Doug Martin took advantage of a business trip to Europe, to stop by and check out our off-piste and ski touring this year. It was good to see him again after many years; we had climbed together way back in our days working for the American Alpine Institute.

Doug's first day was forecast to be beaufiul, so we headed right up onto the Vallée Blanche.

Not even very crowded! Valley fog hiding Chamonix below.

Creamy, buttery, lots of good words for this snow.

Looking up at the Drus from low on the route.

On day 2 we headed up the Crochues-Berard traverse, which always delivers. The forecast was for weather coming in, but so far it's a bluebird day.

High on the ridge heading for the "Brêche".

As we neared our high point the fog caught up with us at last. So, sadly, we got no photos of the descent, but you can trust us it was fun! We hope Doug will find future excuses to stop by on more business trips. Thanks, Doug!