A Remote Freeride Gem for Lovers of Open Terrain
The Grapillon sector, perched high above Tignes Val Claret, is a rewarding experience for skiers and snowboarders willing to hike for access. From the top of the Grattaluchairlift, a 45-minute steep hike (skins aren’t required) leads you to a quiet and untouched northwest-facing slope offering 700 metres of descent through wide, rolling terrain with sweeping views of the Vanoise National Park.
It’s the perfect adventure for intermediate freeriders ready to take their first steps into hike-to terrain, far from the lifts and busy slopes.
👉 Book a guided freeride session in Tignes
Access from the Grattalu Chairlift
The route begins at the top of the Grattalu chairlift (approx. 2700m). From there:
- Take off your skis and attach them to your backpack
- Follow a gentle but often windy ridge towards the Col du Grapillon
- Adjust your path based on existing tracks and snow conditions
The approach is manageable for anyone in decent physical condition, with no technical climbing required.
👉 Join a Snocool guide to explore this hidden gem in total safety
A Long, Flowing Descent to Express Yourself
From the Col du Grapillon, the terrain opens up to an untouched, open slope offering several descent lines. The run begins with a wide, consistent pitch, often blanketed in fresh powder, then gradually curves back towards either Val Claret or Tignes Le Lac, depending on your chosen route.
Thanks to its altitude and northwest orientation, the snow often remains cold and stable—a dream for powder lovers.
Ideal conditions for:
- Linking long, sweeping turns
- Building confidence on natural terrain
- Enjoying the silence and the alpine views
👉 Learn to pick the best line with our private off-piste coaching
Technical Details
- Start point: Top of Grattalu chairlift – ~2700m
- End point: Tignes Val Claret or Tignes Le Lac – ~2000m
- Vertical drop: 700m
- Orientation: Northwest
- Hiking time: 45 minutes
- Total duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Level required: Intermediate (comfortable on red runs / some off-piste experience)
- Recommended gear: Freeride skis or board, avalanche beacon (DVA), shovel, probe, helmet, suitable backpack to carry skis, airbag.
👉 Contact our Tignes team for tailor-made freeride adventures
Who Is the Grapillon Route For?
This route is ideal for:
- Intermediate skiers looking to try a hike-to line for the first time
- Snowboarders comfortable with transitions and natural terrain
- Small groups wanting a peaceful off-piste experience away from the crowds
- Freeriders seeking a lesser-known but rewarding descent
It is not recommended:
- In poor weather or low visibility
- For total off-piste beginners
- Without proper safety gear and route knowledge
👉 Need a refresher? Take our avalanche and mountain safety courses in Tignes
Safety Tips and Precautions
As with all backcountry descents, the Grapillon route requires:
- Knowledge of the terrain or a qualified guide
- Avalanche risk assessment and awareness of wind slabs
- Full avalanche safety equipment: beacon, probe, shovel
- Notifying someone of your route before departure
👉 Meet our certified instructors for safe and fun off-piste skiing in Tignes
More Hike-to and Touring Routes in Tignes
If you enjoyed the hike and views at Grapillon, you’ll also love:
- Terre Rouge – A ski touring adventure towards Les Brévières
- Couloirs des Tufs – Steep lines above the lake
- North face of the Grande Motte – A serious challenge for expert freeriders
