Josh and Daniella, now living in Germany, but former residents of many far-flung locales, joined Mark for a one-day tour in the Chamonix area. Searching for elusive fresh snow, we aimed for the back side of Chamonix's Aiguilles Rouges.

Just starting, heading up to the Col des Aiguilles Crochues. The Aiguilles Crochues behind.

It was a busy day in this part of the Alps, with lots of folks sharing the same idea. Here, we are on the steep boot-pack up to the Col.

From the Col, the route skis down on occasionally icy slopes to a corner. Unfortunately, Josh completely ripped his binding out of his ski on one foot. Irreparable, he and Kathy made to long posthole back up to the Col and into the Flégère ski area. Mark and Daniella carried on.

Seeking a bit more vertical, and also to escape the crowds, we opted to climb to the Brèche de Bérard, one of our favorite tours in the area.

looking back from near the Brèche at another party.

From the Brèche, we had some 1300 meters of excellent descent. Amazingly, the first 900 meters were incredibly good powder, light and knee to thigh deep.

This photo looks back at the descent from the Brèche, up about 900 meters of fantastic snow.

Roll your mouse over to see the route.