Bruce made a quick trip to the Alps in late August, unfortunately coinciding with a spell of rather unstable weather. With a bit of "ducking and dodging" (crossing into Italy and the Mont Blanc Massif's rain shadow) we did manage some good climbing. We started with the Gran Paradiso.

Hiking up to the Chabod hut. We just managed to arrive ahead of the rain.

The Gran Paradiso from just below the hut. New snow from the last couple days dusts the peak.

The weather on our summit day was generally sunny.

Clouds rising from the south add drama.

Almost to the top.

Bruce on the rocky summit of the Gran Paradiso.

Descending.

On our third day, we chose a "relaxing" option, the fun, but quite exposed Via Ferrata Curalla, near the town of Passy. Here, Bruce negotiates the Pont de Varan.

About two thirds the way along. Small footholds, but great hands.

The final moves to the top.

For our last day we chose the Traverse of the Aiguilles Crochues, in the Aiguilles Rouges.

Unfortunately, a training injury, exacerbated by the big climb of the Gran Paradiso, made all the hiking up to the Crochues rather painful. With prudence the better part of valor, we descended back into the valley, in search of short approaches.

Climbers on Pointe Gaspard.

Almost back to the Index lift and our ride down into the valley.

After an enjoyable pizza in Chamonix, we spent a few hours rock climbing at Les Gaillands.

4 pitches up and only a 30 second approach from the car. Just what the doctor ordered.