[moved] The Aiguille Rouge, Les Arcs

The Aiguille Rouge, despite its name, is a Black Run that descends the peak of the same name from way above Arc 2000.

It is notable for its length (8km) and vertical descent (over 2000m), spectacular setting and opportunity for some challenging variations off the run.

From the interestingly steep start the first section widens out onto a gentle initial gradient before descending through a wide variety of slopes. For more than 8km the run continues, dropping away to the other side of the ridge from Arc 2000 and descending, eventually, to the hamlet of Villaroger in the adjacent valley.

There are a few points that can be challenging but most of the run can be tackled by a confident intermediate. The piste starts above 3000 metres altitude so good quality snow can almost always be found on the upper half at least. The lower half of the run is fairly sheltered (being North facing) and so holds the snow well, although late afternoon descents can be made tricky by failing light.

The marked run itself can be left at several points, notable among which are several different routes down into Arc 2000 (which include a wide and steep slope and a couple of possible couloirs), and interesting deviations through the trees toward Villaroger.

Refreshments can be grabbed in the latter part of the run, either at Henri's mountain restaurant or at Le Ferme in Le Pre.

A fine place to stay, for a weekend doing the Aiguille Rouge, is with <a href="http://www.optimumski.com" target="_blank">Optimum Ski</a>, in Le Pre - at the end of the run.