Educational snow in the Col des Fours

After yesterday's glorious powder tease, it was back to reality today as we tackled some tricky changeable snow in the Col des Fours. It was difficult to tell how the snow was going to react underfoot from one turn to the next, which made for some less than elegant skiing (thanks Jean for making me look good!)

However, the Col des Fours is a stunningly beautiful morning's expedition. The walk up takes about 90mins, rising from 2500m to 3000m, and most of it is sun drenched (note to self: less layers next time). The panoramic view from the Col itself is one of the highlights of day tours in this area, with Italy to the south, and the Vanoise National Park to the north. So even if the snow is not perfect it is a wonderful off piste experience.

The forecast is for more clear skies, both day and night, into next week. Could this be the winter that never was?

Photo: Jean Ribart
Skier: Gideon Miller