Arete des Cosmiques
Starting from the Aiguille du Midi (3842m), the Cosmiques Arete is a diverse climb set against the magnificent high-altitude landscapes of the Mont Blanc massif. After descending the ridge of the Aiguille du Midi, the route begins near the Cosmiques Refuge (3613m), easily reached by a gentle glacier walk. The Cosmiques Arete combines rock and snow terrain, rappels, short climbing sections, and the infamous 5-meter crack on a smooth granite wall.
The variety of the route and the exceptional views of Mont Blanc and the Vallée Blanche make the Cosmiques Arete a must for any mountaineers. Depending on snow conditions, the route can be tackled with or without crampons. The Cosmiques Ridge is the most renowned ridge climb in the Mont Blanc Massif, concluding with an unusual final section that leads you to the terrace of the Aiguille du Midi. It is suitable for those looking to initiate themselves into mixed ridge climbing and as an added bonus the route can generally be climbed in almost any condition!