The northwest ridge is a documented alpine route on Mont Vélan and is more technical than the normal route. It is a ridge climb with mixed terrain, typically involving snow, rock, and exposed sections. The route is more committing than the standard ascent and requires solid route-finding. Conditions on the ridge can change the difficulty substantially, especially with snow or verglas. It is suitable for experienced alpinists comfortable on exposed alpine ridges. Because of its mixed character, it is generally less straightforward than the southwest ridge.
Route Outline
Approach from the north side of Mont Vélan
Gain the northwest ridge from the glacier or upper snowfields
Follow the ridge over mixed snow and rock terrain
Continue to the summit ridge and summit
Descend by the chosen route, often the normal route if conditions allow
