A Classic Line for Advanced Freeriders After Fresh Snow
The Langue du Glacier is one of Tignes’ most iconic expert off-piste descents, often tracked within hours after a fresh snowfall. Located beneath the Grande Motte glacier, this steep and exposed face draws the most seasoned freeriders as soon as conditions allow.
With a 900-metre vertical drop, an average slope of nearly 45°, and a direct fall line into Val Claret, this route is fast, technical and physically demanding. It requires solid technique, high mountain awareness, and a full set of avalanche safety equipment. Only expert skiers and snowboarders should attempt this descent.
👉 Book a guided off-piste session in Tignes with a professional instructor
Access from the Grande Motte Glacier
The entry point is located at the top of either:
- The Grande Motte funicular, or
- The Grande Motte cable car
- LanchesChairlift
From the summit (around 3450m), head southeast. After a short groomed section, exit right towards the glacier tongue, which is clearly visible in the terrain. The slope begins immediately — steep and sustained from the first turn.
👉 Ride with a local expert – meet our instructors in Tignes
A Steep, Direct Line Straight into Val Claret
The Langue du Glacier is a continuous steep slope often loaded with light powder just after a storm. The inclination holds around 45° throughout most of the run, with no flat sections or sheltering terrain — just a pure natural wall plunging directly into the valley.
Best conditions occur:
- Just after a storm, with little wind
- On clear days with good visibility
- When the snowpack is stable and consistent
⚠️ Be aware: the slope is highly avalanche-prone, especially early in the season or after warm spells. Wind slabs and sudden slides are common.
👉 Take our avalanche safety and beacon training courses in Tignes
Smooth Return to the Village
As the slope flattens out near the bottom, the descent merges with the lower runs into Val Claret, allowing for an easy glide back to the lifts — no walking or shuttle needed. This makes the Langue du Glacier ideal for repeat laps, provided your legs can handle the burn.
Technical Information
- Start: Top of Grande Motte – approx. 3450m
- Finish: Val Claret – approx. 2550m
- Vertical drop: 900m
- Orientation: East to southeast
- Inclination: Up to 45°
- Estimated time: 45 minutes to 1h15
- Required level: Expert only
- Essential equipment: Avalanche beacon (DVA), shovel, probe, helmet & airbag pack recommended
👉 Let our instructors help you choose the right conditions and route
Who Should Ride the Langue du Glacier?
This route is suitable for:
- Highly experienced freeriders looking for a steep and direct line
- Skiers regularly riding slopes of 40° and above
- Equipped groups who are autonomous or guided
- Expert snowboarders confident on sustained steep terrain with no rest zones
This route is not suitable:
- In high avalanche risk conditions
- For riders without avalanche safety gear
- Without prior knowledge of current snowpack and weather conditions
More High-Altitude Freeride Lines in Tignes
If the Langue du Glacier left you wanting more, try these legendary routes:
- North Face of Grande Motte – A demanding glacial descent
- Chardonnet Bowl – Steep couloirs in a protected amphitheatre
- Oreilles de Mickey – A challenging ridgeline between Tignes and Val d’Isère
