Mont Blanc in April/May

[tthirloway]

I'm planning a two week climbing trip to Mont Blanc in either late April or mid-May. (I know that's not too specific, but the plans are just starting to come together.)

 

I am looking for alpine climbing partners (snow/ice/rock). If anyone is going to be there or knows anyone who will I would love to talk to you/them.

 

Also any route suggestions would be appreciated as I have never been.

 

Thanks.

[Dane]

You know the majority of the lifts close in April right?

[tthirloway]

Nope, I didn't know that. Thanks. Do the huts stay open?

[sill]

http://www.compagniedumontblanc.fr/pages/excursion_schedules.html

[ScaredSilly]

The lifts may close but not all of the telepheriques. Many of the huts are fully open (i.e. staffed) for a limited time in the winter/spring months. When not staffed the huts always have winter access. However, they might be quite cold so you should be prepared to have all your gear.

 

During April and May many huts are staffed as that is prime time for skiing for the Haute Route and for climbing many of the classic faces that melt out in the summer.

 

I will be over there again for the last three weeks in April climbing and skiing. Send me a note with your abilities and I can try to make a few suggestions.

[tthirloway]

Any thoughts on climbing conditions (generally) in the second half of May? Will the rock faces be covered? Will I need skis?