Pointe de l'Échelle

The Pointe de l'Échelle, a distinctive, free-standing pyramid, is located in the wild beauty of Vanoise National Park, far from ski areas. From the summit, you have a good view of the glaciated massifs of the Vanoise, the Écrins, and even Mont Blanc. Despite the considerable height of 3422 m, you do not have to cross a glacier during the ascent of Pointe de l'Échelle; it is purely a rock climb. The climbing section is relatively short compared to the approach; about 70% is on marked hiking trails. The south ridge does not present great climbing challenges, but you have to be able to handle exposure to heights. The greatest difficulty is finding the optimal route. This summit is not often visited; only a few ambitious alpinists cross Pointe de l'Échelle from north to south.