Wed, 17 September 2014
Vertical Climbed: 250 meters (820 feet)
Rating: 3
From the Massons car-park follow the signs to the "La tour d'Arces" then "Pierre Grosse"; carry on past the Pierre Grosse on the left to the end of the trail. Here cross a river bed (normally dry). The start of the track is on the left. At the end of the Pierre Grosse there is a fork, take the left to cross the river bed again to descend to les Combes. Here take the second left, an obvious path called "Le Plat" to return to the start.
The Tour d'Arces is a 12th century watchtower built by Louis d'Arces. It controlled the right bank of the Gresivaudan and the Faita trail from invasion by the Savoyards. The Pierre Grosse is a large rock that has fallen from the cliffs above.
Comments on route: There are 33 switchbacks but non of them exposed. It is a notch easier than Marika Singletrack; apart from the first, steep corner a reasonable MTBer shouldn't need to put his foot down. Route can be combined with Marika Singletrack or other trails in the area.
Access: Autoroute Grenoble - Chambery, take the Montbonnot exit then the St Ismier townhall -> Tour d'Arces car park.
Equipment: Good brakes!
Country: France Area: Chartreuse Trailhead: St Ismier
