Les Drobounes Combe

Avoriaz

Portes du Soleil

A great intro tour with many options and good access back to the lifts.

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
4.2 km
Ascent
580 m
Descent
580 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
1.6 km
High Point
2.2 km
Gradient
32˚
Les Drobounes Combe Map

This is a great intro route with many options to choose from on the descent. The route begins and ends in the lift network but but it goes through some wild terrain so don't underestimate it.

Description

Start at the bottom of the Brochaux chairlift and follow the summer walking track through the woods. Be careful of the numerous stream beds that you will have to cross. The difficulty of crossing these will depend on the depth of the snowpack.

Once out of the woods follow the obvious valley/combe. There's a couple of steep sections that require good kick turns (be aware of the steep ground and cliffs to your left, which can avalanche). Keep following the valley until you reach the steeper slopes that lead to the ridge. Be careful of cornices on the ridge as there's a big drop the other side.

Descend either the same way you came up or go skier's left for steeper terrain. Be careful as there are numerous cliffs, convex slopes and terrain traps.

Rejoin the walking track through the trees, this part requires short turns and good speed control. Take it easy and watch out for people coming up!

Enjoy a well earned tartiflette at one of the restaurants at the bottom.

This is a fantastic route to begin learning the touring game, but just because it's close to the lifts doesn't make it any safer than other off piste route.

If in doubt and wanting to improve your skiing, touring and safety skills book and instructor or guide.

https://www.avoriazalpineskischool.com

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

Exposure is limited to that of the slope itself. Getting hurt is still likely if the slope is steep and/or the snow is hard.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and May

Features

  • Bowl
  • Face
  • Alpine
  • Cliffs

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Ice axe

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area