Kyle, of upstate New York fame, made a quick trip to Chamonix to climb Mont Blanc.

He times his climb well. The day before, the weather was poor and it snowed quite a bit up high.

Looking down on the Tête Rousse hut.

Arriving at the old Gouter hut. Lots of new snow.

Looking down on a party just beginning there descent.

2:00 am breakfast. The teams gather outside the Gouter hut.

It was still dark by the time we got to the Vallot hut at 4362 meters.

A bit higher on the Ridge and the sunrise colors begin to appear.

One of many other teams on the peak this day.

While the skies were blue, the winds were fierce.

Looking down on the Arête des Bosses.

Hard icy pellets of blowing snow.

Still Kyle manages a smile.

On the summit of Mont Blanc.

This photo, taken on the way down, shows the typical impression of the day.

In spite of the winds, it was a busy day for Mont Blanc.

Looking back up towards the summit as we descend past the Refuge Vallot.

One last view of the Arête des Bosses.

Climbers heading up the Dome du Gouter. The Aiguille Bionnassay behind.

Almost back to the Gouter hut.

And finally, a quick stop before heading down to Nid d'Aigle, the train, cable car and home.