Col du Tra
Balcony above the Tarentaise
Altitude 1308 m
Massif de la Vanoise
Département Savoie
East side topo
The Col du Tra is a novel alternative that allows you to avoid much of the D90, which follows the bottom of the Tarentaise Valley and doesn't offer much safety for cyclists, especially when you have to cross the abominable Tunnel du Siaix. On the other hand, you'll need to put in a good effort for this pass at a modest altitude (1308 m). For almost 7 km, the gradient often fluctuates between 7 and 9%. Then a 3.8 km-long flat area will allow you to recharge your batteries, while admiring the beautiful peaks of the Massif de la Tarentaise, before tackling a fairly sustained final 1.1 km at 7.5%.
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Topo west side
The Col du Tra is a novel alternative that allows you to avoid much of the D90, which follows the bottom of the Tarentaise Valley and offers little safety for cyclists, especially when you have to cross the abominable Tunnel du Siaix.
The climb from the Pont des Plaines is unusual, with no fewer than 30 switchbacks - enough to rival those of Montvernier! But you'll need to be in good shape, as the average gradient is often 8/9%!
