Col du Galibier

‎How to build an HC climb?

You're going to pave at least 2000 vertical feet, so don't waste any time on a negative grade. Actually, don't even bother going below 7% very often - that's just a waste of your time.

You should probably start high, just for good measure. That way, even if you only end up 8km long, at least you summit at 8600 feet. 

Start with long, drawn out switchbacks - then progress tighter and tighter as you ascend to the col‎, this will lay out a spectacular view of the high alpine valley below.

That pretty much sums up the Galibier, which I really enjoyed, despite feeling like I needed a bungee cord to erik at times. An amazing high alpine climb that is narrow (a single wide lane) and provides incredible views and scale along the way. ‎Our last climb/ride for the trip was straight up and down, but served as a great denouement for the week, we'll worth the burn.