Easy and beautiful climb on solid granit rock - 200m
Approach : 3h00 / Climb : 1h30
Full descent : 3h30

Once on top, you have a beautiful view of la Meije, le Rāteau and la Grande Ruine.

A delight for those climbers wanting to start with an easy route to get use the Ecrins area. Good as well, for those to test themselves on climbing autonomously.

Getting There

> From Refuge du Chatelleret, walk up to the Col du Clot des Cavales (2h30),
then keep on to the bottom of the South Ridge (0h30)

> Some snow, with a very steep final part to reach the Col du Clot des Cavales.
Then you walk on the top part of the Glacier du Clot des Cavales.

Route Description

You start with a long slab up a small breach.
Then turn on your right to properly start with the ridge.
The path is then quite obvious up to the top.
A few piton are there to provide you with direction and safety ;o)

Some parts are very easy II climbing, some part requires a bit more attention with level III. Anyhow, all the way up is a beautiful and relaxing climb.

On your way down, you take the same path. A couple of belays are useful to go the III parts.
You can avoid going on the Glacier section by using 3 belays. But the spot is not easy to find. My best suggestion is to ask at the Refuge du Chatelleret.

Enjoy !

Essential Gear

Crampons + ice axe
Ropes : 50m is enough, but 2 ropes of 50m can be useful to be faster on the way down
A few slings and quickdraws necessary. No friends needed.