Ski touring in La Grave
In the heart of a wild and unspoiled region, La Grave and Villar-d'Arêne are legendary destinations for ski touring. A variety of routes, including glaciers, hidden valleys, and spectacular views of the Écrins massif, await skiers seeking adventure, freedom, and authenticity.
Leave your mark
Explore exceptional areas on cross-country skis: Le Chazeletand the Emparis plateau, the Écrins National Park, the Lautaret and Galibier passes , or the glaciers of La Meije.
A true symbol of adventure and freedom, ski touring invites you to immerse yourself completely in the mountains. Far from the ski lifts and the hustle and bustle of resorts, it allows you to explore wild and unspoiled areas, at your own pace and in close contact with nature.
However, this activity requires thorough preparation: knowledge of the terrain, suitable equipment, and vigilance regarding weather conditions and avalanche risk are essential for safety.
Enjoy ski touring
The magic of Écrins at your fingertips
Find An outing with a mountain guide
Ski touring in winter terrain requires a solid knowledge of the mountains: knowing how to analyze conditions, assess the risks associated with the terrain, and identify areas exposed to avalanches is essential.
If you are a beginner or have limited experience, it is strongly recommended that you go with a mountain guide or an ESF instructor.
Thanks to their in-depth knowledge of the mountains and local conditions, the guide adapts the itinerary to suit the group's level and snow conditions, while teaching best safety practices. Equipped with the appropriate gear (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe), you can enjoy a safe environment that is conducive to learning and discovery.
Preparingfor yourski touring trip
Ski touring in winter requires rigorous preparation. Before each outing, it is essential to check the weather forecast, analyze the avalanche risk, and choose a route that is suited to your skill level, your mountain experience, and the current snow conditions.
Good anticipation also requires the right equipment and knowledge of the correct behavior to adopt in snowy terrain. If in doubt, or if you are a beginner, don't hesitate to call on mountain professionals: they will be able to guide and advise you, allowing you to set off with confidence.
What equipment is essential for ski touring? How can you prepare for your trip and stay safe? Read the advice of our mountain professionals from the Hautes Vallées – La Grave, La Clarée, and L'Izoard here.
Watch out for wildlife
- Dogs: It is best to leave your dog at home, because even well-trained dogs pose a threat to wildlife. If you do bring your dog with you, keep it on a leash. Dogs are not allowed in the Écrins National Park, even on a leash.
- Snowshoes: Making your own trail also means making THE trail. It's a responsibility: others will follow and may go even further...
- Skiing: Enjoy the slopes without disturbing wildlife by avoiding touching young tree shoots.
- Binoculars: To observe from a distance without disturbing them...
- Silence: To appreciate nature without noise...
The black grouse is one of the iconic species of the Alps that must be protected. Areas have been designated to limit disturbance during winter, so please avoid passing through these quiet zones.