For skiers looking for a serious off-piste challenge, the north face of the Grande Motte stands out as one of the most iconic itineraries in the Tignes – Val d’Isère ski area. Highly visible from Val Claret, this vast glacial face delivers a true high-mountain skiing experience, combining altitude, sustained gradients and demanding snow conditions.
This is not a narrow couloir but a broad north-facing slope, where commitment comes from the length, the glacier environment and the need for constant adaptation. A classic line for expert skiers seeking technical, powerful and immersive off-piste skiing.
Looking to ski the north face of the Grande Motte safely?
Book your guided off-piste experience with a Snocool instructor in Tignes.
A true high-mountain glacial descent
Skiing the north face of the Grande Motte means entering a glacial environment from the very first turns. At over 3,400 metres, the altitude and exposure create a distinctly alpine atmosphere, far removed from standard resort skiing.
This itinerary offers:
- A wide, sustained slope ideal for committed but flowing skiing
- Natural terrain features with changes in pitch and rhythm
- Snow that is often cold and well preserved, but highly variable
As with any glacial route, awareness is essential. Crevasses, wind-affected snow and changing conditions mean that route choice and timing are critical.
Direct access, immediate commitment
One of the defining features of the north face of the Grande Motte is its easy lift access:
- Perce-Neige funicular
- Grande Motte cable car
From the top station, the entry into the face is close, although a short boot-pack may be required depending on conditions and the chosen line. This brief approach is an important moment to assess the slope, visibility and snow stability before committing.
Despite the straightforward access, once you drop in, you are fully engaged.
Sustained gradients and technical skiing
The north face offers a long, continuous descent, with steeper sections reaching 40–45 degrees depending on the line. Rather than a single extreme passage, the challenge lies in:
- The length of the run
- Managing fatigue at altitude
- Constantly adjusting to snow quality
- Reading glacial terrain correctly
This is demanding skiing that requires:
- Strong technique on steep terrain
- Precise speed control
- Confidence and composure throughout the descent
The lower part gradually eases as the route leads back towards the Val Claret sector, offering a rewarding exit after a powerful run.
Technical information – North Face of the Grande Motte
- Start point: Summit of the Grande Motte (funicular + cable car)
- Starting altitude: approx. 3,450 m
- Finish altitude: approx. 2,100 m (Val Claret)
- Vertical drop: approx. 1,200–1,300 m depending on the line
- Aspect: north
- Maximum gradient: approx. 40–45°
- Terrain: glacial, wide open slope
- Required level: expert
- Essential equipment: avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, helmet
- Recommended equipment: airbag backpack, crampons, harness depending on conditions
- Best conditions: stabilised cold snow, good visibility, light wind
If you are unsure about conditions or your level, professional advice is essential before committing.
Who is this route for?
The north face of the Grande Motte is suited to:
- Expert skiers confident in uncontrolled terrain
- Strong freeriders comfortable with sustained steep skiing
- Those seeking a true alpine off-piste experience
It is not suitable for:
- Intermediate skiers
- Occasional off-piste riders
- Unguided descents without glacier knowledge
- Periods of high avalanche risk or poor visibility
Why ski the Grande Motte north face with a guide?
Although lift-accessible, this route is serious high-mountain terrain. A Snocool instructor or guide will:
- Select the safest and most enjoyable line on the day
- Manage glacial hazards and snow conditions
- Adapt the descent to your ability and objectives
- Allow you to ski with confidence and focus on performance
Contact the Snocool team to plan your off-piste descent of the north face of the Grande Motte.
Combine with other advanced off-piste routes in Tignes
When conditions allow, the north face of the Grande Motte fits perfectly into a full expert freeride day, combined with:
- The Glacier Tongue for a shorter, faster line
- Steep itineraries in the Tufs sector overlooking the lake
- Other classic glacial descents around Tignes
