La Grande Marche Fontainebleau – A Classic Overhanging Crack
Located in the renowned bouldering forest of Canche aux Merciers, La Grande Marche (Fb 7a+, also listed as 7a+ in the Fontainebleau grading system) remains one of the most talked‑about problems for climbers seeking a technical overhang with a sustained crack. Since its first ascent, the route has attracted a diverse community of climbers, from local regulars to international visitors, all drawn by the unique balance challenges it presents.
Where to Find La Grande Marche
Canche aux Merciers sits just south of the town of Fontainebleau, a short drive from Paris. The bouldering sector is easily accessed via the Chemin des Biches trail, with clear signage directing climbers to the central “crack‑roof” area where La Grande Marche is located. The problem sits on a polished limestone slab, visible from the main approach path, making it simple to locate even on a busy day.
Route Description
La Grande Marche is a classic overhanging crack that starts on a low ledge and arcs upward for approximately three meters before finishing on a sloping topout. The crack widens slightly midway, offering a mix of hand jams, finger locks, and subtle heel hooks. Because the route is overhanging, climbers must maintain a dynamic body position while keeping the core engaged to avoid swinging away from the wall.
- Start: Low ledge with a secure foothold; hands placed in the initial thin section of the crack.
- Midsection: Slight widening that allows a transition to a full hand jam; a small foot edge is available for a heel hook.
- Finish: The crack narrows again, demanding precise finger locks before a final mantle onto the sloping top.
Physical Demands for Tall Climbers
Climbers with a height around 193 cm and an arm span of 201 cm report a distinct difficulty when tackling La Grande Marche. The overhanging nature of the problem means that a taller climber’s center of gravity sits higher, making balance more precarious. As one experienced climber noted, “I felt like this was really harder to find the balance when you are tall,” emphasizing the need for heightened body awareness and precise foot placement.
For taller athletes, the following adjustments can improve performance:
- Focus on keeping the hips close to the wall to lower the center of mass.
- Utilize heel hooks early in the sequence to create a stable base before moving upward.
