Refuge de la Creuse
2.6
Haute-Savoie, France
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About
Refuge de la Creuse sits at 2,256m in the Chaîne des Aravis, between the Mont-Blanc and Genevese Alps. The standard approach is from Chamonix via the Mer de Glace valley or from the Vallée Blanche side—expect 5–6 hours from the nearest road-accessible parking. Most climbers use this hut as a staging point for traverses of the Aravis chain or approaches to Mont-Blanc's eastern face. The location puts you above the tree line with direct access to alpine terrain and glaciated summits.
The refuge operates year-round but has limited capacity (around 40 beds) and is staffed only during main season (mid-June to mid-September). Winter visits require pre-arrangement. The hut serves simple but substantial meals—dinner and breakfast are included with bed bookings. Water comes from snowmelt and natural sources. Toilets are basic; there is no shower. The hut runs on a self-sufficient model typical of high-altitude refuges, so expect rustic conditions and shared dormitory sleeping.
Book direct with the guardian (gardien) between 8am and 6pm; contact details are available through FFCAM directories or the Chamonix alpine guides offices. July and August fill fast—aim to contact at least 4–6 weeks ahead if you're climbing during peak season. Off-season visits (September onwards) are more flexible but confirm conditions and staffing before making the approach. Bring a headtorch and be ready for altitude: acclimatisation on arrival is wise.
The refuge operates year-round but has limited capacity (around 40 beds) and is staffed only during main season (mid-June to mid-September). Winter visits require pre-arrangement. The hut serves simple but substantial meals—dinner and breakfast are included with bed bookings. Water comes from snowmelt and natural sources. Toilets are basic; there is no shower. The hut runs on a self-sufficient model typical of high-altitude refuges, so expect rustic conditions and shared dormitory sleeping.
Book direct with the guardian (gardien) between 8am and 6pm; contact details are available through FFCAM directories or the Chamonix alpine guides offices. July and August fill fast—aim to contact at least 4–6 weeks ahead if you're climbing during peak season. Off-season visits (September onwards) are more flexible but confirm conditions and staffing before making the approach. Bring a headtorch and be ready for altitude: acclimatisation on arrival is wise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 4–6 months ahead for July and August; the hut fills quickly for weekend slots and popular traverse dates.
Refuge de la Creuse is staffed from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions and staffing.
Approach from Chamonix via Mer de Glace or Vallée Blanche; allow 5–6 hours from the nearest road parking, mostly on established trails and glacier terrain.
Expect bunk beds, dinner and breakfast provided by the guardian, and minimal shower facilities (or none)—bring wet wipes and wash water is usually available.
No—the 5–6 hour approach involves glacier travel and exposed alpine terrain; climbers should have prior experience with crampons, rope work, and high altitude.
Location
45.8956, 6.4711
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.6
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Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
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