Col de la Pierre Carree is the highest pass in the north French Alps open all year

# Col de la Pierre Carrée: France's Year-Round Alpine Gem

Perched at 1,849 meters (6,066 feet) in the Haute-Savoie department, Col de la Pierre Carrée holds the impressive title of being the highest mountain pass in the northern French Alps that stays open all year long. Named after an alpine hunter and soldier, this route connects the charming village of Les Carroz to the Flaine ski station, making it a year-round essential for accessing this popular winter destination.

The D106 is a fully paved road that'll keep you on your toes—literally. Spanning 15.3 kilometers (9.5 miles), this winding climb features 20 hairpin turns with absolutely stunning Alpine views at every bend. Don't expect it to be easy though. The first few kilometers are particularly brutal, with grades hitting 8.4% that'll test your patience right from the start. You'll encounter maximum gradients of 11.8% on some sections, putting this climb in the same league as legendary rides like Mont Ventoux and Col du Glandon.

Here's the good news: the middle section offers a brief respite, with gentler slopes averaging around 5%. Then comes the second half—10 more kilometers at 6.5% average gradient with peaks hitting 9%—though mercifully, things ease up as you approach the summit.

Weather can occasionally force winter closures, but most of the year you'll find this road accessible. It's the kind of Alpine pass that delivers the full experience: challenging climbing, spectacular scenery, and those satisfying hairpin turns that make every meter worth it.