Ski Mountaineering

The luxury of the infinite space, in safety

La Thuile Ski Mountaineering

The vast expanse of our slopes extends beyond the boundaries of the marked trails to encompass off-piste terrain – an uncharted realm for those seeking the true essence of off-track mountain adventures.
Climbing and conquering the summit in serene, snow-covered landscapes is an experience to be cherished with utmost respect and safety, often guided by La Thuile's expert mountain guides, ready to help you discover the most captivating routes.
This is ski mountaineering in La Thuile! From accessible paths to more rugged trails, there are countless opportunities amidst the majestic peaks surrounding La Thuile.

Links and further information

🔗 Check the trail openings

La Thuile ski mountaineering: a signposted and safe cross-border route

Starting from the 2022/23 winter season, ski mountaineering in La Thuile has become international. As a matter of fact, a new route now connects the Italian side of La Thuile with the French side of La Rosière. Specifically, the new route runs from Les Suches to the Belvedere pass, offering groomed and safe conditions throughout.
For those with a cross-border ski pass, navigating the route is simple: take the “Carabiniers” slope down to the Chardonnay chairlift, which leads to Fort de la Traversette, and from there, ski down to La Rosière.

Alternatively, starting from La Rosière, you have three options that all converge at Fort de la Traversette. From here, descend to the Bellecombe ski lift, which, along with Bellecombe 2, leads to the Belvedere pass, from where you can ski down to La Thuile.

Both routes can serve as return paths if you started from the opposite side.

From Italy to France

Departure and arrival DMC gondola
Arrival Belvedere pass
Length of course 3.6 km
Elevation gain. 382 m

Download GPX track

From France to Italy

Departure from La Rosière village
Arrival at Fort de la Traversette
Length 4 km
Elevation gain 540 mt

Download GPX track

Free routes

Colle San Carlo – Colle della Croce Route

This off-piste route starts from the Colle San Carlo parking area (1,951 meters) and partially follows the summer trail leading to Lake Arpy.

It does not present particular technical difficulties, except for the need to carefully assess snow conditions and avalanche risk. The route crosses a picturesque forest of larch, spruce, and Swiss stone pine before reaching wide open slopes near the lake. The total elevation gain is 450 meters.

Colle della Croce is a privileged viewpoint offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.

⚠️ Warning: The route is neither marked nor officially maintained.

Before undertaking this itinerary, it is essential to consult qualified professionals, carefully assess environmental and snow conditions, and, if necessary, contact local alpine guides.
This itinerary is part of the 6th edition of Skialp’Experience.

Les Suches – Mont Valaisan Route

The first part of the itinerary follows the groomed ski mountaineering track within the Espace San Bernardo ski area.

After reaching Colle del Belvedere, the off-piste section begins, where excellent technical and skiing skills are required, along with a careful evaluation of snowpack stability and avalanche risk (consult the regional avalanche bulletin).

You will traverse the exposed ridge leading to Punta Bella Valletta and continue across sometimes steep slopes up to Mont Valaisan. Depending on snow conditions, you may keep your skis on or need to switch to crampons.

This route is suitable for those with extensive mountain experience and strong skiing and mountaineering skills. The total elevation gain is approximately 700 meters.

⚠️ Warning: This route is also neither marked nor officially maintained.

Before undertaking it, it is essential to consult qualified professionals, carefully assess environmental and snow conditions, and, if necessary, contact local alpine guides.

Links and further information

🔗 Alpine guides in La Thuile

🔗 Download recent avalanche bulletins

La Thuile: Experience the Most Authentic Mountain Responsibly

In La Thuile, the mountains mean freedom and achievement but they are also a demanding environment where preparation and caution make all the difference. Safety begins with awareness: before heading out ski touring or off-piste, it is essential to check the weather and avalanche bulletin, choose routes suited to your ability level, and respect an environment that can change rapidly.

Proper equipment is fundamental: an avalanche transceiver (ARTVA), shovel, and probe are indispensable tools, along with technical clothing and careful planning. Relying on local alpine guides allows you to enjoy the experience with greater safety while learning how to read and understand the terrain.

Finally, mindset matters. Knowing when to turn back, staying together as a group, and not being driven by euphoria are key principles. In the mountains, the winner is not the one who reaches the summit first, but the one who returns to the valley with a smile.

Discover all the winter sports of La Thuile!

La Thuile offers the possibility of doing all the winter sports you want, moving a few kilometers within one of the most versatile and technologically advanced areas in Italy.