Little CanyonCourchevel, France | FreeRide Sector: Rocher de la Loze
Ride Date:
02 Feb 25Snow conditions:
SoftAvalanche level:
3 - ConsiderableTerrain:
Side countryWeather conditions:
SunnyPrecipitation:
ClearElevation entry point:
2400mElevation exit point:
2000mAspect:
South EastMax slope angle:
Between 30 and 45 degreesDrop in:
CouloirExit:
Ski outUsually one of the last couloirs to be taken on the iconic Rocher de la Loze east face.
As for most lines on the north, east and west faces of the Rocher de la Loze the standard route is the boot pack and/or skin up the north-west ridge from the Col de la Loze which takes between 40 and 60 minutes depending on the conditions. This is accessed via the Dou des Lanches chairlift in La Tania or the Loze chairlift in Meribel. However, this line is best scoped from the top of the Verdons gondola in Courchevel 1850.
While some choose to skin up to the summit it is perfectly possible to boot it. For those that prefer to skin there are some technical sections that require kick turns in very steep terrain. For those on foot there are some sections which require scrambling rather than walking. If booting is your preferred option you will require a backpack with ski carry.
All the lines on the Rocher de la Loze are FreeRide perfection. Little Canyon is no exception. The physical and mental effort required to first, plan, prepare, scope, access and then ride the line are what make the Rocher de la Loze so special. Go see for yourself.
Accessing Little Canyon is no more or less gnarly than any of the lines on the Rocher de la Loze but the canyon is more constricted than other lines on the east face. Once committed there is only one exit point and, in the event of an avalanche, no escape route. Be sure to conduct a risk assessment before committing to this line.
The Arete de la Loze will take your breath away both physically and metaphorically. Stunning views into the Tarantaise valley, incredible FreeRide terrain and the impressive geology formed 250 million years ago will all serve to remind you of your cosmic insignificance.
Little Canyon with the Saulire Telepherique in the foreground.
NW ridge of the Rocher de la Loze: The easiest and fastest way to access the north, west and east faces of the Rocher de la Loze (2526m) and the Arete de la Loze (2509m)
Spectacular view of the Croix de Verdon from the Arete de la Loze.
Standing at the entrance into Little Canyon. 📷 Goodshitskier.
Little Canyon entry point ringed in red.
Access route to Little Canyon from the Arete de la Loze (viewed from Col Nord de Croix de Verdon 2555m).
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