The highest point in the massif at 2977m, the Grand Pic de Belledonne is an eye-catcher from afar. Crossing it is a superb rock climb in the heart of a wild massif, sometimes referred to as the "petite traversée de la Meije".
A long approach and a great atmosphere, but the difficulties are still under the IV, without exceeding 3000m.Early the next morning, we climb towards the north face of the Grand Pic, skirting the Lac Blanc, then ascending to the Col de la Balmette.
A few steps of 4 on slabs and overhangs follow on from one another on the north ridge to take us to the summit of the Pic Central. A few abseils, then the traverse continues with some core climbing to the summit of the Grand Pic. From here, it's easy to reach the Croix de Belledonne, before descending via the Col de Freydan, Lac Blanc and the Ravin des Excellences.
We're going up from the Grésivaudan to spend the night at the Jean Collet refuge, starting from the Souille car park. We approach at the end of the day, before enjoying the warm welcome at the refuge.
We can also race on the day, starting early and being quick on the approach.
This race is aimed at mountaineers with a good knowledge of rock climbing, a good level of fitness and a taste for effort in alpine terrain. The route is long and wild, and requires stamina as well as the ability to face the void.
The ascent of the Grand Pic ridge includes some easy climbing (level II/III), often exposed. This is a classic ridge climb, reserved for those who are comfortable on rock and in a high mountain environment.
The ascent takes two days, with an overnight stay at the Jean Collet hut. The summit is reached on the second day after a long approach and crossing of the ridge. Allow between 10 and 12 hours of effort over the two days.
The traverse of the Grand Pic de Belledonne is good preparation for the traverse of the Meije, the ascent of the Matterhorn, or other rock climbs such as the traverse of the Aiguilles du Diable and the Charmoz Grépon traverse.
For a summer ascent, the ideal period is from July to October. Outside this window, the snow makes the route and approach more difficult, so an experienced mountaineer might consider the much more difficult winter traverse.
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A flexible framework for devising the most appropriate itinerary or activity for each day, depending on the group and the conditions.
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