Mont Pourri

The Mont Pourri, at 3,779 meters, is the Vanoise Massif's second-highest summit after the Grande Casse. It is a mountain you might recognize if you have ever skied in Les Arcs. From the valley (Aime) to the mountain communities of the Versant du Soleil (Granier, Valezan...), the Mont Pourri may be viewed from the route. Reach the Roche de Mio, the Aiguille Rouge by cable car, or the Beaufortain mountains (Pointe de Combe Bénite) by foot for a better view of the peak.

The name translates "rotten mount" or "decayed mount" in English, which some people misunderstand to suggest that the mountain is in bad shape. Mont Pourri, in fact, provides excellent climbing all year and is particularly popular with freeride skiers and snowboarders in the spring.

Many stories exist that attempt to explain the origins of the peak's infamous moniker. They do not appear to be related to moldy or loose rocks. The mount was most likely named after a climber named Pury, Pourrit, or Purry. Legend has it that he would have ascended the mountain decades before Michel Croz-the first recorded ascent. And he would have named the peak after himself.

Elevation: 3,779m
Location: Vanoise National Park, France