Col Sud / Couloir de la Croix

Access

Access for this one is relatively straightforward, involving a series of short, steep boot packs. However, the transition from the Couloir Curée to the Col Sud summit requires some exposed rock scrambling, assisted by a via ferrata cable—hence the higher access rating.

Be sure to scout the line first—it’s clearly visible from most of the Verdons sector. Take the Saulire Téléphérique from Courchevel 1850 up to 2740m, then turn right, following the Grande Couloir markers along the ridge into a bowl. Continue to the far side where the entrance begins, staying riders left. Instead of dropping in, traverse high across the face to a rocky outcrop marking a short satellite couloir that links back into the GC—keep your traverse high and left throughout. After the traverse, complete a short boot pack up to the entrance of the Couloir Curée. For a more detailed access description, see the Freeride Republic “Couloir Curée – The Priest” write-up.

As you drop into the Couloir Curée, stay as high and left as possible—you’ll see the distinctive Curée rock formation above you—before tackling a steep ~40m boot pack up to its base. From here, skirt right and climb the final few metres to a small summit area where you can pause and take in the views. At this point, it’s wise to strap your skis or snowboard to your pack. Carefully scramble down around 10 metres toward the Méribel side, where you’ll pick up a via ferrata cable—follow it north toward Col Sud, this short section is exposed and requires focus. At the end of the cable, a final steep hike leads to the summit. From here, entry is best made with a controlled, steep side slip into the couloir directly below.

The exit brings you onto the top of the Saulire traverse line (also covered in a Freeride Republic write-up), offering an additional 300m of quality freeride terrain.

Tech

No specialist equipment required. Standard TSP and a helmet is a must.

Stoke

Standing at the top of the Col Sud line, it genuinely feels like you’ve reached the top of the world. The view stretches right across the Courchevel valley, almost insisting you pause for a moment and take it all in—it’s a spot that feels properly earned. The entry keeps you honest and asks for a bit of focus, but once you’re in, the line gives back in full: steep, clean, big-mountain skiing from top to bottom. In the right conditions it flows effortlessly, and knowing you’ve worked for every turn only adds to the reward. This one sits high on the stoke meter.

Gnar

Col Sud holds a slightly more north-east aspect but sits at a similar elevation to the Grand Couloir piste, so big red flag if the GC is closed. This is serious off-piste terrain—transceiver, shovel, and probe are essential, and safe travel techniques a given. Most of the ascent involves straightforward boot packs, but the transition from Couloir Curée to Col Sud adds a more technical edge, with some exposed scrambling that demands confidence and composure. The line is best suited to competent riders who are comfortable in that kind of terrain. The entry to the line is short but sharp, a steep roll-in that quickly gets your attention, and with sizeable cliffs on riders’ right, it’s well worth scoping the line from below beforehand.

Awe

Top of the world feeling with the whole of Courchevel in view. Long exhilarating ride. My line of the season!