Route de la Combe d'Olle and Col de la Croix-de-Fer Motorcycle Route in the French Alps

The Route de la Combe d'Olle and Avenue Samuel Pasquier are located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, crossing the Massif des Arves mountain range and intersecting with the Grandes Rousses, Alpes du Dauphiné, and the Chaîne de Belledonne mountain ranges. The road reaches its highest elevation at the Col de la Croix-de-Fer mountain pass, which stands at 2,067 meters (6,781 feet). The route runs near the Lac de Grand'Maison, a lake covering 2.11 square kilometers, and follows the river L'Arvan for approximately 27% of its length. The road ends near the town of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, a notable settlement in the area. An interactive map showing the road section discussed can be found at the end of this article.

The road extends for approximately 34.8 kilometers (21.6 miles) and features an asphalt surface of generally good quality, rated 3.8 out of 5. The route is moderately twisty, providing a dynamic riding experience without extreme curvature. About 18% of the road consists of a single lane, while the majority (69%) has two lanes. The road width varies, with about 70% being wide, 23% middle width, and 5% narrow sections. Speed limits along the route vary between 30 km/h (19 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph), adapting to the road's geometry and surrounding environment. Approximately 35.6% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including small settlements such as Combe Soudan, Arcellaz, and Pont d'Entraigues. The route includes several bridges and viaducts, such as the Viaduc des Sallanches and Pont du Merderel, adding structural interest to the ride.

The highlight of this route is the Col de la Croix-de-Fer, a mountain pass well known in the region and frequently referenced in motorcycling and cycling communities. The pass is situated at an elevation of 2,067 meters (6,781 feet) and offers multiple viewpoints along the way, providing riders with opportunities to pause and appreciate the alpine landscape. The road runs adjacent to the river L'Arvan for a significant portion, enhancing the natural ambiance. The route also skirts the Lac de Grand'Maison, a large reservoir that contributes to the area's hydrological and scenic character. These natural features make the road attractive for riders interested in alpine environments and mountain passes.

This mountain pass road is subject to seasonal closures, particularly during winter months when snow and ice conditions can make the route unsafe for motorcycles. Riders should verify current road status before planning a trip. There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but conditions may change, so checking official French road information sources is advisable. The road is maintained to a standard suitable for motorcycles, with a generally reliable asphalt surface and clear signage for speed limits and curves.

For more detailed information on the Col de la Croix-de-Fer, visit its Wikipedia page. Information about the river L'Arvan can be found here. The Massif des Arves mountain range is described in detail on its Wikipedia article. For regional context, the Chaîne de Belledonne is covered here, and the Grandes Rousses range can be explored here. The nearby Lac de Grand'Maison is detailed here. Riders planning a visit should consult local road authorities for updates on closures and conditions.