Glacier de l'Isère

The Glacier de l'Isère stretches across the French Alps, forming the source of the Isère River at an elevation of 2,800 meters beneath Grande Aiguille Rousse.

The glacier has decreased by 70 percent in surface area over the past 150 years, previously extending 900 meters further down the valley during the 19th century.

The glacier influences regional water management through the Tignes Dam, constructed in 1952, which stores 225 million cubic meters of water for irrigation and tourism.

Access to the glacier requires a two-and-a-half-hour hike from Val d'Isère, where visitors can observe local wildlife including marmots, ibexes, and chamois.

The glacier's meltwater flows through the Isère River for 286 kilometers before joining the Rhône, supporting numerous ecosystems and riverside communities throughout its course.

Location: Savoie

Location: Isère

GPS coordinates: 45.45130,6.01190

Latest update: November 7, 2025 04:17