Exploring La Foglietta: A freeride adventure in Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise

As the early ski season kicked off in Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, we found ourselves itching for a proper backcountry adventure. With fresh snow reports trickling in, Warwick, Antoine, and I decided to test the legendary La Foglietta. We’d heard whispers that a few skiers had tackled it the day before, so our mission was set.

The Plan Comes Together

We met at Warwick’s van early that morning, fuelled by equal parts coffee and excitement. We also decided to test the BCA Mini Link radios, having settled on *Channel A2.020* the night before over beers at the Lama Lama bar. The number held special meaning - Powder Mad was born in 2020, and in old CB radio slang, “20” refers to your location. Plus, 2020 vision sounded cool enough to stick.

The Ascent

La Foglietta loomed high above us as we started skinning from the top of the Aiguille chairlift. The hour-long ascent was stunning, winding through snowy ridges and expansive alpine terrain. We first checked Entrances 2 and 3, considering their lines carefully. However, the allure of Entrance 1, with its steeper pitch, pulled us further upward.

At the top of Entrance 1, reality hit hard. With a pitch exceeding 40 degrees and sharp, protruding rocks (“sharks”) scattered across the slope, we made the call to retreat—safety first. We backtracked to Entrance 3, where conditions looked far more promising.

The Descent Begins

We dropped in one by one. The powder was unreal—light, deep, and perfectly balanced for fast, fluid turns. The steep pitch provided that heart-stopping free-fall sensation that every freerider dreams of. We regrouped in a safe zone before tackling the next section.

The line funnelled into a narrow couloir, where the snow texture shifted dramatically. As expected in early-season conditions, a small slide released beneath us, keeping our adrenaline spiked and senses sharp. Beyond the couloir, the snow transformed back to perfection - smooth and fast. We carved wide-open faces in pure powder bliss.

The Final Stretch

The final stretch was a long, winding path descending through the valley. The narrow trail tested our endurance, with burning thighs reminding us how early in the season it still was. At last, we reached the finish line: The Monal Bar and Restaurant, where cold beers never tasted better.

The Gear That Got Us There

For the tour, I used the OGSO touring skis, and they were nothing short of exceptional. Their lightweight design made the ascent effortless, while their wide profile and generous rocker ensured unbeatable float in deep powder. They’re true backcountry workhorses—responsive, stable, and playful in challenging terrain. **Highly recommended by the Powder Mad team!*

Exploring La Foglietta was everything we could have hoped for and more—a perfect mix of adventure, adrenaline, and après-ski memories. If you’re looking for an unforgettable freeride experience, gear up, check conditions, and let the mountain deliver its magic.

La Foglietta Ski Tour Stats

•⁠  ⁠Starting Point: Top of the Aiguille Chairlift, Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise
•⁠  ⁠Altitude Gain: Approx. 350m of skinning
•⁠  ⁠Maximum Altitude: 2,930m (Pointe de la Foglietta)
•⁠  ⁠Vertical Descent: Around 1,700m total
•⁠  ⁠Difficulty Level: Advanced to Expert
•⁠  ⁠Experience Required: Off-piste skiing experience, avalanche safety knowledge, and proper backcountry gear
•⁠  ⁠Best Time to Ski: January to March for powder; April for spring conditions
•⁠  ⁠Hazards to Consider: Avalanche risk, exposed rocks, and variable snow conditions

Important note: Both Warwick and Antoine are qualified ski patrollers with extensive knowledge of snowpack conditions and years of experience skiing La Foglietta. If you're considering tackling this iconic route, hiring a qualified guide is essential for safety and navigation.

Always check avalanche forecasts and consider hiring a local guide if you’re unfamiliar with the route.

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