Pointe Lachenal takes its name from Louis Lachenal, the great French guide. He was first to climb an 8000m peak. He died falling into a crevasse at the foot of this summit. Pointe Lachenal has several routes. The Contamine route was the first route opened on this face.

From Aiguille du Midi, descend the E ridge until the altitude of 3670m. From there, pass the bergschrund and cross the Col du Midi plateau to go between the Grand Rognon and Pointe Lachenal. Descend slightly on Géant glacier and then turn to the right to reach the foot of the SE spur where the Contamine route is located.