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Traversée de la Meije

5B | TD+/ED1 | V/VI Edit route
The Traversée de la Meije is one of the most celebrated alpine traverses in France and includes the summit of La Meije. It is a long, complex ridge journey with multiple towers, gaps, and exposed passages. The route combines scrambling, climbing, and route-finding on very airy terrain. It is highly committing and usually requires excellent conditions and efficient movement. The traverse is a major classic of the Écrins and is extensively documented in guidebooks and climbing literature. Because of its length and complexity, it is more serious than the individual ridge lines alone.

Route Outline

Approach to the east side / Brèche sector
Climb the ridge system across the Meije summits
Traverse the main crest and subsidiary points
Reach the summit of La Meije
Descend toward the normal descent line or bivouac/hut

More routes on La Meije

Arête du Promontoire

5B | TD+/ED1 | V/VI
A classic and serious alpine route on La Meije, following the prominent Promontoire ridge on the mountain’s south-west side. It is a long mixed climb with sustained scrambling and climbing on rock, snow, and ice. The route is exposed and requires solid route-finding, especially in poor visibility. Objective hazards include rockfall, loose rock, and changing snow/ice conditions. It is generally considered one of the standard ways to climb the peak, but it is not a beginner’s ascent. The route is documented in major alpine guidebooks and is one of the best-known lines on the mountain.
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Arête du Doigt

5B | TD+/ED1 | V/VI
The Arête du Doigt is a famous and highly aesthetic ridge route on La Meije. It is more technical and exposed than a simple snow climb, with sustained alpine rock climbing and mixed terrain. The line is narrow and committing, with significant exposure on both sides. Conditions on the ridge strongly affect difficulty, especially where snow or verglas is present. It is a well-documented classic in the Écrins and is regarded as a major mountaineering objective. The route demands good movement on rock and careful protection management.
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