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Les Hauts Forts: South Face First Couloir

Morzine

Avoriaz

Portes du Soleil

Sunny backcountry tour with steep couloir.

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
789 m
Ascent
0 m
Descent
468 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2.4 km
Gradient
47˚
Les Hauts Forts: South Face First Couloir Map

Begin this tour at the bottom of the Vallee de la Manche, there is a regular bus from Morzine to the foot of the snow line. Follow the snow road up through Le Charny, past the Lac de Mines d'Or and continue heading for the Col de Cou. As you exit the forest at 1,506m turn left towards the chalets at Beau Bornon (1,514m). Climb the Lechere coomb and, at 1,720m turn to the north. Cross over a ridge at 1,900m to access the Fornet coomb and ascend the steep couloir (42°) directly below the summit. Once you are just underneath the summit, bear left up a snowy ramp to the ridge before making the final climb to the right onto the summit. Descend by the same route.

Description

This face needs a particularly cold and good snow year to come into condition for freeriding as it is warmed constantly throughout the day. If you attempt this route be sure to head out very early morning. The top ramp is often not in appropriate condition to complete.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

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 February

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area