
Where is Col de la Croix de Fer?
France, europe
25 km
2,071 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because Col de la Croix de Fer ("Pass of the Iron Cross") in the French Alps is a ride you won't soon forget! Found in the Savoie department of France, this stunner is part of the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes.
We're talking seriously high—the summit hits 6,794 feet! The road is totally paved (D926), so no need for the 4x4, but don't think that makes it easy. This 21.25-mile beauty snakes its way from the dazzling turquoise Lac de Grand'Maison to Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, and it's a roller coaster.
Expect countless turns, narrow sections that'll test your nerves, and some seriously steep sections—we're talking up to 15.5% grade! But trust me, the views are worth every white-knuckle moment. Think towering mountains, cascading waterfalls from melting snow, and scenery that'll make your jaw drop. There's even a little bar and parking at the top to soak it all in. This route is a Tour de France favorite for a reason!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 25 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,071 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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