Three of us are planning to hike the classic Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt, last week in August and first week in September.

I've heard reports of very warm weather in Europe this Summer. Has anyone done this route lately? How has the weather affected this route?

In particular, I'm concerned about the Plateau du Couloir above Valsorey Hut and the Mount Durand Glacier west of it.

I'm considering walking around the north side of Grand Combin, stopping perhaps at Col des Mille and Refuge du Panossier, before rejoining the route at Chanrion Hut.

Since I want to see the Valsorey region in anticipation of skiing the Haute Route next Spring, how practical would it be to hike from Valsorey Hut to Cabane du Col des Mille in one day (considering that the day would be in the middle of walking the Haute Route)?

I'm also conserned about conditions in and around Col de L'Eveque.

I have considerable general mountaineering experience, but the other two don't. The are, however, experienced backpackers in good condition.

Thanks in advance,

Morris

-- Morris Schneiderman (Morris@ProjectsDoneRight.com), August 05, 2003