Accompanied by a mountain guide, you’ll experience the unique thrill of roped-up walking on a glacier, in a rocky, glacial environment of rare intensity. This introductory tour is particularly suited to those who wish to explore the world of mountaineering without tackling an exposed ridge or a more challenging route. One of the great advantages of the Col d’Entrèves is precisely that it offers a genuine immersion in high-altitude conditions, whilst remaining accessible to participants in good physical condition, even without prior experience of crampons.
Throughout the day, you’ll traverse the glaciers of the Géant basin in a striking high-mountain atmosphere. The pace is tailored to the group’s ability, allowing ample time to get kitted out, understand the glacial terrain, learn the basics of progression and fully enjoy the panoramic views. This outing can be seen as an introduction to glacier mountaineering, a first glacier trek, or simply as a contemplative and memorable adventure at over 3,500 metres above sea level. The standard route advertised by the competitor’s offer takes a total of 6 to 7 hours, including 3 to 4 hours of strenuous walking, with access to high altitude from Pointe Helbronner (3,462 m) to Col d’Entrèves (3,527 m).
Why choose the Col d’Entrèves?
The Col d’Entrèves is a particularly interesting route for exploring glacial terrain in the best possible conditions. It offers a spectacular high-mountain atmosphere without requiring the technical commitment of a major alpine climb. It is therefore an excellent option for:
- a first glacier hike;
- an introduction to using crampons;
- an introduction to roped progression;
- a day at altitude in the Mont Blanc massif;
- an outing led by a UIAGM guide / high-mountain guide.
Indicative programme for the day
After meeting your guide, you’ll head to the starting point for the ascent to high altitude. The most classic route begins at Pointe Helbronner, above Courmayeur, then crosses the Glacier du Géant towards the Col d’Entrèves. Once kitted out with safety equipment, you’ll make your way across the glacier at your own pace, amidst an exceptional glacial landscape. Up there, the sense of space, the proximity of the Mont Blanc peaks and the light on the glaciers offer a timeless experience. A break at the pass allows you to take in the views before returning via the same route.
Who is this glacier hike aimed at?
This experience is aimed at:
- beginners wishing to discover the high mountains;
- regular hikers in good physical condition;
- people drawn to Mont Blanc and glacial landscapes;
- active families with teenagers, subject to the minimum age specified on your page.
The highlights of the experience
- A genuine introduction to high-altitude mountaineering without any challenging ridge traverses.
- An accessible glacier walk for a first roped-up experience.
- An exceptional setting in the Mont Blanc massif with views of the great peaks.
- Professional supervision by a high-mountain guide, with an educational, safe and friendly approach.
- An ideal activity in a private group for a tailor-made experience.
