Big breakfast in Arolla, then ascend from 6500 ft. to Cab. de Bertol (hut at 11,000 feet).
- Arolla (6500') -> Plans de Bertol (8770')
- zigzag up glacier to 11,000 feet.
- included 2 ladders and 3 chain rails. Spectacular crest.
- just over 3 hours of climbing time. Nice steps in snow (previous groups).
- Legs and body held up great. Literally no fatigue. Just kept a slow but steady pace.
- Cabane de Bertol perched on knife ridge. Dorm on 2 floors. Only 6 in our room.
- Panaroma on Matteral Valley (top 5000' of Matterhorn in view).
- Used bivvy bag and stayed plenty warm.
- Gorgeous sunset and sunrise. Great pics (see Slideshow)
- Dinner: heated can of ravoli (Spaniard climber had a little stove and insisted we use it).
- Met two groups doing the ancient Haute route. They'll head over the next glaciated area very early tomorrow morning and will end up in Zermott (the termination).
- Am reading Treasure of Khan (by Clive Cussler). Fun read.