Steep & Deep | AdH/La Grave | 25 Feb - 3 Mar 2012
Program
Steep & Deep is a program for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarder who like to descent on steep pitches and in narrow gullies. Or for those who want to get better at this. It's all about the descent but to get at the start sometimes needs a bit of mountaineering. Hiking, climbing, rappels and jump turns. It's all part of this extreme freeride adventure.
Lead by a mountain or ski guide you will learn skills and get tips that will help you adapt to the great variety of terrain and snow conditions. Our goal is to push you hard, keep you safe, and take you to the next level. We don't throw you in at the deep end. We provide tips on finding the best line, reading a slope, steep etiquette, and terrain selection. We steadily build on what you know already.
The program consists of two parts. In the first part we will ride the flanks of the Grandes Rousses. From the top station of Pic Blanc we have easy access to some very interesting pitches and gullies. In the second part we'll push it a bit harder. We go to ride La Grave. One of Europe's most extreme off-piste areas were we aim to put you in challenging situations that help you push your limits.
Accommodation
We'll be staying in a hotel in in Allemond and includes breakfast and dinner. There are spacious double bedrooms with a bathroom and toilet. Wireless internet is available, you can park at the door and the ski bus stop is nearby.
Location
Les Grandes Rousses are set in an area of 10000 hectares, combining the resorts of Auris, Oz-en-Oisans, Villard-Reculas, Vaujany and La Garde. While freeriders are relatively scarce here, off-piste possibilities are endless. The area offers challenging terrain and lots of unspoiled powder.
La Grave is one of Europe's most extreme off-piste areas. Certainly the best known. A long gondola and numerous descents all the way down in the valley. This area has everything; glacier area, couloirs, steep walls and deep drops. The combination of lift access and alpine is the reason why so many freeriders come here to ride hard.
Lunch and Dinner
We'll have lunch during an afternoon break at a restaurant or eatery. We'll have dinner together in the hotel (price included).
Weather and Snow
The Grandes Rousses is a huge area and has faces and slopes in all expositions. The highest of these is the Pic Blanc, a 3300 metre giant surrounded by several challenging glaciers. High mountains with lots of snow. When bad weather comes in from the west, it mostly brings a lot of snow.
La Grave is always good but the best after February. There is plenty of snow and the weather is getting better. When bad weather comes in from the south-west, it mostly brings a lot of snow. Most slopes are north or east exhibited. Less sun but better conditions in the absence of fresh snow.
Guidance
Our team consists of seasoned and certified professionals who are up-to-date with the latest developments in teaching methods, techniques, equipment and safety procedures. During our Skills & Style, Bump & Jump and Lift & Ride programs, you'll be instructed by an Austrian State certified teacher.
During our Hike & Ride, Fly & Ride and Steep & Deep programs, you'll be guided by an Austrian State certified ski/snowboard guide or UIAGM mountain guide. All teachers and guides are Dutch and speak perfectly German and English.
Skill Level
This program is for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders who like to descend into narrow couloirs and steep walls. Or for those who want to get better at this! We require that participants are fit and in good health. Furthermore, a good basic technique in the terrain is a must. Check here your Freeride Passport and compare it to the Freeride Passport for this program.
If you have any questions regarding your skill level or need advice on how to prepare yourself for a Ski-Madness descent, please contact us.
Number of Participants
There is room for only 6 to 8 participants per group. We limit the maximum group size to guard your safety and to make sure we can give each of you as much personal attention as possible. We try to place participants in groups matching their level of skill.
Equipment
For this program we advise a light freeride ski with a heavier tour binding. Of course with skins and crampons that fit. Touring boots are not necessary. It's all about the down! For boarders we advise a split board. Make sure that bindings, skins and crampons fit.
If you have questions regarding your equipment or need advice on the purchase of equipment, please contact us.
Safety
For your safety and our own, we use safety gear during all our activities. We have backpacks including beacon, shovel and probe available for every participant. In case of an avalanche, this equipment can save your life and enable you to help others in need. These backpacks are included in the price. Furthermore, bringing your own first aid kit is advised and wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Ski-Madness has a large number of complete Ortovox backpacks that include a shovel, a probe, and an avalanche transceiver. Free to use.
Insurance
Travel insurance with European or global coverage is mandatory for all our programs outside the Netherlands. Your policy should cover the risks that come with skiing on unmarked slopes because rescue operations and emergency medical transportation are costly in these areas.
We insure all participants with Mondial Assistance, who offer excellent coverage.
If you already have travel insurance then make sure your policy adequately covers mountaineering risks. This is for your own safety. Cancellation insurance is also advised.
