Col de la Dent Blanche CAS Bivouac
1.1
3,540m
Savoie, France
About
Col de la Dent Blanche sits at 3540m on the border between Valais and the Italian Alps. The bivouac is reached in 3.5–4 hours from Zermatt via the Hörnli hut route, or in 4–5 hours from Riffelalp. The final approach is steep and exposed; scrambling experience and good acclimatization are essential. Snow and ice persist into June on the upper sections.
The SAC-CAS operates this simple high-altitude refuge with 15 beds across a small hut. There is no self-catering kitchen, so you must bring a stove and fuel if you plan to cook. Water is available from snowmelt or ice in season. The hut is staffed seasonally and offers mattresses, blankets, and basic shelter. Opening dates vary by snow conditions; typically mid-June to September. Toilets are outside. Expect minimal amenities and exposed conditions—this is a mountaineer's bivouac, not a comfort refuge.
Book directly with SAC-CAS via email well ahead of your visit. July and August fill quickly; book at least 4–6 weeks in advance for these months. June and September see lighter traffic. Confirm opening status before departure. The hut sits on a popular route to the 4357m Dent Blanche summit, so expect crowds during settled weather windows.
The SAC-CAS operates this simple high-altitude refuge with 15 beds across a small hut. There is no self-catering kitchen, so you must bring a stove and fuel if you plan to cook. Water is available from snowmelt or ice in season. The hut is staffed seasonally and offers mattresses, blankets, and basic shelter. Opening dates vary by snow conditions; typically mid-June to September. Toilets are outside. Expect minimal amenities and exposed conditions—this is a mountaineer's bivouac, not a comfort refuge.
Book directly with SAC-CAS via email well ahead of your visit. July and August fill quickly; book at least 4–6 weeks in advance for these months. June and September see lighter traffic. Confirm opening status before departure. The hut sits on a popular route to the 4357m Dent Blanche summit, so expect crowds during settled weather windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Email the CAS contact at least 2–3 months ahead for summer; this 15-bed bivouac fills quickly on weekends and during the climbing season.
Generally open from late June to September, depending on snow conditions and staffing; check with CAS before heading up, as high altitude and weather can force closures.
3.5–4 hours from Zermatt via Hörnli hut, or 4–5 hours from Riffelalp; the final approach is steep and exposed, requiring scrambling ability.
The bivouac provides beds and basic shelter only; bring a camping stove and fuel, as there is no self-catering kitchen—meals are your responsibility.
No; 3540m altitude, exposed scrambling, and persistent snow into June demand solid acclimatization, scrambling experience, and Alpine familiarity.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- SAC
- Season
- –
- Total
- 15
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- Website
- https://www.cas-jaman.ch/cabanes/bivouac-de-la-dent-blanche