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Col du Fours

Espace Killy

Tignes and Val d'Isère

Vanoise Massif

Charbonnel Group

An introductory ski tour to some great skiing

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
7.3 km
Ascent
514 m
Descent
1 km
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
2.3 km
High Point
3 km
Gradient
32˚
Col du Fours Map

More of a ski tour than off-piste skiing but an excellent introductory tour for those with skins or snow shoes. The climb is around an hour and a half but you get over 1000m of skiing for your efforts. From the top of the Céma lift, traverse skiers right to reach the 4x4 track. Head to the bridge where you put your skins on and climb the wide open valley. From the first col between the Pelaou Blanc and Grand Fond you can either traverse SW across the steep slope directly to the Col des Fours or more safely head to the wide ridge as shown and follow the ridge to the col. From the col enjoy the wide open NW facing valley. Head right (N) as you reach the main drainage to towards the "Fond des Fours" refuge. Stop here for refreshments later in the season when the hut is open. A beautiful spot to enjoy the sunshine and pitstop before continue your journey back to the resort. Form the refuge continue skiers right and choose your descent line avoiding the cliffs. Stay skiers right and join the tracks down from the classic Cugnai line which you follow all the way to the Manchet Express chair.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

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

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

Equipment required

  • Skins

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Guidebooks in this area