Jeff, from Colorado, joined Mark for 6 days of climbing in the Chamonix area. Though Jeff used to climb a great deal, it had been quite some time since his last alpine adventures.

We started off with a traverse of the Aiguille Crochues, in the Aiguilles Rouges.

The shark fin-like profile of the Crochues. The route begins at the sharp notch in the left of the photo.

Climbing on the Crochues with Mont Blanc in the background.

Typical climbing on the Crochues. Though not overly difficult, the route is often nicely exposed.

The final exit ridge.

Looking northeast. On the left is the Aiguille du Belvédère (yes, those are people on the summit). The Aiguille de Tête Plate in the center and the Aiguille des Chamois

The view of Lac Blanc, on the descent.

For our second day, we increased the difficulty somewhat, climbing a route called Cocher-cochon on the Clocher de Planpraz

Jeff cruises through the first 6a crux.

High above the valley.

On pitch 6.

The final 6a pitch, from the summit of the Clocher.

On day 3, we ventured into the high mountains. We climbed Arête Lawrence and the Arête des Cosmiques.

Jeff on the Arête Lawrence.

More of the Arête "Lolo".

...and continuing on the Cosmiques.

Arête des Cosmiques.

On day 4 we fancied a bit of ice climbing on the Petite Aiguille Verte. We climbed the left side of the face, up to the Demi Lune, then traversed the peak, east to west. Mouse over to see the line.

Excellent conditions, if you like it a bit icy.

Jeff in the Demi Lune.

Almost to the summit.

A last little bit of rock to the top.

Jeff on the summit of the Petite Verte.

Downclimbing on the normal route.

And one final bit of ice to get to the easy glacier below.

On the 5th day, we climbed the South Ridge of the Index.

Adding a few more "spicy" variations. This pitch, a harder alternative to the second, gets a smile.

Our last day was a traverse of the Aiguille d'Entrèves. Riding the new Monte Bianco Skyway from Italy.

Kathy joined us for this day. Unfortunately we were in cloud most of the day. Looking back at point Helbronner.

The view to the north looked a bit better. You can see the cloud blowing in from Italy.

Quite nice to the Northeast.

But the Entrèves remained in the cloud most of the day.

Another party on the summit ridge.

Jeff and Kathy ready to go.

Exposed climbing on the Entrèves.

Kathy on the Entrèves.

Almost to the summit.

Jeff arrives at the summit of the Entrèves.

Downclimbing off the top.

A last view west towards Monte Bianco.