiing Ticklist

5 of the meanest lines in the world's craziest ski town.

Tom Grant

Images

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Aiguilles du Diables from Glacier du Geant - Mont Blanc massif - Graian Alps

by Francofranco56

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Gros Rognon et Alpes italiennes

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Aiguille Verte 4122m with Les Drus 3751 m, as seen from Lac d'Emosson

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Hike to Glacier d'Argentière

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Dropping into the very steep top slopes.

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Ross Hewitt psyched to be getting ready to ski.

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A compelling line fore both mountaineers and steep skiers

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Crossing over past the black ice streak to below the rock 'rognon'.

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Steep ski legend Andreas Fransson leading the way

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The upper abseil over the near permanent streak of black ice near the top. Under exceptional conditions it is possible to ski through without the rope here.

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Looking out of the Couvercle hut window at the north face of the Grandes Jorasses.

by Charlie Boscoe

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The Couvercle hut bathed in the last rays of sunlight.

by Charlie Boscoe

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Winter hero Winter hero

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Shredding the steeps in Chamonix

by Charlie Boscoe

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Description

A list for heroes to aim for and mortals to dream of, skiing one of these lines would be a lifetime goal for most steep skiers. Getting the perfect combination of acclimatisation, partners, and conditions required to ski any of these lines is tricky, and only the truly elite have ticked all 5.

Each of these lines is a major undertaking, so wait until you are confident in your ability and the snow conditions before contemplating any of them. If the stars do align and you are able to descend one of these lines, expect big exposure, huge views, and a real sense of adventure.

Chamonix is considered the Mecca of steep skiing, and these lines are amongst the most famous and revered of all. Good luck!

Adventures

Mallory

Maybe the most coveted line in the Chamonix valley representing the pinnacle in steep and committing skiing, all with a perfect view of the town of Chamonix.

Gervasutti Couloir, Tacul

One of Chamonix's most famous and sought after steep descents; sustained and an immaculate ski line.

Frendo Spur

This highly sought after mountaineering line is perhaps the most aesthetic ski line on the North Face of the Midi.

Whymper Couloir Ski

An iconic, sought after and serious line on one of the greatest peaks in the Alps.