Col de la Croix de Fer - 2067 metres

The Col de la Croix de Fer is often used as the mountain before the climb to Alpe d'Huez in the Tour de France. There is over 30 kilometres of riding from both sides, and the climb is surrounded by stunning scenery. The route is undulating on both sides with short downhill sections when you climb. From the summit, there are views towards the Col du Glandon and towards the three distinct peaks of the Aiguilles des Arves. This is the first climb of the day in the Marmotte sportif event.

See July 2003--- July 2002---June 2002---July 2001---July 2000

Eastern Ascent

An early season view of the impressive 3300m peaks of the Aiguilles des Arves from the Col.

The view of the Aiguilles des Arves when climbing from St-Jean-de-Maurienne on the eastern side.

On the eastern ascent, just before the ski resort of St Sorlin d'Arves. The dip in the mountains is the Col de la Croix de Fer behind.

Descending the eastern side of the Col above St Sorlin d'Arves.

 

Western Ascent

Start town :	Rochetaillee
Starting Altitude :	711 metres
Distance :	32 kilometres
Vertical Climb :	1450 metres
Gradient :	4.7% average - 12% maximum
Comments :

The view from the village of Le Rivier, 1250m in altitude on the western side.

Western side looking towards Le Rivier with the 2978m Grand Pic de Belledonne behind.

Descending below the barrage on the western side.

The hairpins of the climb taken from the Barrage de Grand Maison on the western side of the pass.

A kilometre from the barrage on the western side of the Col.

The final kilometres on the western ascent, early in the year before the climb is open to cars.

The view of the Belledonne range looking towards the Col du Glandon.

Only a kilometre from the Col on the western side and descending towards the Col du Glandon.

The view west from the Col in the early morning light.

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