Haute Route Ski Tour
The Haute Route is possibly the most famous ski tour in the world! An epic 6 day journey crossing spectacular terrain - a must for every ski mountaineer...
We have chosen the 'skiers Haute Route' as it offers better skiing and a higher chance of completion than the summer mountaineering route.
If the dates don't suit your group we are happy to make a bespoke trip for you.
Who is it for?
This Haute Route ski tour is ideal for you if you have done some day-touring before or are an experienced ski mountaineer. You should be capable of skiing in all snow types (powder, porridge, crust, hardpack). Also, you should be fit enough for 6 back to back days of hard work! We get straight into it, so it is important that you are sure your equipment, boots and legs are working well before we set off, or perhaps consider coming out a few days early for a refresher course.
Typical Itinerary
Saturday: Arrive in Chamonix and settle in to the chalet. We meet in the evening to discuss the weeks plans, do a kit-check etc.
Sunday Warm up skiing, avalanche transceiver training and kit checks followed by descent to the Argentiere glacier and short skin to the Argentiere mountain hut (45mins).
Monday An early start and ascent to the col du Chardonnet or col du Passon, followed by skiing to the Trient hut (4.5 hours uphill).
Tuesday After a fantastic ski down the north facing vallee d'Arpette, we take a taxi from Champex to Verbier. We then use the lift systems to access another great descent from Mont Fort. Another skin up the Rosablanche leads to a ski to the Prafleuri hut (3-4 hours uphill). A great day!
Wednesday We travel over the col des Roux and then traverse and climb to the Dix hut (5-6hours total).
Thursday Climb up the Pigne d'Arolla and ski down to the superbly positioned Vignettes hut. A long skin up (5 hours) followed by stunning views and a great ski descent...
Friday An early start. We cross 3 cols before skiing down the stunning slopes of the Stockli glacier leading under the Matterhorn to Zermatt. One of the best days skiing in the Alps. (10-12 hours total). We return to Chamonix and stay in our chalet this evening.
Saturday: Departure
What to expect from mountain huts
They are basic but comfortable. They can cater for vegetarians. Food is usually on a set menu basis (3 course in the evening, hot drink and bread/jam/cereal for breakfast). Often there is no running water and so you have to buy water to drink and wash with (no showers). You can usually buy tea, coffee, wine, beer, soft drinks, chocolate bars and snacks. Sleeping arrangements are normally dormitory style bunkbeds (eg 6 people on the bottom, 6 on the top) with blankets or duvets, so you don't need a sleeping bag. Huts provide slippers to be worn inside.
You can expect a good atmosphere and a stunning view!
Chalet Accommodation*
When staying in Chamonix, we stay in one of our comfortable Adventure Base Chalets, literally 6 minutes walk from the town centre's restaurants and bars. Breakfast and packed lunch are included leaving the evenings free for you to explore the delights of Chamonix.
Transport
As this itinerary can vary quite a lot if the weather is bad, we do not include transport between resorts etc. This way you only pay for what is needed.
Further information
Download the Info Pack for more information and please get in touch with any questions.
*Note: Chalet accommodation is not included if paying the 'Course Only' price.