Locals Favourite Sunset Spot in Winter - Chamonix Ski Edition: Reaching the Col des Rachasses

Are you ready to experience a sunset that will make every winter’s effort worthwhile? The Col des Rachasses, high above the Chamonix Valley, offers a winter sunset spot that’s both thrilling to reach and unforgettable to experience. This guide will take you through the essentials for reaching this stunning location and safely enjoying its awe-inspiring view.

Essential Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Emergencies in Chamonix

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How to Reach the Col des Rachasses

The Col des Rachasses is accessible by two main routes. For the shortest option, take the Bochard gondola to the top. Start descending along the piste, then make a right cut as soon as possible to traverse below a rocky section until you reach a flat area—perfect for putting on your skins. From here, start climbing diagonally to the left. As you near the col, identified by a small notch in the ridge with a nearby wooden hut, continue zig-zagging up. Be mindful that the final stretch can be steep, especially if icy, so it’s recommended to carry ski crampons for this part of the ascent. This route covers approximately 300 vertical metres.

Alternatively, for a slightly longer but more direct ascent of 400 vertical metres, take the Herse chairlift. From the top, put on your skins and head straight up. You’ll intersect the tracks from Bochard along the way, with fewer traverses required on this route.

The Sunset View

Once at the col, the sunset vantage point awaits! For the best view, position yourself by the old ski patrol hut, facing west. From here, you can catch the sun casting its final golden light over the Chamonix Valley, with views of the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges range. Behind you lies the Argentière Glacier and if you're there in time, you'll be able to catch some last views of the golden snow. The golden hues against the snow-capped peaks make it an ideal location for a peaceful moment of natural beauty.

The Descent

As the sky starts shifting to deeper hues, you’ll still have time to make a powdery descent back. You can either return along your ascent route, finding your line back down to the piste, or cross the col itself and descend on the left following the line of the old piste. When you’re ready to descend fully, the regular route will take you back towards the piste for a safe journey down the home run.

Time Needed

• Give yourself 30-60 minutes for the ascent (depending on your fitness and route).
• Aim to time the lifts, so you can enjoy golden hour at the hut and for the ski down in glistening snow.
  
• Golden hour generally last about 1 hour before sunset time but give yourself some extra time as the sun sets behind the mountains earlier in Chamonix.

Safety Essentials

• Safety Gear: Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, and ski crampons are a must. Always bring a headlamp for safe visibility during dusk hours, a fully charged phone, and a detailed map or GPS device. Ideally, carry ski crampons, plenty of water and some food (just in case).
• Safety Notice: Remember, the descent often overlaps with active slope grooming. Be mindful of piste machines and groomers in action, especially as daylight fades.
• Important Reminder: This guide is for advanced skiers who are confident in backcountry terrain. Only attempt this route if you’re experienced and capable of handling challenging, steep, and icy terrain. Please ski responsibly—ChamonixPrints assumes no responsibility for accidents.