For skitourers who want steep terrain with not much of an approach, it can?t be much better than the Combeynot Pic Ouest. This high mountain looms up just above the col du Lautaret, is latterly full of nice faces and couloirs for experienced ski tourers. Even the ?normal? route boosta a nice 100 meters couloir which is just a little steeper then 45°. The ultimate playground for great riding and that from November to June
Ascent
The col du Lauteret is a real playground for skiers, you can find a lot of different couloirs and faces to ski. The most classic line is the classic north face, but if you are looking for fresh powder and you open your eyes you will find lots of possibilities. For the classic North Face climb up the big and nice north face around 30°. After a small flat area climb a nice couloir, 100 m of 45° or pass a small ridge just below this couloir to climb a less steep but avalanche prone face (above a rock face).
Above the couloir (or face) climb to the summit (often hard packed snow, crampons useful
Descent
Ski down the first couple of meters from the summit (not always possible) and ski the couloir or the face (often less tracked) and traverse back to the flat area. From their on it is straight forward to the Col du Lautaret, big turns possible!
If you have some power left, climb up to the col les Clochettes, and ski down the other side to get 770 meters of extra skiing, hitch hike back up to the col where you left your car.
Information
Difficulty (5-level scale): ****
Special dangers: -
Average steepness/maximum steepness: 40°
Exposure: N
Altitude difference start and finish: 2.000 m | 3112 m
Altitude difference uphill and downhill: 1100 m | 1100 m
Duration: 2-6h
Best season: November - June
Accommodation: variouses in La Grave or Serre Chevalier
Addresses: -
Directions: From Grenoble follow the signs to Briançon until you arrive on the Col du Lautaret.
Topographical maps: IGN Meije Pelvoux 3436 ET
