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About this place
Aiguille d'Orny is a rocky summit of roughly 3,150 m on the Swiss side of the Mont Blanc massif, west of Orsières in the canton of Valais. It is the climbing showpiece of the Cabane d'Orny area and a landmark for hikers around Champex-Lac and the Val d'Arpette.
Where is Aiguille d'Orny?
The spire rises along a ridge above the Orny Glacier, the eastern branch of the Plateau du Trient glacier. Approaches start from the valley side: the Val d'Arpette runs up to the north-west, and the lakeside village of Champex-Lac, in the Orsières municipality, is the usual base. Neighbouring points on the same ridge include Pointe de la Cabane, and some of them are unnamed on French maps. Sources disagree on the exact height, quoting 3,150 m or about 3,167 m, so check a current swisstopo map before planning.
How do you get there?
Most people start in Champex-Lac. One route follows old irrigation channels (bisses) into the Val d'Arpette, then a forest path to the Col de la Breya. A chairlift to La Breya saves a good part of the climb but stops running at 5 pm. The other option is the Combe d'Orny approach from Champex-Lac, listed at around 4 hours 30 minutes. Walkers also include the hut in the multi-day route from Praz-de-Fort to Champex.
What is the Cabane d'Orny?
This Swiss Alpine Club (CAS) hut stands at about 2,830 m and sleeps 86. It was inaugurated in 1977 and serves as the main base for climbers heading to the surrounding granite faces and onto the glacier. Further up, near the Col d'Orny, sits the Cabane du Trient (about 3,170 m), and the two huts are often combined in a multi-day plan.
Who is the peak for?
Mainly rock climbers. The south face carries several routes; South Classic is the easiest, and the others include Jeremiade, Quiche Moraine and The Carpet. The wall is reached from the hut over glacier terrain, so you need climbing gear and glacier experience. Hikers without those skills can walk to the hut and view the peak from below.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Aiguille d'Orny?
Most sources give 3,150 m above sea level, though some list around 3,167 m.
Where should I stay?
At the Cabane d'Orny (about 2,830 m, 86 beds), or down in Champex-Lac or Orsières.
How long does it take to reach the hut?
From Champex-Lac through the Combe d'Orny it is about 4.5 hours. The La Breya chairlift shortens the walk but closes at 5 pm.
Is it a beginner's summit?
No. It involves rock climbing and travel on the Orny Glacier; without experience, hire a mountain guide or stick to the hut trail.
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