FATMAP by Strava

Vesses couloirs from Arp

Courmayeur

A great run from an amazing summit. There's potential for plenty of powder on varied terrain but snowboarders should be prepared for a walk at the end.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
6.5 km
Ascent
53 m
Descent
1.3 km
Low Point
1.5 km
High Point
2.8 km
Gradient
46˚
Vesses couloirs from Arp Map

This run has it all! It's steep and challenging in parts, there are open expanses to gain plenty of speed and enjoy some turns but also (if you time it just right after a snowfall) fantastic powder.

Description

You start this run the from Cresta D'Arp cable car, which is worth doing for the views alone! It feels like you are on top of the world and the old fashioned cable car itself makes you feel like you are in an old James Bond movie. Starting from Arp drop off the back of the peak, onto the opposite side from the cable car. Traverse rightwards, heading for a wide col. No matter how much speed you get on the traverse over to the col, you will need to a sidestep briefly to reach it. Ski down the ramp on the far side of the col (take care if this part is hard because there are rock cliffs below you) and then make your way rightwards across the powder field below to reach the junction with the tracks coming from the Youla lift. Starting from the Arp provides 400 vertical metres more skiing than coming from the Youla so it is highly recommended. When you are in the big bowl stay more leftwards to take the left Vesses couloir. 200 mt before to reach the road you will join the same route of the main Vesses couloir described from Youla.

The flat part will take you directly to the Zerotta chair lift and at the two restaurants. Poles are suggested for snowboarders.

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

3 out of 4

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

Best time to visit

between January and March

Features

  • Trees
  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area