Oisans is a country made of mountains, waters and deep valleys. No less than 600 frozen waterfalls are listed there. So, welcome to the kingdom of ice waterfalls!
Climb the winter
Climbing an icefall in winter is a demanding experience. Sporty, committed and full of challenges, this discipline fascinates with its aesthetics. Depending on the shapes, the play of light and the hues that the ice takes, each ascent transports you to a new universe. An ephemeral and fragile, almost magical bond is then created between you and the white wall, and gives the impression of grasping the elusive.
Directory
Ice climbing professionals
Supervised outings on the
Icefalls
Beginner or experienced climber, discover all the supervised outings to climb the most beautiful ice falls in Oisans.
Initiation à l’Escalade sur Glace
Cascades de glace dans la Vallée du Vénéon
Escalade sur glace avec le Bureau des Guides
Cascade de glace
Did you know ?
The pioneers of icefalls en Oisans, Godefroy Perroux, Bernard Miard, Jean-Marc Tellé, Philippe Allardin, Paulo Grobel and François Damilano, marked a turning point in la discipline from the end of 19s70. These climbers made first ascents at major sites, like the Combe de Malawal or Autumn Symphony. They have also contributed to the equipment and popularization of these routes. GThanks to their pioneering work, Oisans has become a mecca for ice climbing, attracting novice and expert climbers alike.
FAQ
All your questions about ice climbing
Where can you go ice climbing in Oisans?
Oisans is an ideal region for practicing ice climbing.
- La Grave is one of the most famous spots for ice climbing in Oisans. With many waterfalls of varying levels, it is a popular place for experienced climbers.
- The Devil's Valley, located near Saint-Christophe-en-Oisans, is an area with a high concentration of waterfalls accessible and suitable for different levels.
- Villar-d'Arêne is another key location for ice climbing, particularly with the “Cœur des Aiguilles” ice climbing.
- La Berarde is a good starting point for accessing many ice falls and offers an impressive setting.
- Le Col d’Ornon is a popular site for beginners with relatively accessible ice falls.
- The Grandes Rousses massif, particularly in Alpe d'Huez and Oz-en-Oisans, offers a variety of ice falls for different levels, with spots close to ski resorts that allow you to combine different winter activities.
Wherever you go, it is essential to hire a guide.
What is icefall?
Ice climbing consists of climbing frozen walls, formed by waterfalls solidified in winter. It is a derivative of classic climbing and mountaineering, but on a terrain of natural or artificial ice..
Is ice climbing dangerous?
Yes, it can be dangerous due to the extreme conditions (intense cold, quality of the ice) and the risks of collapse. It is essential to properly assess the condition of the ice and to practice with appropriate equipment and under the supervision of a guide..
Who can practice ice climbing?
It is accessible to almost everyone, including beginners. However, good physical condition and basic climbing knowledge are recommended. There are introductory programs for beginners.
What equipment is needed?
Equipment includes ice axes, crampons, a helmet, mountaineering boots, warm clothing, and gloves. Ice screws are also recommended for safety..
How is an icefall formed?
It forms when moving water, such as a waterfall or river, freezes due to cold, creating a wall of ice. Weather conditions and terrain configuration influence its formation.
How difficult are ice falls?
Difficulty varies depending on the slope, height, length and quality of the ice. Rating scales exist to classify the courses according to their technical difficulty and the commitment required..
Do you need any special skills for ice climbing?
Climbing skills, such as the use of crampons and ice axes, are necessary, but can be learned during introductory courses. Dry-tooling, a technique for climbing mixed surfaces (rock and ice), is becoming increasingly popular..
How to assess ice safety?
Safety depends on the thickness and quality of the ice. For example, blue, hard ice is ideal for climbing. It is recommended to test the strength with tools such as screws and to be wary of conditions that are too cold or unstable.
When is the best time to go ice climbing?
LThe winter season, between December and February, is usually the best time, when temperatures are low enough for the waterfalls to remain frozen.
