Description

A pretty big day out for the average ski tourer.

Start by driving to the Notre Dame de la Gorge in Les Contamines.

The village is small but does provide a good stop for supplies.

An early start is recommended later in the season to avoid any potential avalanche hazards.

The approach does cut through many avalanche paths from steep south facing slopes that get cooked.

Ensure you have understood the forecast. From the the car park, cross the bridge and follow the path away from the where you have parked.

Ascend up the path and follow it up the valley. The route is very obvious as you climb and when Tête Nord and Sud des Fours come in to view you can begin to assess your potential descents.

Keep climbing following the paths around the refuges and electricity pylons.

The last third requires a few kick turns and a gentle traverse to get to the col.

After a big day, you can choose to descend via the same route but it would be silly not to climb a few extra minutes to ski this really fun NW face.

If you have time, keep climbing to drop in to any number of lines along that face.

All will take you back on to the descent route.

Be careful as the last section will have snowshoers and when mixed with tired legs could be an issue.

Get to the car and go eat some quiche.

You've earned it.