• Le Buet train station

  • Amazing views looking back from the Col de Bérard

  • Laetitia just after putting on the skins for the ascent up the Col de Bérard

Big Powder on the Crochues – Berard Traverse

It snowed all day yesterday while we worked, so we knew today there would be some awesome off-piste powder skiing to be had. Aware that the avalanche risk might have gone up, and deciding we didn’t want to get up too early after seeing the New Year in, we decided to do a route we had done twice before – the Crochues – Berard Traverse.

It was absolutely brilliant.

A few skiers were in front, which was useful on the final steepening on the slog up to the Col de Crochues. The fresh snow made walking almost impossible as we waded waist deep in powder.

We eventually got to the top and were rewarded with the most fantastic powder snow, with only a few ski trails showing the way.

Pete enjoying the powder
Pete enjoying the powder
Laetitia just after putting on the skins for the ascent up the Col de Bérard
Laetitia just after putting on the skins for the ascent up the Col de Bérard

The climb up to the Col de Bérard wasn’t so bad, giving us amazing views, and then we had another fantastic descent on beautiful deep powder down through the Vallon de Bérard to le Buet. My style was utterly rubbish but I had a brilliant time trying to tuck in lots of turns and then stopping to look back at how neat my trail was. Not bad at first but soon deteriorating as my legs couldn’t keep up with my rubbish technique. Three skiers over-took us, demonstrating far superior skill. :mrgreen:

Amazing views looking back from the Col de Bérard
Amazing views looking back from the Col de Bérard

On previous trips, the trail took the left hand side of the river, and both times I have had to take my skis off well before we reached the village. This time, the skiers in front had taken the right of the river. What an adventure as we crashed (well nearly) through the trees until we met the walkers path. The snow was still deep and we skied all the way to the road.

Le Buet train station
Le Buet train station

We only had to wait fifteen minutes for the train. I love that little train journey. We stopped in the centre of Chamonix so we could get some well deserved cakes – no pictures – we’ve eaten them already!! :yum: :yum:

7 thoughts on “Big Powder on the Crochues – Berard Traverse”

  1. I think they call it “Champagne Powder” – whatever it’s called – it’s awesome! Although it’s impossible to walk in.
    I will try to fill a duffle bag and bring it back for you Ian…

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