David Ries added a few days to his Val d'Isere ski vacation and joined Mark for some off and on piste skiing in Chamonix.

Our plan was to meet in Val d'Isere, jump in the car and drive to La Rosiere, some 40 minutes distance. From there, David and Mark would ski into Italy, via the liaison between the Rosiere and La Thuile ski areas. Meanwhile, Kathy would drive the car back to Chamonix, through the Mont Blanc tunnel and meet our heroes in La Thuile. Another quick drive to La Palud, a ride up the cable car to Point Helbronner, and, in theory, a Vallee Blanche descent into Chamonix.

All went well until the weather closed in over the high mountains. The Vallee Blanche was all together too blanche, and we scrapped that portion of the day's plan.

Our second day also proved to be somewhat problematic, weather wise. We spent it largely in the fog at the Grands Montets. Visibility was in and out, but we did manage a couple of runs off the top lift, enjoying the new snow when we could see it. Finding our lunch locale at the Chalet Refuge de Lognan was actually quite difficult in the pea soup fog.

Our last day, however was spectacular. And it is from this day alone that I have any photos!

David on the summit of the Aiguille du Midi in perfect weather.

Starting down the upper part of the Vallee Blanche. We chose the Envers des Aiguilles route, dropping down on the shady side of the Petit Rognon.

The Grandes Jorasses and the Rochefort ridge in the background.

David and the NE side of Mont Blanc du Tacul.

Taking a breather on the descent along side the Petit Rognon.

We had a nice lunch at the Requin hut before continuing.

Another group rounds the little ridge just above the hut.

Negotiating the boulders at Montenvers. Fortunately, there was not too much of this.