Eyes wrinkled, sleeping bag marks on the face, we wake up after this second night that was even colder that the one before. In spite of the cold, and tired muscles after yesterday’s skiing, some moves having awakened muscles heretofore unknown to us, it is with legendary efficiency that the members of the expedition break camp. After breakfast in comfy Richard’s Palace, our little army gets busy restoring our campsite to its original state. In no time, there is no trace of our group in the environment, yet the group will walk away from this campsite on the shores of Baie d’Alexis with unforgettable memories! We’re off, headed for the comfort of our refuge, some 6,5 km away.
We climb to the Ghost’s Refuge via the same trail we travelled yesterday, but this time under a bright sun. It’s like travelling in a postcard setting. At each turn, we marvel at the quantity of snow, the incomparable view of the valley, and the beauty of the trees heavy with snow. This is truly a beautiful landscape that moves the soul.
We’re now at the Ghost’s Refuge, but our lunch that was to arrive by snowmobile is late. So, what else are we to do if not take in the midday sun? At times, life is so difficult for us, adventurers! After lunch in the convivial and warm atmosphere of the refuge, we’re take the road again for the last 4,5 km before the refuge where we’ll stay tonight.
Light-footed, we take to the trail. We stop at each tree, at each downhill to watch people determined to experience the strongest sensations, to take photos of each vista, each snowflake. In fact, we’re not even aware we are making progress all the while. Marika, adopts a super hero attitude, and challenges the important drops of each steep descent. As we travel the kilometres, the vision of the warm refuge, the outhouse and the washcloth bath motivates last few steps.
Once at the Le Pionnier Refuge, we can feel the excitement. This cabin is rather luxurious, and combined with the hot pink sunset, it generates euphoria within our group. The nice thing about being a little cold is that we realise that we take simple things for granted.
Early to bed tonight, as we will wake up at 4 AM for an alpine excursion. We should reach to top of Pic de la Hutte before sunrise.