KM
6
TOPHEIGHT
3.842 m
HIKING COSMIQUES RIDGE I FRANCE
2004 - Amazing Chamonix Classic climb, ideal introduction to mixed climbing. It is preferable to climb the ridge between June to September depending on snow conditions. This is the perfect area to gain experience for the Mont Blanc climb as you can test climb & rope techniques, pitching tent in snow, snow ridge trekking, ...
BEST TIME
The Cosmiques Arete is a spectacular climb that starts and ends at the Aiguille du Midi. The ascend offers varied climbing on snow, rock and ice. Stepping out through the ice tunnel at the top of the Aiguille du Midi, you will traverse an extremely exposed ridgeline with breathtaking views in all directions. There are some challenging sections but all are short and anyone with previous climbing experience should not find them to be too much trouble.
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CONDITIONS
Climbing the Arete des Cosmiques is a fantastic day in one of the most spectacular parts of the Mont Blanc Massif - you'll cross glacial terrain, climb up granite slabs and scale icy couloirs surrounded by towering peaks.
Climbing the Cosmiques Ridge takes about half a day, you will start early in the morning and finish early in the afternoon. Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car up to the summit and then start the approach, which is a short 20-30 minute glacier hike; the route finishes back at the Aiguille du Midi lift station.
TECHNICAL INFO
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Difficulty rating: AD, 4a (4c crux)
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Elevation min/max: 3550 m / 3842 m
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Height difference: +300 m / -300 m
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Difficulties height difference: 240 m
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Difficulties start altitude: 3600 m
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