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About this place
Le Pleureur is a roughly 3,700 m summit in the Pennine Alps, rising above the Val de Bagnes in the Swiss canton of Valais. It stands between the reservoirs of Lac de Mauvoisin and Lac des Dix and is draped by the Pleureur and La Sâle glaciers. This is an objective for experienced mountaineers, not casual walkers.
Where is Le Pleureur?
The peak sits in southern Switzerland near the Italian border, within the municipality of Val de Bagnes. The Mauvoisin dam closes the valley to the north and Lac des Dix lies to the east. The area is among the most heavily glaciated corners of Valais, with other well-known high peaks such as Combin de Corbassière and Petit Combin nearby.
How do you climb Le Pleureur?
The ascent is a high-alpine mix of glacier travel and rock. You need crampons, rope, roped-team experience and a sound read of conditions. One route reported by climbers starts at Mauvoisin, crosses the Grand Ashle and follows the southwest ridge, which is also recommended for the descent. An alternative is a traverse from the Bivouac des Pantalons Blancs (about 3,280 m) over La Sâle and La Luette, best done when snow cover is thin.
The Pantalons Blancs bivouac is an igloo-shaped shelter run by the Sion section of the Swiss Alpine Club. It is always open and unstaffed. The approach from the Lac des Dix dam takes at least 3.5 hours, and overnight guests leave a fee in a box on the wall.
Where can you stay nearby?
On the Val de Bagnes side, the base is the Cabane de Chanrion at 2,462 m, south of Lac de Mauvoisin at the foot of Pointe d'Otemma. It belongs to the SAC, and the easiest access is by road from the north up to the Mauvoisin dam. Chanrion is also a stop on popular walking circuits around the Combins massif.
When should you go?
The climbing season runs through the months when the ridge is free of fresh snow, generally summer into early autumn. Check avalanche and glacier conditions before setting out, and hire a mountain guide if you do not know the area.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Le Pleureur? About 3,700 m above sea level; sources give 3,703 or 3,704 m.
Can I climb it without a guide? Yes, if you have glacier experience and the right gear. Beginners should go with a guide.
Where is the easiest place to start? At Mauvoisin, which is reachable by road, or at the Lac des Dix dam for the route via the Pantalons Blancs bivouac.
Are there huts in the area? Yes: Cabane de Chanrion (2,462 m) and the unstaffed Pantalons Blancs bivouac (about 3,280 m).
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