Chamonix Mountain Adventures. Hilary Sharp

3

      Aiguillette des Houches

Start/Finish	Le Bettey 1340m
Distance	10km
Time	5hr 30min–6hr
Terrain	The trails are all good but the arête is airy and the descent begins steeply.
High point	Aiguillette des Houches 2285m
Altitude gain	950m
Map	IGN Top 25 3531 ET Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
Parking	Le Bettey, on the road from Le Coupeau to La Flatière

      The Aiguillette des Houches, 2285m, forms part of the wonderful curved ridgeline that defines the southern end of the Aiguilles Rouges range before it plunges into the deep ravine of the Diosaz Gorge. It is situated at the far end of the Chamonix valley and enjoys uninterrupted views of Mont Blanc and associated glacial splendour, as well as the more distant limestone massifs – the Aravis and the Rocher des Fiz/Anterne.

      There are various routes to reach the summit and the one described here is reasonably arduous as it traverses the summit without taking advantage of the relatively nearby Brévent lift system. By going this way you can include the delightfully airy Pierre Blanche ridge, which adds a certain zest to the hike.

      High above the sea of cloud in the Arve valley, on the Aiguillette des Houches

      From Le Bettey go along the road towards La Flatière and be sure to look at the view from this idyllic spot. A path heads off right to Plan de la Cry signed as ‘Plan de la Cry par sentier’. Take this. The Pierre Blanche is signed left soon after and later left again. This trail goes north across a wooded hillside in a rising traverse. At a junction (straight ahead, signed to Montvauthier) go right up a pleasant trail in the woods. There is a light-coloured rock by the trail – is this the Pierre Blanche?

      This path takes you to the Pierre Blanche ridge at Pt 1687 on the IGN Top 25 map.

      Now the shoulder is followed, with extensive views down to the Diosaz Gorge on one side and towards the Mont Blanc massif on the other. The ridge leads to the summit of Aiguillette des Houches, with just one detour to the right (southern slopes) under the first high point.

      Once on the summit enjoy that 360° vista – this is a really special panorama.

      For the descent, head south in a series tight of zigzags, which soon give way to easier ground. Pleasant high meadows are descended to reach a sharp turn right (west) to the Chalets de Chailloux, where there will most likely be a big flock of sheep grazing. After the chalets the path goes into forest. At the path junction at 1782m choose the right-hand option signed to Plan de la Cry, which goes down to this hamlet. A quick descent past the houses and you’ll be back at the car.

       ROUTE 4

      Montagne de la Côte