The path ahead!

1hr to the refuge, though I doubt that estimate was measured in winter. From here on, without snowshoes the depth is above the knee. The cloud had Lifted and it was time to retrace my steps. I had been the sole occupant of this white wilderness for the morning. Now a figure approached, rhythmically placing his snowshoes and sticks over my tracks. We exchanged salutations as he passed. I watched him drop over the ridge. It was his valley now.
Meribel-Mottaret