Today we would go back to the col du Pre where we had recce'd earlier this year in Spring. Chris and Steph joined me, whilst Toby, Bryon, M-J and Dom headed for Areche, and a day chasing each other on the mountain runs.
We drove up the road in chilly shadows, and found the last parking slot at the point where the road became impassable. There were a large number of vehicles here .. presumably all partaking of new year celebrations in the various chalets up the pass.
Setting off in the shadows .. looking into the pass, and also across to where the sun was just peaking over onto the Areches ski area.
We did not follow the route from last year, but kept into the base of the valley running down. there were lots of snowshoe tracks going upa dn plenty of skis coming down all which reduced the avalanche risk.
Nearing the top the turns got tighter, and the snow softer as the sun came up, but we still kept upa good rhythm.
The top .. a signpost, some picnic benches and a presentation board. we could also see the end of the track we followed last year, where it came out of the woods.
After pausing for our breath and taking the skins off we dropped back to a little chalet, just below the top (in the sun and with good views down the valley) for a bite to eat.
The descent was simply straight down the river bed ... the top section was a little heavy after hte suns melt of the last few days, but as we got lower we found a long section that had always been in shade, and this gave some good powder.
Back along the track to the van and much entertainment looking at the newcomers fighting for parking spaces, and effectively moving on only a single track road
Trip Track
