| What it is | Large rock blocks below cliffs |
| Formed by | Rockfall |
| Vs | Scree (small fragments) |
| Difficulty | Beginner (ankle-testing) |
Talus is an accumulation of large rock blocks at the base of a cliff or steep slope, formed by rockfall. Bigger than scree, talus is crossed by hopping or picking a line between stable blocks. ‘Talus hopping’ is a common but ankle-testing part of approaching alpine peaks, and shifting blocks demand care.
Crossing it
Test blocks before weighting them — even big ones can tip — and watch for rock you might dislodge onto others.
Talus vs scree
Smaller, loose fragments are scree — see scree vs talus. Both often sit below couloirs and on moraines.
Frequently asked questions
What is talus?
Talus is a field or slope of large rock blocks and boulders that have fallen from cliffs above and piled up at the base. Crossing it means stepping or hopping between blocks, choosing stable ones, which is a common part of reaching alpine peaks.
What's the difference between talus and scree?
Size: talus is made of large blocks and boulders, while scree is small, loose fragments. You hop across talus block to block; scree slides and flows underfoot. The terms are sometimes used loosely, but the size distinction is the key one.
How do you cross talus safely?
Move deliberately, testing blocks before committing your weight, since even big ones can shift or tip. Keep a stable, balanced stance, watch for loose rock you could send onto others below, and pick an efficient line — talus hopping is hard on ankles, so trekking poles can help.
Sources
- Mountain terrain — The Mountaineers