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Aiguille Verte

La Clusaz & Le Grand Bornand

A short fun classic of the Aravis that gives a good taste of the area.

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
4.9 km
Ascent
666 m
Descent
666 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
1.4 km
High Point
2 km
Gradient
38˚
Aiguille Verte Map

A short, fun and accessible ski tour that offers a great viewpoint to the mountains above the Col de la Colombière and towards the highest mountain in the Aravis, Pointe Percée.

Description

Although never difficult, it is worth being aware of the objective risk from slopes above as you skin up to the col between Roc des Tours and Aiguille Verte. It is a great ski tour to do with spring snow which is possible even early in the winter, or under powder in colder temperatures. It is a very good idea to carry couteau (ski crampons) for the ridge to the summit if it is a spring snowpack, and the snow is firm earlier in the day.

From the parking skin up mellow terrain until turning to the West and bypassing a steeper area with trees. Continue up the depression ahead or further left on the raised terrain to avoid being under the slopes above you until you reach the col. From the col skin up the ridge on the right hand side with a few kick turns here and there.

The last section to the summit is often stripped of snow and you can leave your skis and bootpack up the last section. Enjoy the vista from the airy summit looking down on Lac de Lessy before walking down to your skis. Timing will be everything if you are after spring snow, and a more direct line down will offer the best skiing, it is a good idea to look at this while on the ascent. There are steepenings with very small rocky patches but these are easily managed. Savour the turns (they will be fun!) before rejoining the ascent route and then some ‘meadow skipping’ down to the parking.

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

Exposure is limited to that of the slope itself. Getting hurt is still likely if the slope is steep and/or the snow is hard.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and March

Features

  • Face
  • Single Descent

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area