Ski Touring on the Col du Passon Circuit
For those who want to move through the mountain landscape rather than just look at it, the Col du Passon ski tour above Argentière is a classic that rewards with solitude, jaw-dropping views of the Aiguille Verte and a descent through untracked powder that no groomed piste can replicate. It is accessible to fit intermediate tourers with a guide and the right avalanche kit.
The Route Overview
The circuit begins from the top of the Bochard gondola (2,233 m) and climbs on skins for roughly 90 minutes to the Col du Passon at approximately 2,687 metres, on the Swiss border above the Vallée de Chamonix. The skinning gradient is steady rather than brutal, making it a good first touring objective for skiers transitioning from resort skiing.
From the col you look down into the Swiss canton of Valais on one side and across the full sweep of the Argentière basin on the other — the Aiguille d'Argentière, the Tour Noir and the Chardonnet all lined up like a geography textbook illustration. The descent back into France follows open snowfields before threading through larch trees to the valley floor.
Guides, Safety & Logistics
Hiring a qualified UIAGM mountain guide is non-negotiable for this route — avalanche terrain is real and conditions change daily. The Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix (based in Chamonix town) offers group and private ski touring days and can tailor the Col du Passon circuit for different fitness levels.
Every member of the party must carry an avalanche transceiver (DVA), probe and shovel, and know how to use them. Most guide companies will check your kit at the start and can rent equipment if needed. The season runs roughly from January through to early April depending on snowpack.
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