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Toula Glacier

Aiguille du Midi

Chamonix

Skyway Monte Bianco

A serious but truly exceptional, long and varied ski descent in breathtaking terrain.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
3.6 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
1.2 km
Low Point
2.2 km
High Point
3.4 km
Gradient
47˚
Toula Glacier Map

  • The ladders which used to access the Toula Glacier are no longer in place. The run can still be accessed via an awkward set of rappels, or by skiing the shoulder of the Aiguille d'Entrêves, or via one of the very steep couloirs beneath the Pointe Helbronner. We have left this route description as it is because the ladders may be replaced one day, and because the lower part of the route description could still be useful to skiers.

Description

Leaving the Punta Helbronner top station head for the Col des Flambeaux. Traversing left side step through the col and continue to the Col oriental de Toula and take the stairs down onto the glacier from where you start this most amazing ski descent. Ski fall line until the terrain steepens and a crevasse field is passed on your right. After this stay close to the rock and ski ever-widening slopes always tending gently left as you explore this winter wonderland and make your way back to the mid station psyched for another lap. The terrain is glaciated and extremely avalanche prone. The aspect gets lots of sun and don't be tempted to do one lap too many when the conditions start getting dangerous.

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

  • Glacier

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area