Spring skiing from the Aiguilles du Midi
Spring storms keep the skiing going in Chamonix
Since Sunday evening we've had some pretty unstable weather here in Chamonix, lot's of rain in the valley has meant lot's of snow up high, almost 1m of fresh snow!
We headed over to the Midi early this morning in hopes of skiing either the Glacier Rond of the Cosmiques. After waiting around for a little bit for snow clearing, the lift opened at 9:15 and we were on our way. Going up it was obvious there was a strong east wind, spindrift was flying over the ridge, not good for the aspect we'd hoped to ski.
Going over the entrances to the Rond and Cosmiques it was obvious the with this wind it would be dangerous and difficult to get onto either slope. The Rond requires an exposed traverse and the Cosmiques several rappels, on top of that the chances of a windslab on both these slopes was high. Sometimes you just have to turn around, we stepped into our skis and set off down the mellow Vallee Blanche, skiing nice smooth packed powder.
Exploring beyond the ski resort boundaries is an amazing experience for anyone who's physically fit and has mastered the pistes well enough. There are, however, risks associated with venturing outside the safety of the marked/patrolled ski area, including awareness of your actions on those below you on the slopes. Mountain guides are professionally qualified and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain, to provide you with the safest and most enjoyable possible experience in the mountains; as a visitor here we highly recommend you hiring one. Many ski schools and also mountain guides provide instruction in off-piste skiing, avalanche safety and mountaineering techniques. Make your time in the mountains unforgettable for the right reasons, ski safe!
