Les 2 Alpes belongs to the very select club of summer ski resorts. Since 1972 and the construction of the glacier gondola (now the Jandri Express), summer skiing has been a huge success in Les 2 Alpes. In 1976, it was the only resort to guarantee summer skiing even after the heatwaves. The summer months were fully booked and the snow groomers were out every day from 1pm, with the ski area only open in the mornings, but over the last 30 years, global warming and increasingly infrequent and abundant snowfalls have caused the glacier to melt, even though the Les 2 Alpes glacier remains one of the best in the world, alongside those of Tignes and Val d'Isère.By July 2022, it was already closed to skiers and only accessible to pedestrians.
The 2 Alpes glacier, also known as the Mont-de-Lans glacier or the Roche Mantel glacier, is part of the Écrins massif and rises to an altitude of 3,600 metres. If you want to take in the sights of one of Europe's highest glaciers? Glacier trekking is a great way to discover the world of high mountains in total safety with a guide, whether just for you or as part of a group. Let yourself be tempted for a day by a walk at an altitude of over 3,400 metres to discover the glaciers. This activity can be enjoyed in summer or winter, depending on the weather and snow conditions. If you haven't walked on a glacier before, however, it's best to choose a glacier walk in summer, especially if you're going as a family with children (not accessible to children under 10).
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History of the 2 Alpes glacier
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View of the glacier
- © guruXOX / ShutterstockChoosing a mountain guide
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Outing with a mountain guide
- © yanik88 / ShutterstockDon't venture out onto a glacier on your own - you need a mountain guide who can suggest a hike for two or with a group. On the Les 2 Alpes ski area, the Guides Office, made up of 12 guides and mountain leaders, will be happy to welcome you and help you discover the glacier areas of the Écrins massif.
🌐Website: https://www.guides2alpes.com?utm_source=easyvoyage
☎️Numéro telephone number: 04 76 11 36 29
Your glacier hike will be done in complete safety, your guide will take you along a safe path and teach you how to use the equipment for walking on a glacier. It is important to communicate as much as possible with your guide about your physical condition or mountain sickness, which can be triggered at high altitude.
Who should try glacier trekking?
Glacier trekking does not present any real difficulties, as there is very little difference in altitude, and is accessible to people aged 10 and over. However, you do need to be used to walking, as this is still a sporting activity.
How do I climb the 2 Alpes glacier?
From Les 2 Alpes, take the Jandri Express gondola, then the funicular.
💰 Rates for the pedestrian pass :
- under-12s: €22
- 13-64 year olds: €28
- 65-71 year olds: €22
- over 72s: free with ID.
How should you dress for the 2 Alpes glacier?
Even if you're wearing shorts and a T-shirt at the bottom of the resort, you still need to be properly equipped to walk on the glacier. You'll be climbing to an altitude of 3,600 metres, so it's important to check the weather and temperature forecasts before you set off. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the minimum amount of suitable clothing you'll need:
- A rucksack, if possible light enough to carry clothes, water and your other accessories. The outing can last up to 6 hours.
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Thermolactyl hiking trousers if it's cold, or ski suit bottoms if it's sub-zero.
- A breathable T-shirt - you don't want to feel cold after sweating.
- A jacket, if possible with a zip so you can open it if you get hot.
- A windbreaker or ski jacket
- Walking poles
- An insulated water bottle filled with water (bottled water can freeze during your glacier walk, preventing you from drinking)
- Some dried fruit or energy bars
- Sun cream and lip balm if you are sensitive
- Class 4 sunglasses (these are the most suitable for glacier walking, but you can't drive with them)
- A hat or earmuffs in case it gets cold (quite thin, as you'll be wearing a helmet, so don't wear pompoms ;-))
- Gloves if it's too cold, or at least under-gloves.
Your mountain guide is also there to help you complete your list.
How do you walk on the glacier? What equipment do I need?
Equipment will be provided for your glacier walk. You'll be wearing crampons that you can attach directly to your hiking boots, a harness that's light enough to allow you to walk comfortably and safely, a helmet and an ice axe, depending on the level of the hike.
Practical information
⏱️ Duration
5 to 6 hours
💰 Prices:
Adults: €90 Accompanied children under 13: €80
🗓️Périodes opening hours :
Every day from mid-June to early September Every day from early December to late April Find out more on the tourist office website: https: //www.les2alpes.com/hiver/offres/randonnee-glaciaire-alpinisme-bureau-des-guides-accompagnateurs-des-2-alpes-les-deux-alpes-fr-hiver-2958715/
🍴 Where to eat next to the glacier?
Near the glacier is the high-altitude restaurant Le Refuge des Glaciers, where you can enjoy a crêpe or waffle after your journey, or a good hamburger, their speciality.
⭐Where to stay near this tour?
In typical mountain style, you can stay at the Chamois Lodge hotel. It's right in the middle of the resort, close to the Jandri Express cable car that takes you up to the glacier.
![Chamois Lodge](https://ims.ev.mu/large_232769896_3ca4f79952/large_232769896_3ca4f79952.jpg)