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South Ridge from Refuge Albert 1er

2A | PD | II Edit route
Approach Time
1-2 h
Ascent Time
4-6 h
Descent Time
3-4 h
The south ridge is a documented alpine route on the peak and is generally considered a variation or alternative line to the normal ascent. It combines glacier approach with a steeper upper section than the standard route. The route is still in the moderate alpine range, but it can involve more exposed scrambling and mixed terrain depending on conditions. Crevasses on the glacier approach remain a significant concern. Snow and ice conditions on the ridge strongly influence the difficulty. It is less straightforward than the normal route and requires more confidence on exposed alpine terrain.

Route Outline

Refuge Albert 1er -> Glacier du Tour
Reach the Col du Tour area
Follow the south ridge and upper mixed slopes
Summit of Aiguille du Tour
Descend by the normal route or the ascent line

More routes on Aiguille du Tour

Normal Route from Refuge Albert 1er

2A | PD | II
Approach Time
1-2 h
Ascent Time
4-6 h
Descent Time
3-4 h
This is the standard and best-known route on Aiguille du Tour. It is a classic alpine snow-and-ice ascent with straightforward route-finding in good conditions. The main objective hazards are glacier travel, crevasses, and possible rockfall or unstable snow on the upper slopes. The route is usually climbed from Refuge Albert 1er, which gives direct access to the glacier. Difficulty is generally moderate, but conditions can change the seriousness significantly. It is commonly used as an introductory 3500 m alpine summit in the Mont Blanc Massif.
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