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Pic de Brasseil, known as Dent d’Orlu, from Jasse de Cabane Longue, Ascou

Publié le 17 August 2024 | Ariege, France Eng

Here's a classic and popular Haute Ariège hike! The Pic de Brasseil, also known as the Dent d'Orlu, is a major climbing spot in the Ariege region, but it's also a superb vantage point for spectacular aerial views of the Ariege Pyrenees and beyond. The route is an out-and-back, and although the distance is fairly short, the slopes are steep in places, particularly on the north-east face leading to the summit ridge. An outing to be avoided in wet weather or if the northeast face remains snowy or icy. On the way, vultures and a helicopter in rescue mode right in front of us.

Technical summary

► Departure point: Parking de la Jasse de Cabane Longue (Poêle à frire), Ascou, Ariège (09)
► Type of route: high-mountain out-and-back hike
► Distance to cover: 5 km
► Cumulative elevation gain: +650 m
► Cumulative negative elevation gain: -650 m
► Estimated total duration: 2h30 to 3h30
► Min and max altitude: 1517 m / 2222 m
► Signs: yellow (PR)
► Equipment in place: none
► Equipment required: none

Difficulties: the very steep final section and a few small passages where you have to help yourself with your hands to balance (II max)

Access to the place

From Ax-les-Thermes on the N20, branch off onto the D613 towards the Col du Chioula, then further up, turn right onto the D25 towards Ascou and the Col de Pailhères. Climb up to Lac de Goulours and take the forest road that starts between the campsite and the Gite de la Forge. Climb for several kilometers on a road that becomes a track, in poor condition in places, but passable all the same. At the very end, park in the Jasse de Cabane Longue at the Poêle à Frire parking lot.

Map & topo

Voir en plein écran

Itinerary description

Part 1: from the parking lot to the foot of the Dent

Cross the grassy jasse and climb the wide forest path. After a first section, cross a second jasse to tackle the slightly steeper 2nd section. Gradually exit onto the Sarrat de la Llau ridge, which separates the Cabane Longue valley from the Coume Grande on the Tarbézou side. Climb up the ridge without difficulty to reach a shoulder below the Dent.

Part 2: north-east face of the Dent up to the summit ridge

It's simple: it's almost straight up the slope! The trail is very well marked, almost too much so, with loose rocky areas. In places, it's really steep and requires a bit of handholding. The short final section is easily climbed to the summit ridge. Spectacular views of the Pyrenees and the Ax valley. If you walk a little to the south on the summit ridge, the views are even more aerial, with almost 1000m of emptiness beneath your feet. Direct views across to Naguille and the jasse de Parau (see photos). Large birds of prey can also be seen circling the area. Griffon vulture? Short-toed Eagle?

Part 3: return to the Cabane Longue jasse parking lot

The descent of the northeast slope is tricky, but the rest is easy. Return by the same route as the outward journey.