Mer de glace

INTRODUCTION

The Mer de Glace or 'Sea of Ice' is one of the most well-known glaciers in the Alps. Its source begins at around 3700m of altitude in the Midi basin and flows down in the direction of Chamonix to around 1500m.

Equipped with crampons, a harness and ice axes, your guide will lead you to one of the most beautiful phenomenon on earth. Marvel at the sea of ice, see crevasses and even have a go at ice climbing.

Whether alone with the guide, together with family or friends, it is an ideal introduction for a first experience in a High Mountain environment.

PROGRAM

Meeting in front of the Montenvers Train Station in Chamonix.

Train ride to Montenvers at 1930m of altitude (30 mins).

A walking path will take us to the equipped section (ladders, cables and chains) and descend onto the glacier (30mins to 1hr). Initially, the glacier is covered with scree and stones and a short walk will take us onto the ice. We will crampon up and take the direction of the Moulins where a canyon like formation has been eroded by the torrent which disappears into the heart of the glacier (40 mins).

Here, we can do some ice climbing or continue in the direction of the junction with the Leschaux glacier. Here the glacier is quite chaotic and is understandable why the glacier gets its name. A bit of ice climbing here for approximately 1 hour before returning to Montenvers.

It takes about 5/6 hours of walking for the longer trek, or about 4 hours when stopping off at Les Moulins.

FOR WHO - LEVEL

For good hikers that can perform a 4h-5h walk.

For adults and children from 12 years old.

EQUIPMENT

You will need a return ticket for the Montenvers train.

technical equipment	clothes	additional equipment
rucksack	mountaineering trousers	sunglasses, goggles
crampons	fleece or equivalent	sun cream
harness	gaiters if possible	food & beverage
walking poles	windproof long sleeve jacket	camera
ice axe	gloves
helmet	balaclava, beanie
mountain boots