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From Arolla (Normal route) Cabane des Vignettes Geelen Katrien 3160 m

Difficulty

PD
Ascent

4 h, 1190 m
Descent

1190 m
Exposure

N, NE, E

Aside from the 'Haute Route' route which passes through the hut, the approach from Arolla is also very 'crowded'. The simple approach should not be underestimated - it still crosses over a glacier!

Great view of the surrounding peaks.

Rough line of the route. © Georges Sanga

Early morning nearing the hut without a sweat! © Georges Sanga

Approaching the Pièce glacier. © Georges Sanga

Access is also possible from the top of the ski lifts. © Georges Sanga

Nearly there (the Col des Vignettes just ahead on the sky line) © Georges Sanga

Overview of the (well tracked) route across the Pièce glacier © Georges Sanga

Cabane de Vignettes - SAC section Monte Rosa © Clark Gabler

Descent over the Pièce glacier © Georges Sanga

Route description

Arolla - Cabane des Vignettes

From Arolla "Les Magines" (1968 m), at the base of the ski lifts, head initially straight up the ski piste. At around 2200 m, turn left to reach the high and ancient moraine that once separated the glaciers of Tsijiore Nouve and Pièce. Follow the moraine until you can drop down on its east side to P. 2494. Continue along the depression on the S side of the moraine (heading SW) into the broad glacial valley of Pièce. Continue along the centre of the glacier all the way (or later trend towards its eastern bank - depending on crevasses). Finally, arc around towards Col des Vignettes, passing under the rocks of Pointe des Vignettes. Either bear left near the top and gain the hut more directly, or continue up to the pass, then E along the ridge to reach it, nestled among the rocks on the south side.