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Montagne de Chailol

Briançon

A mini adventure over an incredibly well-positioned peak.

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
5.5 km
Ascent
727 m
Descent
746 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
2 km
High Point
2.7 km
Gradient
44˚
Montagne de Chailol Map

This is a great trip which feels disproportionally wild considering how little physical effort is required to do it. Start at the Col du Lautaret, which seems to be cold on virtually every day of the year and is particularly freezing in winter!

Description

Skin up north-west from the col, aiming for a vague and wide ramp descending from the summit of the Montagne de Chaillol. Upon reaching this ramp climb up it until it steepens to the point at which you can no longer skin. Don crampons and bootpack onto the summit ridge of the Montagne de Chaillol. Follow the ridge easily to summit on foot or skis depending on the conditions.

The view from the summit is truly spectacular and you'll be able to see the legendary Meije and many of the other famous peaks in the Ecrins Massif such as the Pic Gaspard. You'll also have a good view down onto the deep valley which is home to the legendary ski village of La Grave.

Having taken in the panorama put skis on and retrace your steps back down the summit ridge before quickly dropping off left into a stunning gully. The only problem with the gully is that it's not long enough but - as long as it lasts - it's a brilliant ski. The gully soon opens up into an open slope interspersed with some rolling features and bowls to play with. Ski down the slope wherever looks most fun to reach a snow-covered jeep track.

Follow the track as it swings round south to deposit you above the col. Rip down the final slope back to the col.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between December and April

Features

  • Bowl
  • Face
  • Couloir
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area