Mont De Grange, Pertuis Couloir

Portes du Soleil

An awesome steep line on the distinctive pyramid that is Mont de Grange.

Ski Touring Extreme

Distance: 4.4 km
Ascent: 863 m
Descent: 862 m
Duration: 3-4 hrs

Low Point: 1.6 km
High Point: 2.4 km
Gradient: 47˚

This is another steep line in the Chablais area; it's very committing with lots of avalanche terrain all around.

Looking back up at Mont de Grange Photo: Mark Mckellar

Back on mellow terrain Photo: Mark Mckellar

Looking down the line Photo: Mark Mckellar

Description

Mont de Grange is a beautiful pyramid-shaped mountain with great lines on all its aspects. The Pertuis Couloir is one of the main lines on the NW face.

If the lifts are running, take the "La Combe" button lift all the way to the top. From there tour up to the beautiful "Chalets de Pertuis". After a snack keep going up into the Combe de Pertuis.

Hike up to the lookers right of the Pertuis couloir until you reach the ridge. Once on the ridge, follow it up to the summit where you'll be welcomed by one of the best panoramic views in the area (if it's clear).

The couloir has a few entry points. Which one you choose will depend on the conditions on the day. It can be fairly rocky on the top section so take your time. The first 100m is pretty steep and narrow - it's best to break it up into manageable sections before it eventually opens out into the Combe de Pertuis.

Enjoy some long turns in the bowl (if you've got the energy) and then rejoin your ascent route and follow it back to the start point.

If the lifts are shut and the road up isn't clear of snow, you'll have to start touring at 1000m!

This line requires many different skills and lots of knowledge. Always hire an instructor or guide if you want to improve.

https://www.avoriazalpineskischool.com