Discover ski touring during a weekend in Aussois

In Haute Maurienne Vanoise, the ski touring season lasts until May, or even June, offering a unique opportunity to explore pristine landscapes. A weekend in Aussois to try your hand at this activity is the perfect adventure for those who love the great outdoors and authentic experiences.

This micro-adventure invites you to discover ski touring in a spectacular setting, with the Refuge de la Dent Parrachée serving as your base camp. Nestled in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, this refuge is the perfect starting point for a gentle immersion in the mountains, far from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What’s on the agenda? Two days of adventure, camaraderie, and breathtaking scenery.

Led by Clément, a high-mountain guide, we set off on our adventure from the Aussois ski lifts. The sun, already shining brightly on this spring morning, pleasantly warms the air as we gain altitude thanks to the hiker’s pass, which allows us to quickly climb the mountainside. From there, the view of the Rateau d’Aussois and the imposing Dent Parrachée unfolds before us, like a living painting, magnified by the soft morning light.

Our destination: the Fournache Glacier, a hidden gem nestled deep in the mountains, where the pristine snow and tranquil surroundings offer a sense of purity and serenity. The virgin powder, freshly deposited by an easterly wind typical of the valley, invites us to leave our first tracks in this magical setting. As we climb through this winter landscape, the atmosphere is almost surreal, like a dream where the mountain seems to speak to us.

After an easy hike with a 500-meter elevation gain, we descend through magnificent mountain valleys, fully enjoying the spring snow gliding beneath our skis. Then we head to the mountain hut, where Franck, who has been the caretaker here for 40 years, is waiting for us. There, time seems to stand still.The warm, mountain-hut atmosphere is immediately palpable.

Gathered around a large table, we share an aperitif and a simple but delicious meal—a moment of genuine connection, far from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The warmth and mountain spirit are palpable, and the evening drags on in a relaxed atmosphere filled with laughter.

After a restful night, lulled by the silence of the mountains, we wake up to a thin layer of snow, perfectly untouched. The day promises to be beautiful, and our destination for the day is Lac du Génépy, a hidden lake above the mountain hut, whose breathtaking beauty awaits us.

Once again, the sun rises over pristine slopes, and the fresh snow beckons us to make the first tracks. Step by step, under the watchful eye of our guide, we slowly climb the mountain, using the Pointe de l’Echelle and the Râteau d’Aussois as landmarks.

The view from the lake is majestic: on the horizon, the peak of the neighboring resort of La Norma, framed bythe Aiguille de Scolette and the Pointe de Longecote, creates a panorama of rare beauty.

After taking in the view, we begin our descent, guided by Clément through secluded, rarely visited valleys. Every turn in the virgin snow is a true delight, and we descend to the Refuge du Fond d’Aussois, before skirting the Plan d’Amont and Plan d’Aval dams, then joining the resort’s slopes. An adventure rich in thrills, discoveries, and excitement.

While ski touring appeals to many for its authentic, wild, and athletic nature, it’s important to remember that it’s an off-piste activity that carries the inherent risks of the mountains. Adhering to safety rules is therefore essential to fully enjoy this activity.

• Hire a guide: Although ski touring doesn’t require any specific training, it’s highly recommended that you be accompanied by a mountain professional, such as Clément, who knows the area inside and out and can guide you safely. Not only will he help you enjoy the best routes, but he’ll also teach you the best practices to follow to stay safe.
• Be properly equipped: Whenever you go off-piste, it is essential to be well equipped. An avalanche transceiver, a shovel, and a probe are essential for your safety. These three tools allow you to locate and dig out someone buried under the snow. We also recommend investing in an airbag backpack, which provides additional protection in the event of an avalanche.
• Check the snow conditions: Before setting out, it is crucial to check the weather forecast and the Avalanche Risk Report. The latter will provide you with information on local conditions, including the areas most at risk of avalanches, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast, this adventure in Aussois will let you discover the joys of ski touring in an exceptional setting, while learning to follow essential mountain safety rules. A micro-adventure that’s both athletic and poetic—perfect for a weekend getaway.