Mountaineering Aiguille de l'Index

The traverse of the Aiguille de l’Index (2595m) is a magnificent route starting from the Flégère lifts and offering breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc Massif. After a short walk, the traverse begins properly upon reaching the southeast ridge of the Index. The fun climb (French grade 4 max) on excellent, occasionally polished rock, mixes all styles: dihedral, crack, and face climbing. A few downclimbing steps complete this ascent, which ends with a short airy ridge. From the summit, the panorama is stunning, stretching from the Glacier du Tour to Mont Blanc, with a sense of exposure on both sides. The descent is via abseil, followed by a walk above the Index couloir, allowing a smooth return to the lifts.

The traverse of the Aiguille de l’Index is a superb half-day introduction to mountaineering, intended for individuals with prior climbing experience. It offers a truly comprehensive experience. In winter, this traverse transforms into a remarkable mixed route in the sunny setting of the Aiguilles Rouges. The snow allows for an extended climb by starting the southeast ridge from its base. In this form, we particularly recommend it to those with prior mountaineering experience as an introduction to winter mountaineering on a full-day outing.