Two possible summits in the Oisans range offering magnificent views and an ideal introduction to snow, ice and mixed terrain routes at the foot of the Queen Meije.
A full day of mountaineering and training close to the Meije.
Clearly visible from La Grave, the Râteau is the closest neighbour to the Queen Meije. Its west ridge offers a very varied route between glacier approach, snow slopes and increasingly exposed but never difficult rocky outcrops (3+ max, good rock). It is an educational route, which requires the rope team to combine a range of belaying techniques: specific rope work for the glacier section on the Girose glacier, then progression with a tight rope or by pitches in the final rocky section. At the summit, the view of the entire Écrins massif, La Meije and the village of La Grave is simply unique: a dizzying 2,500 metres separate us here from the bottom of the valley.
Dominating the Girose glacier, the Pic de La Grave offers a majestic view of the entire Écrins massif, notably the Dôme des Écrins, the Barre and the impressive left bank of the Vallon de la Selle. Technically accessible and easy to approach, climbing its elegant north-east face and short north-west ridge is a perfect introduction to mountaineering (early season). From the arrival point of the La Grave la Meije cable car at the Col des Ruillans at 3,200 metres, we can already see our goal on the other side of the glacier: the Pic de La Grave and its characteristic rocky triangle stand like a sentinel, dominating the Col de la Lauze in the distance. Its elegant north-east face is obvious: a magnificent steep snow slope, it rises about 150 metres before reaching a small pass and the short north-west ridge that leads to the summit. We approached it via the moderate slopes of the Girose glacier, roped together, and reached the bergschrund. A key passage on the route, the bergschrund is interesting to cross and may require the use of two traction ice axes: the slope that follows it, steep at 45°, is sometimes icy.
After arriving at the col des Ruillans (3200m) via the téléphérique, we will set foot roped up on the Girose glacier. Once having crossed the bergschrund, we quickly reach the beginning of the ridge. After some mixed terrain, the hike turns out to be fairly easy on good quality rock. The hike down happens to be slightly below the ridge, with a succession of walls and ledges allowing us to reach the mixed terrain of the ascent.
560m vertical – between 4 and 5 hours
Outing with a certified mountain guide or instructor
Professional Civil Liability Insurance
Group technical gear (rope…)
Personal Accident Insurance
Lift Pass (possibility to purchase at the Guide Office in the morning)
Water Bottle or thermos, food and snacks
helmet
harness
Mountain boots that work with crampons
Classic mountaineering ice axe. Crampons with ANTI-SNOW system that fit your mountaineering boots.
backpack (around 35L)
Picnic for during the day
Appropriate clothing for your activity and the weather
You have already done your first ascents using crampons and ice axe or climbed your first routes on
rock. If the thought of progression in the mountains tickles you we are here to accompany you on more
ambitious climbs.
You are fit and you practice sports regularly. Imagine hiking 3 to 5 hours at a slow pace with a light
backpack. (picnic, water and clothes for the day)