Ecrins of Freedom—Freeride Skiing in the Ecrins Region—3 Days, 5 Nights, Radiating Outward

Ages 14 and up

Day 1: Arrival and equipment check

You’ll pick up your equipment from the rental shop and settle into your bed-and-breakfast to enjoy a delicious meal.

Meal and overnight stay at a guesthouse in Pelvoux-Vallouise.

Day 2: Warm-up hike

Head to Les Têtes, where you’ll enjoy a 360° view of the entire Écrins and Queyras mountain ranges. This summit is accessible only by cross-country skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing. You’ll take in majestic scenery as you ascend through the larch forest, and once you reach the heights, you’ll find yourself immersed in a Scandinavian-like atmosphere.

Elevation gain: 297 m

Distance: 4 km

Activity time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Meal and overnight stay at a lodge in Pelvoux-Vallouise.

Day 3: Time to Have Some Fun

Strap on your skis at the Pelvoux base area to begin your ascent. The route begins in the forest, offering a serene atmosphere, and as you climb, the landscape gradually opens up, allowing you to shed a layer and enjoy superb views of the Montbrison massif. Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an exceptional panorama of Mont Pelvoux and the Vallouise Valley—an ideal spot for a picnic. The descent will take place on the trails of the Pelvoux ski area.

Elevation gain: 600 m

Distance: 5 km

Activity time: 3 hours

Day 4: Enjoy the scenery and take it all in!

The route, starting from Puy Saint Vincent at 1,400 m, begins in a forest of larch and birch trees. The entire route is marked with “rando ski” signs and markers. There’s no way to get lost—the path is clearly marked. Several shortcuts are available along the ascent, leading to the resort’s alpine ski runs. You’ll be hiking through the forest for three-quarters of the route, and the slopes are never far away—which is very reassuring! At the end of the route, the forest gives way to a beautiful ridgeline offering spectacular panoramic views. The view of the neighboring mountains of the Fournel Valley is breathtaking.

Elevation gain: 611 m

Distance: 5 km

Activity time: 3 hours

Day 5: Departure

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on new adventures.

The suggested routes are among the “must-dos” of the Pays des Ecrins!

– You organize your own trip by contacting the partners listed in the documents below.

– You can pick up ski touring route maps at local visitor centers or contact us to purchase a digital roadbook for 24 euros.

– You are responsible for your own safety.

– Never set out alone; at the very least, inform someone close to you of your outing and your route.

– Deviating from the route is strongly discouraged, as it may compromise your safety and makes you personally liable.

– Do not rely on existing tracks for navigation; rely solely on the physical signage, such as directional markers and other signs.

– You are traveling through a fragile natural environment; please help preserve it, particularly by strictly following the marked trails.

– Be aware of rapid changes in weather. In case of poor visibility, return to base and reschedule your trip.

For emergency assistance: 112