FATMAP by Strava

Traverse of the dome de Gaulent

Briançon

A great traverse over one of the main peaks in the valley

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
15 km
Ascent
1.3 km
Descent
1.6 km
Duration
7-8 hrs
Low Point
1.2 km
High Point
2.7 km
Gradient
31˚
Traverse of the dome de Gaulent Map

A wild and remote traverse of one of the main peaks in the valley, you will need to cars to make this traverse work or face a long skin back round to the starting point. But the effort is worth it, with the route offering great views and a real feeling of being high in the mountains

Description

From the parking follow the forest road towards the Cabane de Tramouillon. There are quite a few options for cutting corners off the road that are never that steep and save a lot of time versus following the road. Just before the Cabane there is a small bridge that you must cross. From the Cabane you will see the south-east facing slope that takes you to the col at 2707m. Climb to the col it get very steep here and the use of crampons and axe maybe necesary.

Descent

Ski down the Vallon de Clauzis. You can ski it either side and both are a fun line. At the end of the valley turn east and access a long open slope with the Eysserenne stream on it. It’s important to access this face as high up as you can; if you drop too low the trees stop you getting across. At the bottom of the face you come to a forest road, follow this east. The road goes all the way down to the bridge at 1194m, it isn’t very steep in places so can be hard work, in good snow it is possible to cut the corners off the road.

Difficulty

Severe

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

High Exposure (E3)

3 out of 4

In case of a fall, death is highly likely.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby