Col des Rachasses
A Winter Sunset Worth Every Step
High above the Chamonix Valley, this ski touring ascent rewards you with one of the finest sunset views in the Alps — golden light over Mont Blanc, the Argentière Glacier behind, and a powder descent to finish.
Shop Chamonix Prints →The Col des Rachasses sits high above the Chamonix Valley — a winter sunset spot that's both thrilling to reach and genuinely unforgettable once you're there. Golden light over Mont Blanc, the Aiguilles Rouges glowing behind you, and the Argentière Glacier catching the last of the day. This guide covers everything you need to get there safely and make the most of it.
"A sunset that makes every winter's effort worthwhile — golden light over Mont Blanc, the valley far below, and a powder descent still to come."
Two Routes to the Col
There are two main approaches to the Col des Rachasses, both starting from lifts on the Grands Montets side of the valley. Choose based on your fitness, time available, and conditions on the day.
Via the Bochard Gondola
Take the Bochard gondola to the top. Start descending the piste and make a right cut as soon as possible, traversing below a rocky section to a flat area — skins on here. Climb diagonally left, zig-zagging as you near the col. The final stretch can be steep and icy; ski crampons are strongly recommended for this section.
Via the Herse Chairlift
From the top of the Herse chairlift, skins on and head straight up. You'll intersect the Bochard tracks on the way up. More direct with fewer traverses — a slightly longer ascent but a more straightforward line for those who prefer it.
The Old Ski Patrol Hut
Position yourself by the hut, facing west. The sun drops behind the Mont Blanc Massif, casting the final golden light across the valley. Behind you, the Argentière Glacier catches the last colours of the day. One of the finest viewpoints in the Chamonix area — and almost nobody else is here.
The Sunset View
Once at the col, position yourself by the old ski patrol hut, facing west. The sun casts its final golden light over the Chamonix Valley — the Mont Blanc Massif ahead, the Aiguilles Rouges range lit from the side, and behind you, the Argentière Glacier glowing in the last of the alpine alpenglow.
The golden hues against snow-capped peaks make this one of the most peaceful and visually dramatic moments the valley offers. Crowds are non-existent. The silence is complete. It's worth every step of the ascent.
The Descent
As the sky shifts to deeper hues you'll still have time for a powder descent. Two options: return along your ascent route and find your line back to the piste, or cross the col itself and descend left along the line of the old piste. Either way, the regular route takes you back to the piste for a safe journey to the bottom.
Time Needed
Getting the timing right is the difference between a good experience and a great one. Plan your lift times backward from sunset, not forward from the car park.
Safety Essentials
This is a backcountry route above an active ski area. It demands proper preparation and the right gear. Do not attempt it without experience in off-piste and touring terrain.
Avalanche Transceiver
Switched on and worn — not in a bag. All members of your group should carry one and know how to use it.
Shovel & Probe
Non-negotiable for any backcountry terrain. Compact and lightweight — no excuse not to carry them.
Ski Crampons
The final section to the col can be steep and icy. Crampons make the difference between a safe ascent and a dangerous one.
Headlamp
Essential for visibility during the descent in fading light. Bring one even if you plan to be down before dark.
Fully Charged Phone
With a detailed map or GPS app downloaded offline. Cold temperatures drain batteries fast — keep it close to your body.
Water & Food
Bring more than you think you need. A descent in failing light or unexpected conditions takes longer than planned.
Fine Art Prints of the Chamonix Valley
From the Aiguille du Midi to the Argentière Glacier — fine art photography prints of the places that make Chamonix worth returning to, year after year.
Shop Chamonix Prints →Capture the Adventure
Fine art prints of Chamonix, Mont Blanc, and the wider Alps — from €22,75. Follow @chamonixprints for daily inspiration from the valley.
Shop Prints → @chamonixprints →
