22/06/2023
If you are a ski lover and have fallen in love with the majestic French Alps, you should have heard of Grand Couloir Courchevel. It’s considered one of the scariest skiing tracks in the region. Conquering this well-known legendary ski run will be the most exciting experience you’ve ever had as a professional skier. Scroll down right now to see what will be waiting for you there!
Grand Couloir Courchevel: What Makes It A Legend?
The Grand Couloir in Courchevel is often considered a legendary ski run for several reasons. Let’s dive in.
An Overview
Grand Couloir Courchevel is one of the three small and narrow valleys in the region. Travellers can easily access the Grand Couloir from the top of the Saulire by taking a cable car (the 140-man Saulire telepherique). People usually leave after getting out of the lift, and only 5% of travellers stay for the ski. And all of them are expert skiers. Grand Couloir is the only one of the 3 Couloirs turned into an ungroomed patrolled, and avalanche-protected off-piste run.
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Being a legendary off-piste route, it offers a narrow ridge to start your skiing and then a steep and deep slope to complete your journey. This grizzly off-piste gives you a chance to overlook the Courchevel 1850s village. You’ll see deep moguls form everywhere; thus, falls are frequently seen. The good thing is there are rare cases of serious injuries, yet, keep in mind that this dramatic run is only for experts. Intermediate or weak advanced skiers need to have a professional instructor with them if they wish to attempt this piste.
Here is some information you should know about this most challenging ski run:
- Length: 630 meters
- Descent: 340 meters
- Altitude at the summit: 2,700 meters
- Average gradient: 55%
- Maximum gradient: 80%
Since it requires a lot of skiing skills and strong fresh legs to complete the piste, you’d better not come to this place at the end of the day. Make it a priority if you want to have a successful conquest.
Skiing Ability
Grand Couloir Courchevel can be compared with the Swiss Wall in Morzine- Avoriaz, one of the most notorious ski runs in the Alps. It’s definitely not suitable for those who have a faint heart. However, for those who mastered the black runs, it’s an appropriate challenge.
The descent of around 80% may make skiers hesitate at first, but it does not mean the slope is not achievable. The most difficult part of skiing through is the narrow piste starting from the Saulire gondola crossing the Grand Couloir. The run can be bumpy or not, depending on the thickness of the snow. Sometimes, there cannot be enough space to pass somebody. So, you’d better leave enough (or even plenty) room with the one in front of you.
As we all know, Grand Couloir is a legend in Courchevel, so get ready for the falls anytime. Don’t misjudge this narrow track. It’s not rare to see people struggling here. So, be well-prepared.
The Descent
After successfully conquering the narrow track across from the Saulire gondola, it’s time to face the short stretch of moguls leading to a small bowl before reaching the giant entrance.
Peering over the edge to look down can give you butterflies. It’s 600-meter length and 340-meter descent with the scariest moguls. That’s why the slope is only for experts who know how to find a way down with the least trouble.
Most of the fall foul is due to an unlimited number of moguls appearing on the way. As I mentioned before, you should not leave this slope to the last. It requires a lot of leg endurance and strength, and if you can’t control the situation well, you’ll be wiped out.
However, look at the situation in a positive way. It’s a good chance to show your perfect skiing skills to those who are on the piste below or sitting at a restaurant at the top of the Verdons ski lift. They can see the Couloir and also can see you. Be ready to get some admiring eyes and compliments from others.
On the midway lowering down to the piste below, the slope is more comfortable to ski with fewer moguls and a lower gradient. If you’re not too tired and want more adrenalin, take another go by passing the red and short route to the top of the Saulire again.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Grand Couloir in Courchevel:
What Skiing Level Do You Need To Conquer Grand Couloir Courchevel?
Grand Couloir is the steepest black run in the 3 Valleys. It’s certainly not a good choice for beginners. Even someone who is intermediate and close to an advanced level should not go there without a professional guide. But if you’re an expert loving to win a new challenge, this slope is for you.
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What Are The Steepest Slopes in the Alps?
There is a list of the most challenging black pistes in the Alps. Some of the most well-known names are Kandahar in Germany, Streif, Lange Zug, and Harakiri in Austria, Lauberhorn and Mont Fort in Switzerland, and Chavanette in France.
Best Ski Resorts Near Grand Couloir?
There are other resorts around Grand Couloir offering different ski runs suitable for varying levels of skiers.
- Zen Zone Courchevel or Zen Zone Courchevel Moriond: If you’re a beginner or go with children, check out the Zen Zone Courchevel or Zen Zone Courchevel Moriond.
- Family Park Vernon: The place with both small and big slopes is perfect for all family members.
- The Combe de la Saulire: If you are looking for something professional, consider the beautiful slope, Combe de la Saulire, where you can have fun and enjoy the stunning scenic views.
- Freestyler Fun Park: For both beginners and advanced levels, Freestyler Fun Park is a good suggestion.
The Takeaway
Grand Couloir Courchevel is a perfect choice for professional skiers. Completing this long, steep, and ungroomed off-piste run requires lots of preparation. It will be amazing if you’re the first of the day who take a slide, yet, there will be much more fun and challenging with more moguls formed, bringing you unforgettable memories with this legendary slope.