Col Pers Classic

This long adventurous journey is a Val d'Isère mega classic but it should not be underestimated. The environment is serious and well away from the pistes and safety of the resort. You should be properly equipped and before you set out, find out if you can get out through the Malpasset (which translates as bad passage!) gorge. There is usually a board at the top of the Cascade Express chair, or ask the ski patrol. Countless people have needed to be rescued by helicopter here! It is easier to get to the Col Pers from the Montet lift but you can also get there from the Cascade Express. Traverse skiers left keeping as high as possible to reach the legendary Col Pers - your window to a world of fantastic off-piste skiing. From the col there are two options. The classic descent descends down the wide open bowl where there is plenty of space for you to choose your own line. When you reach the main valley, lead left into the Isere canyon. This gorge can be delicate even under good snow cover. The snow bridges above the river aren't always great - be careful! Reach the bridge and skate along the road back to the Fornet cable car. The alternative line to the right traverses high for a few hundred metres to a small col where you can descend to join the line that comes down from the North Face of Pointe Pers.