Ski Tourers Sign Up For The Trace Des Grands In Chamonix

Ski touring is often described as a way to ‘earn your turns’. You walk up the mountain on your skis, assisted by ‘skins’ on the bottom, and special bindings to help with your walking action, before removing the skins to ski down again.

In the past, this mode of skiing was seen as the preserve of fitness fanatics and those who wanted to avoid the crowds and lift queues. Ski touring also enables you to get away from it all and enjoy even more spectacular mountain views. Some ski areas even provide unmanned, but well-equipped, mountain huts where you can spend the night!

However, in the last few years ski touring has gained more traction among British skiers who have been tempted by the experience of skinning up remote slopes and skiing back down in untouched powder. Some of this was a result of the pandemic which played an unexpected role in boosting the sport’s popularity.

With traditional ski resorts either closed or enforcing strict capacity limits during the height of Covid, many skiers found themselves looking for alternatives. Ski touring offered a socially distanced, self-sufficient way to explore the mountains.

Although ski touring is usually seen as an individual pastime, there is the opportunity to join hundreds of other like-minded people in Chamonix at a special event.

The famous French resort started hosting Trace des Grands in 2022. It is held over three days and caters for all skill levels, from beginner to expert, on five specially prepared routes.

An indication of the growth in the sport’s popularity was apparent when registration opened last year. The organisers received 172 entries in just one day – an increase of 200% on the previous year. Since then, close to 1,000 ski enthusiasts have already confirmed their spot for 2025. The number of entries is capped at 1,500.

The Trace des Grands takes place on 8-9 March this year. The five different levels are listed below and for more information on the event go to: La Trace Des Grands

For more information about Chamonix and the accommodation available through Ski Line CLICK HERE

The five routes are designed for all levels, timed or untimed, open to all – ski touring, split boarding, and telemark. Whether you want a competitive challenge or just the experience, the organisers say there is a route for everyone.

TDG EXPERIENCE (460m ascent) A gentle introduction to ski touring, perfect for beginners.
TDG VERTICAL (740m ascent) Push your limits with a fast-paced vertical climb on a closed course.
TDG 110 (1,290m ascent) A stress-free, pure enjoyment day for those who love wide open spaces.
TDG 65 (2,040m ascent) Immerse yourself in a breathtaking, icy world for an unforgettable high-mountain experience.
TDG DUO (2,500m ascent) Take on the challenge as a team, combining effort and strategy.

Ski Tourers Sign Up For The Trace Des Grands In Chamonix: A Summary

Ski touring, once a niche activity for fitness enthusiasts and solitude seekers, has gained popularity among British skiers, especially following the pandemic when traditional resorts faced restrictions. This self-sufficient way of exploring the mountains allows skiers to ascend slopes using special bindings and skins before enjoying untouched powder on the descent. The sport’s growing appeal is evident in Chamonix’s Trace des Grands, a three-day event offering five different routes for all skill levels. Since its launch in 2022, participation has surged, with nearly 1,000 skiers already registered for 2025. The event, capped at 1,500 entries, includes options ranging from beginner-friendly ascents to intense high-altitude challenges.