Aiguille du Dru

Rising majestically above the Chamonix Valley in the French Alps, the Aiguille du Dru, also known simply as Les Drus, is an iconic mountain that has captured the imagination of climbers and adventurers for decades. With its sharp pinnacle reaching an elevation of 3,754 meters, this granite spire is part of the Mont Blanc massif and stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Alps.

The Aiguille du Dru is renowned for its challenging climbs and has a storied history in the world of mountaineering. First summited in 1878 by British climber William Coolidge with guides Christian Almer and Ulrich Almer, the mountain has since offered some of the most technical and demanding routes in the Alps. The west face, in particular, is famous for its sheer vertical relief and was the site of many pioneering ascents throughout the 20th century.

Despite its allure, the Aiguille du Dru is also known for its precarious rock conditions, which have been exacerbated by the retreat of glaciers and permafrost due to climate change. Significant rockfalls in 2005 and subsequent years have reshaped its iconic profile, serving as a stark reminder of the mountain's dynamic and ever-changing nature.