Snowshoe itinerary: Le Monolithe via Aussois

Name: Snowshoe itinerary: Le Monolithe via Aussois
Address: Route départemental 83, Aussois, 73500
Telephone: 04 79 05 99 06
Price range: Free access.

Aussois

Along a peaceful path, the trail winds through the pine trees before revealing the Monolith, an immense column of limestone rising out of the forest. Its slender, almost unreal silhouette dominates the undergrowth like a silent guardian.

Description

A gentle stroll, where the walker's path leads to one of the valley's most astonishing natural wonders.

Additional welcome

Check the weather conditions and avalanche risk before you set out (weather services, mountain rescue services, professionals, tourist office...).
Make sure your gear and clothing are appropriate for the forecast.
Postpone your activity if the weather forecast is poor. Follow safety instructions and do not stray from marked trails in winter.

Environments

Mountain view
Mountain location
10 - 20 min from a train station by car
Less than 10 minutes from a bus stop on foot
10–20-minute walk to the bus stop

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

Distance 6.3 km
Route type LOOP
Elevation gain 180m
Negative gradient 180m
Daily duration 2:30 a.m.
Signposted itinerary Yes
Beaconing accuracy Signposted Route No. 2
Nature of the land Non-groomed itinerary
Maximum altitude 1685m

Opening period

Daily from December 15 to April 1.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

Subject to favorable weather
Subject to snow conditions

Location

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Itinerary

Documents

The Monolith by Aussois: Full Information (PDF)

Animals

Pets allowed : No

The route includes a section within the Vanoise National Park, where animals are not allowed.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

1/ From the Plan de la Croix parking lot, follow the Le Monolithe route on the groomed trail to reach the 1ère Combe, then take the small path on your left to reach the Piste de Jomier.
2/ 0 h 25 - Once on the Piste de Jomier, continue toward Le Monolithe and follow the path that winds along the edge of the forest to the next junction, about 2 km further on.
3/ 1 hr - At this intersection, continue straight ahead, passing successively through the Croisement du milieu and the Vallon de la Source, following the Le Monolithe route along the middle path, before arriving at the Parking du Monolithe.
4/ 1 hr 30 min - From the parking lot, head toward the welcome signs, then up the path above the groomed track to reach the Monolithe site. Enjoy the majestic 93-meter-high Cargneol Needle. Descend to the right and continue to the cross-country ski trail junction.
5/ 1 hr 40 min - At this junction, turn right and head up the slight incline on the groomed trail. Continue this way until you reach the Piste de Jomier, keeping to the side to respect the cross-country ski tracks.
6/ 2 hrs 15 mins - From the Piste de Jomier, follow the shared groomed trail back to the Plan de la Croix parking lot.
7/ 2 hrs 30 mins - Plan de la Croix parking lot.