A Couple of days ski touring.

4 Blokes, 3 Huts, 2 Days, 2000+ vertical meters. .

 Rob and Ben have been back in La Rosiere for 6 weeks, hoping for fun, adventure and powder skiing. Unfortunately the snow has not been great this season and they have only managed a couple of powder days. Now a distant memory. Still with the end of their holiday fast approaching something had to be done and a small ski tour adventure planned.

Setting out from Val d'Isere on friday afternoon, off they set with Rob D. leading them into the middle of no where. 2.30 hrs of effort in fantastic surroundings saw them approach the Refugee Fond de Four. this was to be home for the night. Skis stored and wet clothes changed, Ben took control of fire duty. This turned into his obsession for the trip. Within minutes the stove was roaring and the hut warming up. Time for tea.

A feast of lentils, noodles and soup was prepared. And never has it tasted so good.

The following morning Rob, Rob and Ben struck out and headed towards the Pointe Norde des Lores. Both Ben and Rob where amazed at the surroundings and confirmed themselves as convert ski tourers (as soon a a ski trip to Japan has been taken to fulfill the powder needs). The ski down the Pente des Lores was not the kindest but vows where made to return when the snow was better.

Back at the car and then a quick pit stop at Rob's house for food  and to meet up with Tim everyone headed towards Beaufort for the 2nd tour of the hut of the trip.

A short drive above Bourg St Maurice found us at Les Pars and the end of the road due to ice. So with everything on our backs we set off on foot.

After about 30mins of walking we found enough snow and ice cover to dump the trainers and start on the skis. A steady 2hr climb along the valley was all it took to reach the refuge La Balme

Again the familiar routine, wet clothes off, fire lit, and brew on before another feast ( lentils, noodles and soup for some.)

With only candles for light and Bob Dylan on the ipod it was not long before everyone turned in for the night.

The night was a little disturbed as 'Fire Starter' Ben was up all night making sure it was as hot as a sauna.

After breakfast and a clean up off we headed further up the valley. There were great views of La Pierra Menta. It took another hour of steady skiing to reach Refuge du Presset. From here the number of alternative routes and options was very apparent. That was until the clouds descended and the snow flakes started to fall. This signaled it was time to leave.

The descent was not as bad as we had all feared on the way up. With a bit of careful slope selection it was possible to get some nice turns in on spring snow. Looking at the snow pack the snow underneath the crust was completely unconsolidated and will pose a real danger when it next snows. It was also hard to ski when the crust did not hold your weight.

At the end of the day, a great bit of exploration in a new valley and a head full of new routes to do in the future. A great way to make the most of the weather and snow conditions, to still get out there and enjoy the mountains. The boys have definately earned a couple of rest days before heading home. 

Here's to the next  trip.