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© Alpe d'Huez Tourisme - Lionel Royet

The Tunnel ski run at Alpe d'Huez

At the summit of Alpe d’Huez, the Tunnel run offers one of the most legendary descents in the Alps. Accessible from the Pic Blanc at an altitude of 3,330 metres, it delivers an intense, high-adrenaline experience reserved strictly for expert skiers.

A 200-metre tunnel carved directly into the rock, steep slopes and a spectacular panorama combine to create a bucket-list descent that every seasoned skier should experience at least once.

A legendary run at 3,000 m altitude

Perched at over 3,000 metres, just below the Pic Blanc, the Tunnel run is one of the most iconic descents in Alpe d’Huez and the wider Oisans region.

Renowned as one of the most challenging ski runs in the Alps, it attracts experienced skiers every winter looking for adrenaline, a technical challenge and exceptional views.

The adventure begins at the top of the Pic Blanc cable car, where you are greeted by a remarkable panorama over the Écrins massif.

To reach the start, you first pass through a 200-metre tunnel carved straight through the mountain. Inside this narrow, rugged rock passage, the anticipation builds: the path is wide enough to ski two abreast, but no more.

As you emerge, the crisp mountain air signals the start of an unforgettable descent.

© Alpe d'Huez Tourisme - Lionel Royet

With a massive vertical drop of nearly 2,200 metres, advanced skiers can challenge themselves to ride all the way down to Vaujany in a single, continuous run, crossing the entire Alpe d’Huez ski area.

Thrills, views and adrenaline

From the very first turns, the Tunnel run sets a formidable tone: steep pitches, imposing rock walls and gradients reaching up to 70%.

Because the run is left entirely natural and unpisted, its difficulty varies daily. After a fresh snowfall, the powder here can be sublime; however, massive moguls quickly form as skiers tackle the steep terrain.

Blending sustained physical effort with constant visual rewards, the descent offers a rare opportunity: skiing in a dramatic, high-mountain environment while truly testing your limits.

This is a legendary run, widely regarded as a must-do for experienced skiers.

Did you know? The Tunnel run was designed by Georges Rajon, the very same pioneer who mapped out the famous 21 bends of the Alpe d’Huez cycling climb.

History

Read the history

Practical information

  • Location: Alpe d’Huez – Pic Blanc
  • Difficulty: Black run, very difficult
  • Type: Unpisted run, reserved for expert skiers
  • Access: Pic Blanc cable car
  • Starting altitude: 3,330 m
  • Vertical descent: Up to 2,200 m
Practical info