Ski touring requires a solid knowledge of the mountains. Indeed, depending on the chosen spot, the difficulty and avalanche risk can vary significantly. To stay safe, you need to choose a location suited to your level. Explore the must-visit spots for ski touring.
Key takeaways:
- Resorts offer marked ski touring routes that are accessible to beginners.
- Wild mountain ranges are reserved for skiers with a certain level of experience.
- Every outing must be planned in advance to avoid unnecessary risks.
Getting started safely: marked routes at ski resorts
No discussion of ski touring would be complete without mentioning Arêches-Beaufort, in Savoie. For over 30 years, the resort has hosted the famous ski mountaineering race Pierra Menta. In total, four permanent routes, known as "Traces" and colour-coded by difficulty, are on offer. For those starting out in ski touring, the Trace Verte is ideal with its 1.5 km length and 310 m of positive elevation gain.
Another Savoyard resort, Val Thorens promises reliable snow cover thanks to its high altitude, making it the highest resort in Europe. For ski touring, it offers five marked routes with exceptional views. La Camille is particularly popular with beginners, covering 1.9 km with 235 m of positive elevation gain.
For skiers looking for a more welcoming and accessible resort, La Clusaz, in Haute-Savoie, is a great option. The resort offers two marked ski touring routes: the Beauregard route (5 km and 600 m of D+) and the Massif de l'Étale route (4 km and 700 m of D+).
Unlike the Alps, ski touring is less structured and waymarked in the Pyrenees. However, it is possible to get started at Gourette, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. A freely accessible route links the Cotch chairlift to the hamlet of Fontaines de Cotch. Its four sections can be completed in sequence or tackled individually, for a total of 4.5 km and 730 m of positive elevation gain.
For experienced skiers: accessible wild mountain ranges
For more experienced athletes with solid ski touring physical preparation, wild mountain ranges are often more appealing. In the Southern Alps, the Queyras is highly sought after. A host of routes are possible from Arvieux-Brunissard, Abriès or Saint-Véran.
Still in the Southern Alps, the Mercantour offers more technical terrain. For experienced skiers, the Madone de Fenestre refuge is the starting point for numerous routes such as the Balcon du Gélas, the Tour du Gélas and Caïre Cabret. These still very unspoilt locations have the advantage of offering views over the highest peaks of the Mercantour.
Located in the Northern Alps, the Vanoise is a vast playground for skiers. You'll find a huge number of routes with varying elevation gains, between 300 and 1,000 m, and distances generally ranging from 5 to 12 km depending on the route. The classic Col de la Vanoise route offers the chance to discover nature that remains largely unspoilt.
The Fiz massif is another highly regarded option. Its magical landscapes offer glimpses of the Mont-Blanc massif. Here too, several routes with 700 to 1,200 m of positive elevation gain await skiers. Starting points include Plaine-Joux or Servoz.
Finally, skiers seeking natural terrain with no nearby infrastructure can head to the Pyrénées Ariégeoises. Several hikes are available here too, including one with 750 m of positive elevation gain starting from the Laparan dam and going up to the Col du Riutort.
Choosing the right place to go ski touring
Before choosing where to go ski touring, there are several key habits to adopt. First, check snow conditions, read the avalanche bulletin (BRA) and check the weather forecast. Before heading out, also make sure you have all your safety equipment as well as your ski touring outfit.
Choose a route suited to your level. Research the elevation gain and technical challenges. If you're a beginner or intermediate, opt for straightforward terrain with open areas, wide valleys and consistent slopes. Also make sure you can easily access the starting point.
Before you even set off, have a plan B ready. Choose a similar but shorter route as an alternative in case of any issues. Don't hesitate to check specialist forums or local hiking groups for up-to-date information on trail conditions.
Your level, expectations and location should guide you in deciding where to go ski touring. By choosing suitable routes and carefully planning each outing, you'll make the most of the mountains in complete safety.
Photo credits: Grégoire Fauquenoi
