Haut Giffre - Pointe de la Terrasse
Outing date: 2013-01-06
Altitude of access point: 1350m
Maximum altitude: 2734m
Elevation gain/loss: +1400m
Snow depth at 1350m: 40cm
Snow depth at 2734m: 130cm with 20cm of compacted/winded snow or hart snow
Weather: sunny
Departure/arrival time: 08:45/16:45
The departure point was in the village of Le Buet (Haute-Savoie) next to Vallorcine. Benoît would like to show me the Terrasse sector and the North East chute of the Pointe de la Terrasse. This sector is located in the Haut-Giffre range just next to the swiss border. We started to hike at 8:45 from Le Buet. The first part of the ascent is long but very easy as it is on a 4x4 large way.
At the end of the way we reached a wide plateau at 2000m which opens the view on the Terrasse sector and the majestuous Cornes de Loriaz. It was not our objective of the day but seeing the beautiful chute between the Cornes de Loriaz it was already clear in my mind that I will come back to ride it as soon as possible...
... later and higher, the sun had a very bad effect on the South slopes we hiked on. The snow was terribly heavy and sticky. It was as to have two anvils in your boots.
We decided to hike directly under the Pointe de la Terrasse in the North East chute instead of choosing the Terrasse pass route. The snow hadn't been deteriorated in the North exposed slopes and it was really easier to climb.
After a few efforts we finally reached the summit of Pointe de la Terrasse and we had an impressive view on the Mont Buet from there.
The snow was good although a bit irregular in the North chute and until 2100m. It was an amazing ride. From 2000m and under, the snow was wet but not so bad and it was fun to ride between the trees.
After a well deserved beer at the Hotel du Buet it was time to enjoy the last scenic lights of the day and to drive back home...
... a special thanks to Benoît who shows me the way to this beautiful place.