Iconic Couloirs Overlooking the Tignes Lake
The Couloirs des Tufs, also called “The Fingers” by British skiers, are a series of steep, narrow and committing couloirs that tower above Tignes Le Lac. Clearly visible from the village, they attract the most skilled freeriders with their dramatic vertical lines, often untouched snow, and quick lift access.
With 600 metres of vertical drop, including a 300-metre steep section, this is a highly technical descent reserved for expert-level skiers and snowboarders. You’ll need sharp slope-reading skills, solid technique, and full awareness of mountain risks.
👉 Explore our guided freeride sessions in Tignes
Fast Access from the Tovière Gondola or Tufs Chairlift
The starting point is the top of the Tovière gondola or Tufs chairlift, at 2695m. From here, a short traverse or hike brings you to the entry point of the couloirs, hard to figure out from above.
There are no marked routes, so scouting the lines from below is strongly recommended. Depending on snow cover and chosen aspect, several variations are possible—some wide, others tight and rocky. All exit directly onto the Tignes Le Lac snow front or Chartreux, around 2100m.
A Steep and Exposed Descent with Visual Impact
The upper 300 metres of descent take place inside steep couloirs with gradients reaching 40 to 45 degrees, depending on the line.
These north-east facing slopes are often shaded, and thus prone to:
- Cold snow accumulation
- Hard or icy sections
- Spontaneousslab releases
Perfect control of your turns and route choice is essential. The second half of the descent is more open, offering a smooth ride toward the lakefront.
Technical Overview
- Start: Top of Tovière gondola – 2695m
- Finish: Tignes Le Lac/Chartreux – approx. 2100m
- Total descent: 600m
- Steep section: approx. 300m
- Aspect: North-east to East
- Estimated duration: 45 mins to 1h15
- Required level: Expert only
- Essential gear: Avalanche beacon (DVA), shovel, probe, helmet, airbag backpack highly recommended
👉 Book a private freeride lesson in Tignes to sharpen your technique
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Ride the Tufs Couloirs?
This zone is suitable for:
- Expert freeriders in ski or snowboard
- Those experienced in steep and narrow terrain
- Confident riders with strong terrain reading skills
- Fully equipped individuals or guided skiers
This route is not recommended:
- In poor visibility or bad weather
- When snow conditions are unstable
- For beginners or intermediate-level freeriders
High Risk, High Reward – Prioritise Safety
This zone is not secured or patrolled. You’ll face:
- High avalanche risk
- Potentially tricky or exposed exits
- Rockfall areas depending on sun exposure
Before attempting the descent:
- Check the Météo France avalanche report
- Ensure all your gear is functional
- Scout your exit beforehand
- Never ride alone – tell someone your plan
👉 Trust our expert instructors in Tignes for safe freeride adventures
Other Iconic Couloirs in Tignes and Val d’Isère
Love steep terrain? Here are more challenging lines to try:
- Chardonnet Couloir – wild and remote
- Col Pers – glacial descent from over 3200m
- Oreilles de Mickey – ridgelines and sharp couloirs
- North Face of the Grande Motte – for advanced freeriders only
