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Park in the car park at a place called the Small Pass. To reach the car park, drive through the resort of Vaujany, then the village of La Villette, taking the Route du Col du Sabot. The road is closed in winter from the car park
(S/E) Head due north from the car park, cross the Route du Col du Sabot twice before the bend and head towards a tunnel-like water outlet known as the ‘Fenêtre de la Villette’
(1) From the ‘Fenêtre de la Villette’, depending on snow conditions, you may be able to pass directly over it; otherwise, take a path on the left to rejoin the Route du Col du Sabot. A hiking sign here points towards the Col du Sabot. This is the summer route.
(2) Follow the same route as for the summer hike at least as far as around 1,830 m. Cross the road once more and continue straight on towards point 1,695 across a vast expanse of snow.
(3) Go round a snow-covered spur on the right (east) and then continue north-east towards point 1830, where the slope becomes steeper. Pass a clearly marked snow-covered hump on your right (you’ll take this on the descent). Continue straight north-east to reach a flat area. From there, you can see the pass.
(4) Do not head towards the Col du Sabot but turn left towards the north-west onto steeper slopes. Pass the chalets at the Col d’en Haut (often hidden under the snow). Do, however, look out for the aerial masts. Then head north-east again and follow the ridge to the unnamed summit at 2,161 m, overlooking the pass.
(5) Then begin the descent via the same route as the ascent, but taking the best slopes. The route shown is just an example; everyone should choose their own line whilst staying close to the route described.
After this lovely descent, head back to the car park where you started (S/E).
