Laura Tenner joined Mark for 4 days of training and climbing in the Chamonix area. Our main objective was to work on some of the technical skills appropriate for more difficult treks and climbs.

In addition to "pushing the limits" of mental comfort, we also enjoyed exploring some of the treasures of the Mont Blanc Massif.

Starting with basics, we spent our first day at the local Chamonix crag, Les Gaillands. Working on movement skills, and also belaying, cleaning and rappeling, we finished with a 4-pitch climb up the Grand Gaillands.

On day two we were up on the glaciers, climbing the North Ridge of the Petit Flambeau. Here, we have just stepped off the glacier and are about to start the rocky portion of the ascent.

This photo, taken from the Aiguille du Midi on our last day, shows the Petit Flambeau. The Grand Flambeau has its head in the clouds to the right.

Mouse over to see the clockwise loop of the route.

Typical climbing on the North Ridge. Blocky but exposed.

And the final snow ridge. Good steps in the snow, with ice for protection on the right.

One our third day we went to the Mer de Glace. We needed a bit more training and practice in the crampons, and also some more instruction and practice with crampons on rock.

This is the start of the long series of ladders, leading from the trail down to the ice.

Laura starts down the ladders.

After a rather long walk, we arrive at the main training area on the Mer de Glace. We wandered up hill and down dale.

Returning to Montenvers at the end of the day.

For our last day, we took the cable car up the Aiguille du Midi. Our original plan had included a climb of the Arete Laurence. However, uncertain weather and a forecast of early thunderstorms suggested a slightly less committing objective.

This is the start of the extraordinary ridge leading from the Aiguille du Midi down to the lower angled parts of the glacier below.

Seen from above, this view shows the start of the Midi-Plan traverse, and our "wander" for the day.

Mouse over to see the line.

The light was magical. Shredded clouds partially obscured the view but added mystery to the scene.

Pausing for a moment after descending the steepest part of the ridge.

We wander out towards the Aiguille du Plan.

Returning to the Aiguille du Midi, we have just a bit more climbing ahead of us.

Cloud building over Italy and the massifs.