A great return trip up a very shapely peak

Statistics

6 - 7

hrs

1,476

m

1,476

m

37

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Moderate

Description

Had this peak been in a more popular part of the Alps it would be a lot busier than it is, enjoying as it does stunning views from the summit of Italy to the S and E, and France to the N and W.

It is a big day out, with about 1400m of ascent from the hut, once you have dropped down slightly to begin with, and quite a bit of horizontal distance to be covered as well.

Fortunately for speed of travel, in recent years it has become a non-glaciated route, so you can travel relatively light.

Crampons might be needed on the top ridge, which faces SW, but only if it has been windy or not snowed for a while and hence a bit icy.

Ask the hut guardian for an up to date condition report.

Even if the top ridge is unsuitable for skinning you can usually walk up with only ski poles for security, as there is likely to be a track in. From the hut follow the footpath (which is usually snow free by spring) in the reverse of your descent yesterday.

Today you are heading SSW, rather than WSW, up the Ruisseau d’Oney, which is an easier and less steep route.

Your ascent is shaded from afternoon sun by the Crête de Valletaz, so the snow is usually good in the valley.

This leads you all the way up to the Col d'Arbéron, from where the obvious ridge leads to the top.

You return the same way, but in very good conditions, for strong skiers, you can ski down the NW Face.