FULL WALKTHROUGH! Climbing the Arête des Cosmiques | Classic Alpine Ridge from the Aiguille du Midi скачать в хорошем качестве

FULL WALKTHROUGH! Climbing the Arête des Cosmiques | Classic Alpine Ridge from the Aiguille du Midi

Starting high above the valley floor at Aiguille du Midi, the Arête des Cosmiques is one of the most famous alpine ridge climbs in Chamonix. Short, exposed, and incredibly scenic, it offers a true alpine experience almost directly from the lift. This video begins by showing the descent down the arete from the Aiguille du Midi top station and the approach across the glacier toward the ridge. From there, the route is followed all the way along the Cosmiques arete, moving over narrow snow ridges, mixed rock sections, and airy granite steps with spectacular exposure above the Mont Blanc Massif. The Cosmiques arete is known for its variety. Along the ridge you’ll encounter knife edge sections, short rock steps, and mixed terrain where snow, ice, and granite meets. Several of the trickier passages are clearly documented in this video, including the two rappels and the technical crux section. During our climb we ended up using little to no gear other than being roped up with about 10 meters between us on the ridge itself, as the climbing is relatively easy. However, the terrain is highly exposed and the consequences of a fall are significant. Move according to your own experience, comfort level, and the conditions on the day. Fortunately, multiple fixed belay stations exist along the more technical sections of the route. And there are plenty of possible placement options for gear. These make it possible to manage the climb safely with a rope if desired, especially for the rappels and the crux section. There are two 20 m ish rappels both with good anchorpoints. Recommended Equipment Personal Gear • Mountaineering/ski boots (crampon compatible) • Crampons • Ice axe (ski axe is enough) • Helmet • Harness • Belay device (ATC/Reverso style) • 3–4 locking carabiners • Personal anchor system or sling • Alpine clothing suitable for changing mountain weather • Gloves (thin climbing gloves + warmer pair) Ropes • Two 30 m ropes or one 60 m rope (sufficient for the rappels) Light Alpine Rack • Set of mid-size cams (0.5–2 range) • Set of nuts • 4–6 alpine draws (extendable quickdraws) • 2–3 120 cm slings Glacier Travel Kit • Prusik cords or mechanical ascender • 1–2 ice screws • Extra locking carabiners • Tibloc or micro-traxion • Small pulley (optional but helpful) Additional Useful Items • Small alpine backpack • Headlamp (early starts are common) • Navigation/GPS or phone with route information • Sunglasses and sunscreen • Water and energy food While many experienced climbers move quickly along the ridge, the Cosmiques Arête remains a serious alpine environment where conditions can change quickly and the exposure is constant. This route is often described as one of the best introductions to alpine ridge climbing, combining manageable technical difficulty with incredible scenery and real mountain exposure. If you enjoy classic alpine lines and dramatic views, the Arête des Cosmiques is an unforgettable way to experience the high mountains above Chamonix. Thanks for watching, and enjoy the climb. 🏔️ Remember to like and subscribe 🔔 #backcountry #aiguilledumidi #alpinisme #chamonix #chamonixmontblanc #climbing #arete #des ##cosmiques #winterclimbing #mountains #frenchalps