23 - Nid d’Aigle, Baraque des Rognes, Glacier de Bionnassay

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© GEOPORTAIL

At the cable-car, head slightly downwards towards the Mont-Blanc de Bellevue Tramway station.

Take the Mont-Blanc Tramway to go towards Nid d’Aigle which is the terminus station.

Be careful to match the Bellevue cable schedules with the Mont-Blanc Tramway timetables.

Moreover, given the crowds at certain times, it is necessary to have a numbered card that indicates the train to catch.

Climb above the Nid d’Aigle station (2,372 m). You can start with a round trip to the glacier viewpoint by taking the path on the right.

Retrace your steps, then begin your climb on the steep and stony slopes leading to the Col des Rognes and its cabin. The trail winds its way up sharp bends in the arid desert valley of Pierre Ronde. After crossing the Col des Rognes, you reach the Baraque des Rognes ledge with many Ibex. Breathtaking views of the Aiguille du Goûter and its refuge.

Turn around and take the same route back to Nid d’Aigle.

Before getting to the Nid d’Aigle station, take the path that plunges to the left towards the right bank of the glacier and the valley of the Are.

The return begins with a sporty downhill trek on rocky slopes that run along the Bionnassay glacier and its moraine while dominating the impressive séracs and crevasses. The trail, which is sometimes overhead, is well equipped: two short passages on ladders, handrails and finally some metal steps allow to cross the rock face. Then the slope is gentler in the Are valley.

You cross a stream after the end of the glacier’s tip. Leave the trail on the left going towards the Glacier’s gateway and the Col du Tricot.

You get to the Are pastures and their cottages, at the entrance to the forest and the Bionnassay valley. Leave the trail on the left towards Bionnassay and continue through a wooded area, after crossing a small gate, to Bellevue station.

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