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Northwest Ridge from Cabane des Vignettes

2A | PD | II Edit route
Approach Time
2-3 h
Ascent Time
4-6 h
Descent Time
3-4 h
This is the standard and best-known alpine route to Pigne d'Arolla. It is a classic glacier-and-snow climb with a short rocky section on the ridge near the top. The route is generally straightforward in stable conditions but requires normal glacier travel skills and crevasse awareness. The northwest ridge is usually climbed from the Cabane des Vignettes, which makes it a logical high base. Objective hazards include crevasses, snow instability, and poor visibility on the glacier. In late season the route can become more broken and more technical. It is commonly graded as a moderate alpine ascent rather than a difficult rock climb.

Route Outline

Cabane des Vignettes -> Col de Charmotane
Col de Charmotane -> Pigne d'Arolla northwest ridge
Follow the ridge and snow slopes to the summit
Descend by the ascent route to the hut

More routes on Pigne d'Arolla

Southwest Ridge from Cabane de Dix

2A | PD | II
Approach Time
3-4 h
Ascent Time
5-7 h
Descent Time
4-5 h
This is a documented alpine route on the mountain’s south side, typically approached from the Cabane de Dix. It is primarily a snow and glacier climb with route-finding on the upper mountain. The difficulties are usually moderate, but conditions can change the seriousness significantly. Crevasses and serac or snow-slope hazards may be present on the glacier approach. The upper ridge is generally less technical than a rock ridge but can be exposed in hard or icy conditions. It is a recognized mountaineering ascent rather than a trekking route.
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