A classic round trip taking in an atmospheric climb up the West Couloir of the Grand Galibier, stunning views from the top and a very nice ski descent of the Albert couloir.

Description

From the parking just next to the Pic Blanc tunnel,  follow the line towards the Pointe du Tete Noire. The Pointe du Tete Noire ski tour is marked on ING map. (Please note on my GPX we went a little to far left and ended up on steeper ground) Once at 2500m start to head up towards the Col du Clot Julien heading more north east. You should start to see the West couloir of the grand Galibier appear.

Climb the couloir to a flat area and then head north up a short climb and ridge to get to the summit.

From the summit ski back down the ridge and steep slope to the flatter section. Then continue SE on the big open valley towards the lac at the col Termier. Put the skins back on or boot pack up a short way from the lake to a small col. It can be difficult to spot the col, so keep checking it on the map. 

From there its time for the real descent.  Ski the couloir Albert, when the rock ridge on skiers right ends you can turn right and pick your way down towards the tunnel and the parking

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