A dangerously overhanging cornice clinging precariously to the summit of Mont de l'Etoile

To get a better idea of the danger, I estimate that the indentation below the snow was about one meter. Now, imagine that you're standing on the summit and decide to take a look over the edges, to see if there is an easy way down? Well, just a few minutes ago I was up there, a couple of meters from the edge, after having made my way up there from the other side. I had no idea how dangerous it was. But from where I was standing, I didn't quite trust it. And there was no need to investigate, for there were footsteps in the snow leading down from the summit to the left side. After following them down for a bit, the trail changed direction to traverse on the snow below these rocks. Imagine my surprise when I looked back a little later and saw this! At this point I'm on the NE ridge, still quite close to the summit. I took a few more pictures as I continued to descend; together they tell the story of a short but memorable and exhilarating descent. Click here for the next one. 11 March 2014.