I'm heading out to Chamonix in January for a week of snowboarding. However, I'm also interested in a couple of days on snowshoes to put in my IML application. I have used snowshoes before to access climbing routes in the high mountains after heavy summer snowfall, but these fall outside of the requisite for IML winter days.
I also know the valley and surrounding mountains pretty well. I'm thinking that a summit like the Aiguillette du Posettes above Le Tour, accessed from Tre-le-Champ through the trees would be a good objective, returning back via the ski area. Also, the Aiguillette des Houches from the Brevent looks good. I basically don't want to go into any areas where avalanche risks are going to be high, so staying amongst the trees and on ridges would be best.
Has anyone got any good recommendations to a relative snowshoe novice who still none the less experienced in the mountains. I usually have crampons on my feet instead!!
The ohm ( http://www.ohm-chamonix.com/ ) at chamonix will have helpful advice nearer the time. They do know where there is avalanche risk and where it makes sense to showshoe. At the moment no one can predict (accurately!) January snow conditions.
I have a fair idea of avalanche awareness, coming at this from a mountaineering background. I will have a good look at the conditions while I'm there anyway.
Anyone have any other good routes? I will try to get hold of a book before I go, but it's all extra baggage and a map and a recommendation are lighter!!
This Cicerone guide might have some useful ideas for you? You could always get hold of it pre-trip and either copy a few pages or make notes to take with your map if the weight is really an issue.
I am an IML, and I work in the Pyrenees runnig snowshoe holidays throughout the winter. I also invite aspirant IMLs and those interested in winter skills, snowshoeing and avalanche risk assesments to come out and practice. I have my own accommodation and charge for bed, breakfast and evening meals but the tuition is free. Kev Albin
