Dente del Gigante is certainly one of the most recognizable peaks in the Mont Blanc Massif. Its unmistakable profile attracts not only mountaineers but also all those who visit Courmayeur or Punta Helbronner to admire the spectacular scenery offered by the high mountains. Its ascent via the normal route is facilitated by a series of fixed ropes that make the Dente accessible to a large number of mountaineers.

Program

The ascent of Dente del Gigante can be completed in 1 or 2 days, depending on the participants' level of preparation. Below is the 2-day itinerary.

DAY 1

Meet in Courmayeur in the early afternoon in front of the SkyWay lift station, reach Rifugio Torino by cable car and spend the night there.

DAY 2

The following morning, traverse below the Aiguille Marbrées and then head toward the obvious snow couloir cutting through the rock buttress beneath the "Gengiva." From here, over easy but delicate mixed terrain, reach the base of a large gendarme that must be bypassed on the right. Follow the ridge of mixed rock and snow with some logical deviations until reaching the snow basin of the Gengiva, at the base of the south face of Dente del Gigante.
From here, descend a couple of meters to the left and start the route on a terrace fully exposed to the north (anchors and fixed ropes). From here, reach a small terrace through sections of climbing, some sustained, where the fixed ropes begin. Follow them faithfully to the top of Punta Sella, then descend to the next col and reach Punta Graham where the statue of the Madonna is located. Descent by rappel.

Necessary materials

Mountaineering equipment

• mountain boots, preferably with crampons or semi-crampons
• telescopic trekking poles
• harness
• helmet
• crampons
• ice axe

Harness, helmet, crampons and ice axe can be rented.

High mountain clothing

• thermal first layer
• technical sweatshirt or fleece
• down jacket or padded jacket
• Goretex jacket or similar windproof jacket
• mountaineering trousers
• warm gloves
• spare gloves
• cap or buff

Essential accessories

• sleeping bag sheet (mandatory in all high mountain refuges)
• category 3 or 4 sunglasses
• thermos or thermal flask
• sunscreen
• headlamp
• energy bars and basic medicines

Rates per person for private/pre-formed groups

Tariffe a persona per gruppi privati/precostituiti:

• 600€ - 1 persona
• 350€ - 2 persone