Couloir en S

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Couloir en S is the most difficult and demanding descent proposed in this small selection of itineraries. This gully stretches down the entire NE face of the Aig. Rouges and opens up onto the easier angled slopes of the Grand Col. The difficulty of this itinerary depends very much on the prevailing snow conditions. A fall in fresh, stable snow bears no consequences, but a fall on hard snow or ice could be fatal. This itinerary is suitable therefore only for excellent skiers who are used to steep descents.

GETTING THERE

Bourg Saint Maurice is the ideal village to be based in since the stations of Les Arcs 1600, 1800 and 2000 can be easily reached either by car or cable car. To get there from Italy, drive through the Mt. Blanc tunnel and follow the signs, via Megève, to Albertville.

Continue southwards to Moutier and then drive up the Isérè valley to Bourg St. Maurice.

ACCESS

Take the lifts from Les Arcs to the top of the Aig. Rouges.

ROUTE

From the summit descend down the Villaroger piste. After an initial steep section the piste curves rightwards behind the Aig. Rouges crest. Leave the piste at this point, head towards this rocky crest and walk upwards for 40m to a fork. The gully begins on the opposite face. Although it is relatively wide, descend with care until you reach the slopes of the Grand Col.

DESCENT

This descent almost falls into the category of extreme skiing (slopes of 40-45°) and is thus suitable only for excellent skiers or good skiers accompanied by a Mountain Guide. The type and quality of the snow must be assessed carefully.

GEAR

Rope and ice axe

NOTES

For further information contact:
Tourist Office 79 41 55 45
Mountain Guides 79 07 71 19

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