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Pointe de Vorlaz: North Face

Avoriaz

Portes du Soleil

A variety of lines for experienced skiers with airy, exposed ascent.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
1.3 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
537 m
Low Point
1.8 km
High Point
2.3 km
Gradient
40˚
Pointe de Vorlaz: North Face Map

To reach the summit of the Vorlaz you must first get to the top of the Cubore chairlift (the "up and over chair") via the Fornet bowl or by taking the Mossettes chairlift and skiing round to meet the Cubore at the other side. Once at the top follow the traverse line underneath the Vorlaz on the Fornet side for about 100m. You will then need to make a half hour hike directly up to the ridge up a very steep pitch. In winter there is often an obvious boot pack to follow but beware that this is very steep and you will need to attach skis to your rucksack for the climb. This south facing slope can become very warm in spring time and the snow can quickly become rotten so be sure to get here early.

Description

Once you reach the ridge follow the boot pack along to the summit. It can feel very exposed in sections with the sides dropping away very steeply, it is important to feel confident about making such an ascent before you begin because once you are on the ridge there is no turning back.

To drop into the north face descend along the top of the Vorlaz for around 30m before dropping immediately right. It is slightly steeper than the northwest face but offers up a huge range of different lines; staying far skier's left above the rocks or far skier's right, or everything in between. There is a wide cliff band half way down with a few skiable channels or you can enjoy a long flowing descent on the skier's right flank.

It is important to be very aware of the snow conditions and the wind direction as this face is prone to wind slab forming.

Once you reach the bottom of the main bowl you have a final descent across mellow terrain and finally down through spaced out trees to join the piste back to the foot of the Mossettes chairlift, or continue along the track to get to Lindarets.

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and March

Features

  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

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