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North Face via the Grands Couloirs

4A | D | IV Edit route
This is the classic and best-known mountaineering line on Pointe de la Grande Casse. It is a serious alpine snow-and-ice route on the north face, with objective hazards from rockfall and avalanche conditions depending on season and temperature. The route is typically climbed in stable early-morning conditions when the couloirs are firm. Upper sections can require mixed climbing and careful route-finding to reach the summit ridge. It is not a hiking route and demands full alpine equipment and experience. Conditions can change quickly, and the face is often considered a committing objective.

Route Outline

Valley approach to the north side of Pointe de la Grande Casse
Reach the base of the north face and the Grands Couloirs
Climb the snow/ice couloirs and upper face to the summit ridge
Follow the final ridge to the summit
Descend by the ascent route

More routes on Pointe de la Grande Casse

South Ridge

3A | AD | III
The South Ridge is a documented alpine ridge route on the peak and is generally less snow-committing than the north-face lines. It is a mixed rock-and-snow climb with sustained exposed sections and route-finding on the crest. The difficulty is mainly in the steepness, exposure, and the quality of the rock rather than in long technical pitches. In early season it may hold snow and ice, increasing the seriousness of the ascent. It is a true mountaineering route and requires competence on exposed alpine terrain. Conditions on the ridge can vary significantly with snow cover and freeze-thaw cycles.
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