First Steps Toward Independence

Nico, Anne-So, Denis and Aurélie, two couples who are friends, have come to discover the joys of the high mountains in the Écrins—and the basics of independent mountaineering for those (well, the one) who have already had a taste!

Day 1 — Glacier skills on the Glacier Blanc

We start with a skills session on the Glacier Blanc on the first afternoon, just to loosen up those crampons! We all gather at the hut that evening, and we’re certainly not alone: it’s the first fine summer weekend of the season. There’s quite a crowd, but a very friendly one!

Day 2 — Pic du Glacier d’Arsine traverse

We set off at first light… The rope teams scatter across the mountains and, before long, we’re completely on our own! Today’s plan is the Pic du Glacier d’Arsine traverse, a lovely early-season route. I’m roped up with Anne-So and Nico. Denis takes his first steps leading a rope team, with Aurélie. With no major difficulties, this route is ideal for practising…

The weather is on its best behaviour, and we’re certainly not complaining!

After reaching the summit, we continue along the ridge to the bump near the Pic du Glacier Blanc. A snow ridge, short sections of climbing and downclimbing: playful and varied!

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