Hiking - Trek Nature Grand Paradis Vanoise - Glacier Route Stage A
The route traverses the junction of two protected areas, between the Aosta Valley and Savoy. Lake Tsanteleina, the vertical walls of the Grande Parei, and the glacier ascent are the major points of interest on this glacial odyssey.
In the first part of the route, the trail reaches a vast amphitheater of rocks and sparse meadows. The atmosphere becomes solemn as the rock walls rise and dominate. With its milky blue waters, Glacial Lake Tsanteleina offers one of the most beautiful views of the itinerary. The glacier ascent provides an exceptional panorama of the border range. Throughout the entire route, the wild fauna and flora promise great observations.
From Refuge Benevolo to the start of the Tsanteleina Glacier
Upon leaving Refuge Benevolo, turn right onto the east side of trail 13C. Begin a long traverse that leads to the start of the glacier.
Leave trail 13C, which loops back towards Refuge Benevolo, by continuing straight ahead, making sure to pass to the right of Lake Tsanteleina. Straight ahead lies the Col de Rhêmes, which passes between the Roc du Fond and the Pointe Bazel or Calabre.
Continue straight ahead, taking a circular path to the left until the foot of the glacier.
The Tsanteleina Glacier
After leaving the path, the glacier ascent is on a gentle and regular slope, but more crevassed in the final section.
From Col De Rhêmes to Refuge du Prariond
On the French side of the col, only about 200m of the Rhêmes Calabre glacier remain. Through the rocks and some persistent snowfields, a path emerges. Fork (2900m) left, towards 2 clearly visible cairns. Descend onto the southeast slope into this scree field marked with cairns and small switchbacks until the bottom of the Tenn de Rhêmes valley.
Cross the Malpasset gorges to reach the Prariond valley plateau, where the refuge is located.
Choose a route adapted to your physical condition, motivation, and experience; consider those accompanying you; check the daily weather forecast and do not hesitate to turn back if conditions are unfavorable.
Never go alone, check your equipment and personal insurance, and book your spot at the refuge.
Recommended equipment:
Map
Water and food
Appropriate warm clothing
Harness
Rope
Crampons
Helmet
Ice axe
Headlamp
Crevasse rescue kit
In the first part of the route, the trail reaches a vast amphitheater of rocks and sparse meadows. The atmosphere becomes solemn as the rock walls rise and dominate. With its milky blue waters, Glacial Lake Tsanteleina offers one of the most beautiful views of the itinerary. The glacier ascent provides an exceptional panorama of the border range. Throughout the entire route, the wild fauna and flora promise great observations.
From Refuge Benevolo to the start of the Tsanteleina Glacier
Upon leaving Refuge Benevolo, turn right onto the east side of trail 13C. Begin a long traverse that leads to the start of the glacier.
Leave trail 13C, which loops back towards Refuge Benevolo, by continuing straight ahead, making sure to pass to the right of Lake Tsanteleina. Straight ahead lies the Col de Rhêmes, which passes between the Roc du Fond and the Pointe Bazel or Calabre.
Continue straight ahead, taking a circular path to the left until the foot of the glacier.
The Tsanteleina Glacier
After leaving the path, the glacier ascent is on a gentle and regular slope, but more crevassed in the final section.
From Col De Rhêmes to Refuge du Prariond
On the French side of the col, only about 200m of the Rhêmes Calabre glacier remain. Through the rocks and some persistent snowfields, a path emerges. Fork (2900m) left, towards 2 clearly visible cairns. Descend onto the southeast slope into this scree field marked with cairns and small switchbacks until the bottom of the Tenn de Rhêmes valley.
Cross the Malpasset gorges to reach the Prariond valley plateau, where the refuge is located.
Choose a route adapted to your physical condition, motivation, and experience; consider those accompanying you; check the daily weather forecast and do not hesitate to turn back if conditions are unfavorable.
Never go alone, check your equipment and personal insurance, and book your spot at the refuge.
Recommended equipment:
Map
Water and food
Appropriate warm clothing
Harness
Rope
Crampons
Helmet
Ice axe
Headlamp
Crevasse rescue kit