Your first steps in the high mountains surrounded by the magnificent La Meije massif
La Meije massif is a gorgeous setting for your first steps in the world of the high mountains. The massive north face of La Meije stands 2500 meters above the village of la Grave. Glaciers, schistous rocks and larch forests form a unique environment. You are a keen hiker but dream of exploring higher altitudes. These 2 days starting from la Grave will take you from middle mountain areas to the Girose glacier after a night in the Chancel mountain hut (2508m). It is an ideal opportunity for a gentle approach of alpinism and high altitudes. This hike is accessible from the age of 8/10.
Jour 1
We will spend a busy first day, during which many topics will be addressed: fauna and flora of alpine areas, glacial and geological structures specific to this massif, local economy of those inhabited high valleys… From the village of La Grave, we will first hike among a vast forest of larch trees, until we reach a mountain pasture area. The Puy Vachier lake (2382m), enshrined in a rock amphitheater, offers outstanding views of the Plateau d’Emparis, La Meije, the Aiguilles d’Arves, the Trois Evêchés… Perched above this lake, the Chancel mountain hut (2508m) is a warm and friendly stopover.
About 1000m vertical – between 3 and 4 hours.
Night in the hut.
Jour 2
We make an early start and reach the Col du Lac (2983m) in about one hour and a half among a mineral landscape. We meet our mountain guide there: he provides us with the necessary equiment for glacier walking. From this spot, we can enjoy a full view of the Girose glacier and quickly set foot on it. We discover this unique world, hiking among seracs, crevasses and bergschrunds. We also observe living organisms which managed to grow and survive at these altitudes. It is once again the opportunity to address numerous topics. We eventually hike to the Col des Ruillans (3200m), from which we take the Téléphérique des Glaciers de la Meije back down to la Grave.
700m vertical – about 2 hours.
Outing with a certified mountain guide or instructor
Outing with a certified hiking guide
Professional Civil Liability Insurance
Meal costs for clients and guide
Lift Pass
Picnic for during the day
Lodging costs for clients and guide
Group technical gear (rope…)
Classic mountaineering ice axe. Crampons with ANTI-SNOW system that fit your mountaineering boots.
Personal Accident Insurance
harness
helmet
Appropriate clothing for your activity and the weather
drinks
backpack (around 35L)
Sticks
Sleeping bag liner (to be used with the provided blankets at the refuges) and small toiletry kit (no showers in the refuge)
Small first aid kit for your personal needs and that contains material in case of blisters
Mountain boots that work with crampons
Water Bottle or thermos, food and snacks
sun glasses, cap and sun cream