Col du Couvercle: A High-Altitude 4x4 Track in the Beaufortain Massif
Col du Couvercle is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,282m (7,486ft) above sea level, located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Set high in the Beaufortain Massif range in southeastern France, this route is a technical challenge for experienced off-roaders seeking dramatic alpine scenery.
Where is Col du Couvercle?
The pass is situated in the rugged mountains of Savoie, connecting high-altitude pastures. Geographically, the Col is located just below the famous Cormet de Roselend, one of the most iconic paved passes in the French Alps. It sits in a wild, rocky basin that offers a much more secluded and primitive experience than its famous neighbor.
How to get to Col du Couvercle by car?
The most reliable route to the summit is a mountain track that demands a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance.
- Starting Point: The ascent begins from the Route du Cormet d'Arêches.
- Distance: The road is 5 km (3.41 miles) long.
- Elevation Gain: The track climbs 473 meters from the starting junction.
- Average Gradient: The incline averages 6%, though it features several steeper sections and rocky ramps.
What are the driving conditions like?
The journey to the Col is a tale of two halves. The road starts off as a decent enough gravel road, suitable for most all-terrain vehicles. However, as you climb higher, the surface eventually deteriorates, becoming increasingly rocky, "tippy," and bumpy.
- Technical Difficulty: The track is narrow and lacks guardrails, with significant exposure in several sections. It is not recommended for drivers who are scared of heights.
- Weather: Due to its elevation, the pass is usually impassable in winter and late spring. In wet conditions, the dirt sections can become muddy and extremely slick, making for tough driving even for experienced "wheelers."
Why visit Col du Couvercle?
Reaching the summit provides a sense of isolation and raw beauty. From the top, you are surrounded by the limestone peaks of the Beaufortain, with vast views that stretch across the alpine landscape, often shared only with local marmots and high-altitude wildlife.