The North Arete is one of the most spectacular climbs of the Prealps. The Pointe Percée is the highest point of the Aravis Mountains. Literally meaning "pierced point," due to the small arch on the North Arete.
Altitude: 2200 m -2400 m (base of routes)
Height: 200-350 m
Number of routes: 30
Route rating/difficulty: 3b: 3, 3c: 3, 4a: 2, 4b: 11, 4c: 5, 5a: 4, 5b: 14, 5c: 21, 6a: 17, 6b: 18, 6c: 15, 7a: 10, 7b: 2
Type of rock: limestone
Aspect: north facing and west facing depending on route.
Approach: 1.5-2 hours
To consider:
Frequent afternoon thunderstorms in the summer. Retreat is difficult for routes on the north face.
Bring 50 m double ropes, 12 quickdraws, a helmet...
Topo: information from the Aravis guidebook (28 climbing areas, 600 routes, 1400 pitches), which you can purchase through the Compagnie des Guides des Aravis (Aravis guide service) - www.compagnie-guides-aravis.com
Height: 200-350 m
Number of routes: 30
Route rating/difficulty: 3b: 3, 3c: 3, 4a: 2, 4b: 11, 4c: 5, 5a: 4, 5b: 14, 5c: 21, 6a: 17, 6b: 18, 6c: 15, 7a: 10, 7b: 2
Type of rock: limestone
Aspect: north facing and west facing depending on route.
Approach: 1.5-2 hours
To consider:
Frequent afternoon thunderstorms in the summer. Retreat is difficult for routes on the north face.
Bring 50 m double ropes, 12 quickdraws, a helmet...
Topo: information from the Aravis guidebook (28 climbing areas, 600 routes, 1400 pitches), which you can purchase through the Compagnie des Guides des Aravis (Aravis guide service) - www.compagnie-guides-aravis.com