Barre des Écrins

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With its 4,102 m altitude, the Barre des Écrins is the emblematic summit of the massif. Invisible from the valley, it is revealed only to those who dare to venture into the high mountains. To get there: head for the Pré de Madame Carle, then the Blanc glacier… accompanied by a guide.

A multi-stage climb

• Departure from the Pré de Madame Carle (1874 m), accessible by car or shuttle from Ailefroide.

• Follow the marked trail to the Glacier Blanc hut (2542 m), passing by Tuckett Lake. Glacial atmosphere guaranteed.
• The next day, climb to the Écrins refuge (3170 m), a strategic base camp facing La Barre.
• The summit is reached at daybreak, roped up, crampons on your feet, with 1000 m of difference in altitude to climb. An adventure reserved for well-prepared mountaineers.

Preparation & Safety

• Book a mountain guide: safety, supervision and transmission are part of the trip.
• Equipment: helmet, rope, crampons, ice axe, warm and suitable clothing.
• Physical condition: good endurance + altitude training.
• Acclimatization: plan 2 nights around 2,500 m to avoid altitude sickness.

Respect this fragile site: stay on the routes, leave no trace.

The Barre des Écrins is more than a summit: it is an encounter with the high mountains, a personal challenge, a pure emotion.