A family introduction to mountaineering on Glacier Blanc and Pic d’Arsine: two days learning together, finding our feet and sharing a summit in the Écrins.
After the small-group outing with Audrey and Fabrice, I meet a cheerful team at the Glacier Blanc hut: Kom, Pascal, Christophe, Gaby, Jens and Pierre-Yves.
For some, this family introduction to mountaineering is a chance to refresh old memories. For others, it is an entirely new experience!
Day 1 — Learning through play on Glacier Blanc
Everyone quickly finds their feet on the ice… and the younger members soon start looking for more! Another hour and I would have found them hanging from their axes on the overhangs…
Rather than chasing performance, we set off on a playful, educational “stroll” across Glacier Blanc.
The rope is not just there to look good! We take time to understand its role and practise moving as a roped team, including stopping our companions’ slips… Ring any bells?
Day 2 — Pic d’Arsine as a family
After a short night, we head for Pic d’Arsine, a summit so well suited to an introduction to mountaineering.
The group splits into two roped teams, while I move around them to offer advice and take photos. Conditions are excellent, so we enjoy a few more challenging variations.
The ascent gives us the chance to explore different ways of belaying and moving over varied terrain. The snow supports almost everyone nicely… All that remains is to claim our summit, once again entirely to ourselves!
Pure happiness…
A misplaced crampon on the descent leaves Pierre-Yves with a few reminders of the day, fortunately nothing serious.
Practical Info / Route Topo
Day 1 — Glacier Blanc as a family
- Learning or refreshing crampon technique, practising movement as a roped team and understanding the rope’s role.
Day 2 — Pic d’Arsine
- Climbing in two roped teams, exploring variations suited to the group and learning different movement and belaying techniques.
Client Testimonials (0)
No testimonials yet. Did you join this outing? Leave your review!
Write a review
Share your experience of this adventure. Access restricted to participants.
Want to experience this type of adventure?
Contact me to plan your custom high-mountain project.
Contact me
