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Mont Dolent via Swiss Route — August 2020 Summit Report

Summit

Mont Dolent (3820m)

Mont Dolent — 3,820m — France — watercolor illustration
Date
Aug 14, 2020
Party Size
2
Duration
2 days
Difficulty
3/5

Conditions

Weather
Settled August weather. Cool and clear with excellent visibility. The tri-border point was clearly visible.
Snow
Mixed snow and rock on the ridge. Glacier approach with hidden crevasses.
Temperature
-5°C to 10°C
Wind
Moderate 15-20 km/h on the exposed ridge

Elevation Profile

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Elevation profile of Mont Dolent (3820m)

Mont Dolent via Swiss Route — August 2020 Summit Report

Mont Dolent is unique — its summit is the geographic point where Switzerland, France, and Italy meet. The climb from the Swiss side starts at Cabane de l'A Neuve and crosses the Pre de Bar glacier before ascending the northwest ridge. The mixed climbing on the upper ridge is engaging, and the summit is intimate — room for only a few people. Standing simultaneously in three countries while surrounded by the Mont Blanc massif is unforgettable.

Trip Overview

Mountain: Mont Dolent (3820m) Date: August 14, 2020 Duration: 2 days Party Size: 2 Outcome: Summit

Conditions

Weather: Settled August weather. Cool and clear with excellent visibility. The tri-border point was clearly visible. Snow: Mixed snow and rock on the ridge. Glacier approach with hidden crevasses. Temperature: -5°C to 10°C Wind: Moderate 15-20 km/h on the exposed ridge

Difficulty Assessment

Mont Dolent sits at the triple border of Switzerland, France, and Italy. The Swiss route from Cabane de l'A Neuve involves glacier crossing and a mixed rock-snow ridge. Route-finding on the upper ridge requires experience. Not heavily trafficked.