Aiguilles Rouges

Introduction

Simply an amazing collection of gorgeous granite summits along the south side of the Chamonix Valley. Approaches range from 10 minutes to one hour and the possibilities seem endless. Classic lines include the Frison Roche on the Brevent, any routes on the Aiguille l'Index, Chapelle Gliere, or Clocher-Clochetons. Many of the routes are also reatured in Rebuffat's Mont Blanc Massif: 100 Classic Climbs. Most of the routes can be approached from either the Le Brevent or Flegere lifts. Among the summits in this range: Aiguilles Crochures Chappele de la Glière Aiguille Encreenaz Aiguille de l'Index: La Grande Floria Le Brevent Tete Plate

Gear, etc

Twin 50m ropes, 12 draws, a small set of nuts and cams in the 1-2.5 range, and a few slings will enable you to climb just about anything in the Aiguilles Rouges. Of course a helmet is also recommended. Many routes can be approached in Teva sandals but a pair of normal approach shoes is better for some of the walkoffs. These routes can be quite crowded in the summer so get there early and move quick. Also, you'll see lots of stupid and dangerous things occur at the overcrowded belay stands. Climb safe and wear a helmet.

Guide Books, etc

The best guide books for the area are: In French: Les Aiguilles Rouges; Escalade au Soleil Thomas Dulac and Godeefroy Perroux Available in Chamonix or via Amazon.fr In English: The Mont Blanc Range Topo Guide Michael Piola Not as complete as the book listed first but does include some good topos.

Camping, Gites, Eats, and Sheets

Camping Close to the train station: Grass, no frills. Like a United Nations of climbers spot: Les Arolles T: +33 (0)4 50 53 14 30 F: +33 (0)4 50 53 14 30 Hostel/Gite situation on west end of town (with built-in pub) : (Mainly English speaking crowd) Run by Irishman from Wessex: Le Vagabond 365, av Ravanel le Rouge 74400 Chamonix T: +33 (0)4 50 53 15 43 F: +33 (0)4 50 53 15 43 www.gitevagabond.com Hostel/Gite 500m east of Gare SNCF (Train station) (Mainly continental european crowd): Le Chamoniard Volant 45 route de la Frasse 74400 Chamonix T: +33 (0)4 50 53 14 09 F: +33 (0)4 50 53 23 25 www.chamoniard.com Groceries available all over Chamonix but the best are: Alimentation Generale, Rue Aiguille du Midi Chamonix Saturday Farmer's Market Casino under the Hotel Alpina

Additions and CorrectionsPost an Addition or Correction

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Ross Hitchman - Aug 23, 2005 6:45 am - Hasn't voted

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fyi
Topos to climbs on Le Brevent can be found in "Crag Climbs in Chamonix" by Francois Burnier and Dominique Potard, Published by Vamos, 2001. (In English).

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