Back hike

Hiking at the Col d'Aussois

Aussois
Hiking at the Col d'Aussois - PNV - M. BEURIER

A gradual immersion into the rocky mountain landscape. Easily reach one of the Vanoise region's most famous mountain passes. If the sky is clear, a surprise awaits you up there, at 2,900 metres of altitude.

Description

Fearlessly enter Vanoise National Park for a gentle warm-up to kick off the hike. An early start is a good idea, that way you can calmly take your time getting to Fond d'Aussois refuge. Before starting your ascent, pause to observe the rather tame marmots going through their morning routine. A well-maintained trail amidst slabs and rocks takes you up alongside the Saint-Benoît torrent, which is often abundant in the early summer. Sheltered from the breeze, you'll gradually climb through the various alpine zones leading to the pass. All of a sudden, the immensity of the landscape starts to work their magic. Forget about the short grass and other wild flowers. This is a land where rocks reign supreme. On a clear day, look out for the peaks in the distance. Due north, the Roof of Europe reveals itself majestically. Now you're really spoiled: check out that unbeatable view of the Mont-Blanc!

Additional welcome

The duration of hiking trails is calculated using reference paces: 300 m/h ascent, 500 m/h descent and 4 km/h on the flat.

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

  • Minimum age: 12

Environments

  • Lake view
  • Mountain view
  • Mountain location
  • In a nature reserve
  • Presence of livestock and guard dogs

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

  • Distance 14.9km
  • Route type Round trip
  • Elevation gain 900m
  • Negative gradient 900m
  • Daily duration 05h45
  • Signposted itinerary Yes
  • Beaconing accuracy Mixed signposting (PR, PNV and GR)
  • Nature of the land Rock, Stone, Ground, Not suitable for strollers
  • Maximum altitude 2914m

Opening period

All year round.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

  • Subject to favorable weather

  • Subject to snow conditions

Spoken languages

  • French

Location

I'm going by car: park in the Carrière parking lot between the Plan d'Amont and Plan d'Aval dams.

Animals

Pets allowed : No

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

  • To guide you in the field, consult the "step-by-step" directional diagram provided in pdf.

Hiking at the Col d'Aussois
RD 108 - Parking de la Carrière 73500 Aussois
  • Distance 14.9km
  • Daily duration 05h45
  • Elevation gain 900m
  • Negative gradient 900m
Prepare your hike
Documents