Today we hiked a section of the GR5 close to Mt. Blanc, starting at the Chalet du Lignon (1180m) up to Lac d'Anterne (2060m). The ascent took 4 hours at a leisurely pace with two breaks to eat snacks and many stops to enjoy the views and take TONS of photos. Spring hasn't quite arrived at the higher elevation- the lake was still frozen, and there's still quite a bit of snow to traverse above 1900m. We enjoyed mild temperatures and warm sunshine for the start of our hike until dark clouds and dense fog rolled in as we approached our destination, quickly changing to much colder temps and white out conditions.
We saw numerous marmots, a black grouse and a lone Alpine ibex with impressive horns. A highly recommended trek: rocky terrain, sharp peaks, and a green valley to interrupt the climb.
Cascade du Rouget just before the start of our route (above).
We spent only a short time admiring the frozen lake and watching the marmots scurry across the snow, imagining the blue water and the greening slopes, until we were ready to cross the snow expanse and make our way back down, stopping to help the herding dogs round-up a few sheep.
