The Mont Blanc Massif, centered around western Europe’s highest peak and the historic mountaineering town of Chamonix, has arguably the biggest, and most accessible concentration of backcountry ski lines on the planet. Due to its high elevation and the abundance of glaciated terrain, the lines here are as steep as they come. Chamonix is only an hour and a half from a major international airport (Geneva), has an extensive lift system, an expansive public transport infrastructure, and an excellent network of overnight backcountry huts, both serviced and unserviced. This accessibility Is unmatched anywhere in the world, but it does come with a price: expect crowds in the high season. The Ecrins Mountains in and around the small rural town of La Grave, France, on the other hand, are true wilderness, with few (if any) ski lifts, and no ski patrol to tell you when or where to go (or not to go). It is a vestige of a bygone era in winter recreation: cheap prices, few lodging options, no crowds, no rules, and no boundaries. Throw in some incredible scenery, friendly locals, good food, good wine, and some of the rowdiest lines in all of Europe, and you’ve got one of the best ski mountaineering destinations anywhere. Get there fast, before growing interest (and global warming) beats you to it.