Wrapping up the schussin’ season on Neige Cordier & les Dômes de Monetier: Ecrins, as per usual...

Big pretty forecast, stable spring snow, game on! Olivier nearly couldn’t join us after his neighbor locked him out of his apartment and peaced out to Alsace, but fortunately he was able to execute a stealthy break in and swipe his ski gear at the last minute.

Our adventure began on Friday night with a 2-hour hike in ski boots up to the refuge de l’Alpe above Villar d’Arène in the fog (photos not shown). We’ve been wanting to complete a grand loop in the Ecrins all season, and finally were able to make it happen: up the north ridge of Neige Cordier, down the south side to the Refuge du Glacier Blanc, then up to the Dômes de Monetier and back to Monêtier-les-Bains via the Col des Grangettes and some sheisty billy goating through the most extensive avy debris I've ever seen.

Also we got back on steep snow for the first time since Hill’s accident (just over a year ago) and she sent it with style and ease… 

Hillary and Olivier enjoying the magic hour after an early wakeup. 

We went up the couloir on the right and then up the ridge to Neige Cordier (3614m).

Emerging from the E couloir and starting up the ridge.

I wish that arête never ended... definitely the best part of the route. 

For 19 euros, a room with a view. 

Gettin' it on the Couloir du Col Jean Gauthier - AD. 

Despite appearances, sometimes we do partake in downhill skiing. 

On the Dômes de Monêtier summit plateau - pas mal là haut!

Grenoble Proximity Freeriders on the summit, minus Ian this time.