Ski-Areas > Northern Alps > Isère (38) > Belledonne > Les Sept Laux > Off Piste > Combe du Pra
Col du Pouta from the Belle Etoile
The Combe du Pra offers 1000 meters of descent, 800 off piste from the Col du Pouta. The bowl conserves powder well as it is north-east facing and sheltered from the sun from December to March. The easiest access is to traverse right after the chair lift to avoid a cliff. The start is 35° for the first 200 meters (rated 3.1). It is also a starting point for slab-avalanches so make sure it has been cleared by the piste patrol on suspect days. When the snow is good there is a steep but very short couloir, about 40 meters, (rated 4.1) directly in front of the chair.
Do not descend too far down the bowl at the Chalet du Pra traverse left to reach the Oursière chair left. This involves a small climb. There is a path that leads down to Pleynet just after the Chalet leave this to your right. If you have missed the Pra path you will ski into the Ravin de Pleynet and eventually reach Embruneraie ruines at 1368 m. From here there is a path that leads back to the resort and further on a large clearing in the trees. Both involve about 100 meters of climbing. Take care as the valley is threatened by avalanches from the Roc de Pendet at this point and the ravine will form a natural terrain trap.
Chalet du Pra in Spring
The Combe de Pra and Vouterets are splendid bowls but very dangerous in the winter, large slabs can be seen on the slopes. In 1995 a huge avalanche descended from near the summit of the Belle Etoile right down the valley. Off-piste skiers and boarders should be aware of these risks, read the avalanche bulletin and speak with professionals in the resort of the 7 Laux if in doubt.
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