Discover the Vallons de la Meije and the Couloirs du Lac

The Vallons de la Meije are the two classic descents of la Grave-la Meije ski resort, providing a perfect opportunity for a first discovery of this legendary place, as well as a good initiation to off-piste skiing. La Grave is indeed a paradise for freeride lovers: a lift will take you to an elevation of 3200m (10,500ft) and from there, you can enjoy more than 2000 meters (6,400ft) of vertical descent in a wild high mountain environment. It is also possible to take a ski lift to the Dôme de la Lauze at 3568m (11,400ft). The highest point of la Grave-la Meije allows you to discover on skis the Girose glacier, one of the largest existing glaciers in the French Alps. The upper part of the glacier offers gentle slopes which are pleasant to ride, with stunning views of la Meije, the Grandes Rousses massif and Mont Blanc in the background. You will not find any marked or secured slopes in la Grave, instead you will ski untracked snow under your own responsibility. From the top of the lift at the Gare des Ruillans, you have the choice between the Vallons de la Meije and the Vallons de Chancel. If you choose the first itinerary, you will ski below the Meije and Râteau glaciers in a stunning environment of seracs and rocky bars. Should you pick the second option, it is a mix of more gentle open slopes and of slightly steep couloirs such as Patou, the Couloir du Lac and Banane which all end up by the Puy Vachier lake. This descent also provides the opportunity to take a break at the Chancel moutain hut (2508m / 8000ft), ideally located on an outcrop offering jaw-dropping views. Both itineraries reach the intermediary station of the Peyrou d'Amont (2400m / 7700ft) and from there, you can ski down to the village of La Grave among a vast forest of larch trees, choosing between different options.