Ski Touring in Briançon — Routes, Guides & How to Get Started

From Briançon, three distinct touring areas are within 40 minutes of each other: the Écrins National Park, the Queyras, and the Serre Chevalier backcountry. Routes go from gentle beginner valleys near Monêtier to serious 4,000m ski mountaineering objectives in the Écrins. Most routes above the beginner level should be done with a certified guide from the Bureau des Guides de Briançon.

Best Ski Touring Areas Near Briançon

• Monêtier-les-Bains is the best touring base, closest to the high terrain
• Col du Lautaret has accessible intermediate terrain, 15 minutes above Monêtier
• Écrins National Park (Ailefroide) has serious routes to 4,000m+, 35 minutes by car
• Queyras Regional Park has excellent day routes, is less crowded, and is 30 minutes east
• Serre Chevalier back-country is accessible off-piste from the ski area top stations

Getting Started

• Book a guided introductory day with the Bureau des Guides de Briançon
• Rent touring equipment in Briançon (€35–€55/day including skins)
• Rent avalanche safety kit (beacon, shovel, probe) for €15–€20/day
• The Vallon du Casset from Monêtier is the classic first tour; 2.5 hours up, 45 minutes down
• A guided beginner day costs €80–€100 per person in a group

Season

• February, March, and early April are the best months
• Season runs December to late April
• Glacier tours in the Écrins continue into May in good snow years
• Check BERA avalanche bulletin daily at meteo-france.fr

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Briançon a good place for ski touring?

Routes for all levels are within 20–40 minutes of town. Beginners start at the Vallon du Casset above Monêtier, intermediates on the Col du Lautaret terrain, and experts have serious objectives in the Écrins. The continental climate keeps powder snow in good condition, and the Bureau des Guides covers all levels.