Industry News
Perched high in the French Alps and framed by the dramatic peaks of the Vanoise National Park, the Pisaillas Glacier at Val d’Isère, France, is once again opening for summer skiing. Accessible only via the Col de l’Iseran—the highest paved pass in Europe—this seasonal tradition offers a rare chance to ski above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) well into July. The Col de l’Iseran will open for cars from Friday, June 6, at 4:00 p.m.
From June 7 to July 6, 2025, skiers, cyclists, motorcyclists and motorists alike will be able to access the glacier from both the Val d’Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc sides. The route via the Col de l’Iseran, typically closed through much of the colder months, becomes a gateway to a summer sporting enclave, connecting thrill-seekers to a network of glacial runs carved above 10,000 feet.
The glacier’s ski area spans elevations between 2,725 and 3,300 meters (roughly 8,940 to 10,827 feet), with three slopes—Combe du Géant, Montets, and Moraine —open to the public, and four runs—Pisaillas, Roche, Champions, and Aiguille-Perse—reserved for team and club training.
The summer lift system on the glacier includes the Cascade chairlift at the base and the Montets surface lift, which ascends to the highest skiable point in Val d’Isère—3,197 meters (10,489 feet).
A ski pass sales point and the Cascade Restaurant Restaurant await visitors at the parking area near the foot of the glacier, conveniently located beside the lower lift station. The resort will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., but all operations remain subject to snow and road conditions, which can change quickly in alpine environments during the summer months, so make sure to check the resort’s website before setting out.
Lift pass prices for summer skiing are as follows:
For four weeks, Val d’Isère offers a rare summer blend: icy adrenaline under a warm sun, served with panoramic views of the Alps and the quiet stillness only high elevation can provide.
