La traversée des Grandes Rousses en ski de randonnée

With a departure from Pic Blanc, Pic Bayle (3465m) will be your first objective: the highest point of the massif with its gaining meter on the Etendard, it is after 1m of ascent that you will reach its summit. From there awaits you a superb descent on the Quirlies glacier alongside its magnificent seracs. A short climb to the Quirlies pass will give you access to the fabulous glacial cirque of Saint Sorlin, dominated by the Crêtes du Grand Sauvage, the Pic de l'Etendard, the Cimes de la Barbarate and de la Cochette. This is where the options open to you: from the pass, you can climb to the Pic de l'Etendard (300m), to descend towards the summit and the col de la Barbarate and be able to access its glacier by abseiling on its west face: for a varied atmosphere and scenery! But you can also extend your journey to the brèche or the cime de la Cochette for an exceptional and complete crossing of the Grandes Rousses. Magical!

A splendid itinerary, combining climbs in seal skins interspersed with exceptional descents in a wild setting, at an altitude constantly approaching 3000m for a positive elevation gain of around 1000m. What's more? A descent of 2000m of elevation gain to close this splendid journey to the heart of the highest peaks of the Rousses massif.

For anyone with a good level of skiing and able to descend slopes at 35°/40° in all snow. A first experience of ski touring is recommended. Long route, requiring good physical condition.

Subject to favorable weather conditions
Postponed in case of bad weather

Equipment provided: DVA, shovel, probe, harness, crampons if necessary.
Equipment to bring: skis, skins, knives, shoes. Rental possible at the resort.