Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe, rises out of Chamonix, France. Mont Blanc has snow and ice coverage year round and requires the use of some technical equipment. However, the climb is not overly strenuous, depending on the route you take. Come prepared with your cold weather gear and plan to stay a few days for the richest experience.
Instructions
1. Take the most popular route, the Gouter Route, by riding the Bellevue cable car from Les Houches and the Tramway du Mont Blanc to Nid d'Aigle.
2. Make the 5-hour hike from Nid d'Aigle to the Gouter Refuge, where you will need to book in advance to stay the night.
3. From the Gouter Refuge, continue the next day up the Bosse ridge to the summit. This is the easiest and most popular route.
4. Take the more challenging Cosmiques Route by taking the cable car to Aguille du Midi. Then go down the Aguille du Midi arete to the glacier du Tacul. It's an easy 1-hour hike to the Cosmique Refuge.
5. Ascend the Mont Blanc du Tacul to the summit the next day, which can be difficult due to the recent opening of crevasses and the exposure of rocky terrain.
6. Find more information about ascents in winter that involve skiing or snowboarding down. While they can be dangerous, ski descents are extremely popular and there are several routes to take.
7. Consider hiking with a guide if you have no experience hiking on ice and snow. While some guides can be pricy, they will often arrange your accommodations in Chamonix and in the mountain huts.
8. Bring an ice axe, crampons, a short rope and at least one carabiner to stay connected to your climbing partners. All hiking equipment can be obtained in Chamonix.
9. Stay in Chamonix for at least 1 day before and after your summit to acclimatize, enjoy the town and stock up on food, water and gear. Chamonix is a lovely resort town in winter and summer, so plan your accommodations well in advance.
Tags: Mont Blanc, Aguille Midi, Gouter Refuge, most popular, most popular route, popular route
