Just to keep you updated that the Vallée Blanche is effectively closed until next winter. The ridge from the Aiguille du Midi, as shown in the picture, is no longer equipped with ropes. Also the telecabine up from the edge of the glacier to the Montenvers train station is closed for mechanical reasons. Although the conditions on this classic ski descent are still OK, it is better to leave it until next year due to the ridge and cable car situation. Still, it has been one of the longest Vallée Blanche seasons in recent memory, where it has been possible from just before Christmas through to mid May, so a five month winter ski season. The Aiguille du Midi cable car is still open, despite building works at the Chamonix station, and so from early June it will be possible for people to undertake the classic glacier trek from the Midi to Helbronner, across the top of the Vallée Blanche. The Montenvers railway is also open for those wanting to access the Mer de Glace, but the only way onto the glacier is via the ladders that are the usual approach for during summer.