CHAMONIX ICE/ROCK

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Where do we find some easier,multi pitch ice routes in Chamonix? We are going to Chamonix in the second half of april and want to do some ice climbing(too).Looking for routes up to 70-75 degrees,multi pitch,things you can do on half a day and relatively safe.Is there something near any cablecar station? Rock:What are the conditions on the S.face of the midi this time of year?What about temperatures?How long/short are the days?(light) Any suggestions on rock routes to tray?(up to D or french 5)

-- KAsp (bodo@xpartner.no), February 03, 2000

Answers

What about the Chere Couloir. It's near the Aiguille Du Midi cable car station (about 1 hour walk), is about 4 pitches long and is usually in condition. Belays are mostly in place (bolts) and you can abseil back down the route.

As for rock routes, again look at the Aiguille Du Midi South Face, and also the Aiguille Du M. There are loads of possibilities. Also look for a book called Chamonix cragging.

The weather in April will be OK if it is sunny. Quite warm but the nights will obviously be cooler, especially at altitude.

-- Arthur C Clarke (charltonchestwig@netscape.com), February 17, 2000.


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