Le Fifre, Mountain summit in Isère, France
Le Fifre is a mountain summit in the Écrins Massif with an elevation of around 3700 meters, characterized by steep rock faces on its slopes. Glaciers and snowfields cover much of its surface year-round, creating a rugged alpine landscape.
The mountain saw its first recorded ascent in 1881 when the Almer family and William Auguste Coolidge reached the summit. Since then it has become an established goal for alpinists exploring the Écrins region.
The name Le Fifre means "the fife" or "the pipe" in French, referring to the slender, spire-like shape of the rock tower. The peak rises directly above the Col des Avalanches (3,479 m) on the northern ridge of the Pic Coolidge, below the Barre des Écrins. The usual climbing route starts at the Refuge Temple-Écrins (2,410 m), crosses the col and follows the western ridge to the top.
The approach is technically demanding and requires experience with climbing gear and glacier techniques. Check weather forecasts ahead of time and consult with local mountain guides about current conditions before attempting the climb.
The name Le Fifre means "the fife" or small pipe, a reference to the peak's slender, spire-like form rising directly above the Col des Avalanches (3,479 m). The mountain stands on the northern ridge of the Pic Coolidge, which continues toward the Barre des Écrins.
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