Snowy start to the Alpine season
~ Friday, 3rd July 2009
My first week in the Alps this year was with David Tucker and Chris Alltree, both competent lads, with the Eiger in mind!
We acclimatised on Mt Blanc de Cheilon, near to Arolla in the Swiss Valais Alps. Conditions were very Scottish and we reached the winter summit.
Grindlewald proved to be even snowier, with access to the Monchjoch hut closed, possibly due to avalanche risk from he south face of the Monch. A quick head scratch and an appealing plan B was hatched!
An early lift from Saas Grund allowed us enjoy a delightful day on the Weissmiess. The following day was spent climbing the kilometre long south ridge of the Lagginhorn. Superb, AD in grade and very good value.
We returned to our base 
in Evolene in the Val d'Herens and enjoyed the full Evolene via ferratta on the last morning of the week. The situations are fantastic on this via ferratta, the local guides having done a brilliant job of rigging it.
Many thanks to Dave and Chris for a great week.
