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Access from the village of Douzens: take the small road called "Chemin des Argalats" coming from Carcassonne towards the village exit on the right before the cannery, then continue straight ahead for 2 km. Turn right to pass under the A61 motorway (be careful, there are two tunnels under the A61, take the one on the right). Continue straight ahead for about 500 m, go up the two hairpin bends to reach a clear area under the trees, which is the starting point.
It is usually possible to park in the shade, which is very welcome in summer.
(S/E) Head south. Follow a well-marked path at the bottom of a valley, which is actually the bed of a stream. The walk is not very easy in places, as there is a lot of gravel and stones. You will also enjoy passing small waterfalls, which are usually dry but clearly visible from the path.
(1) Quite quickly, as you climb a small hill, you will see a small hidden cave on the left of the path where excavations appear to be taking place.
(2) On the left, there is a rocky outcrop on the side of a rock that could be used as a shelter if necessary.
The trail, which has been exposed until now, gradually becomes covered by a magnificent forest of holm oaks and Austrian black pines. This passage also allows you to enjoy a shaded walk, which is welcome after the heat of the stony valley.
However, the climb becomes steeper with some slightly more difficult sections. An old yellow signpost is sometimes visible; follow it until you reach a fork.
(3) Take the path on the left. After a good walk under the cover of the woods, you will come out into a more open area that joins the track and theGR®36.
(4) From here, you switch to the south side of the massif and can enjoy views of the villages of Ribaute and Lagrasse, and further south, the Pic du Canigou. You can also see the summit of the Montagne d'Alaric opposite, visible by its antennas. To reach it, simply head straight in that direction, following the path that runs alongside the track.
(5) Enjoy the view before returning to the previous crossroads.
(4) Take the small path on the right, visible from the track. It is well maintained and descends gently.
There is a beautiful view from the edge of the path, and a cairn marks the viewpoint. Continue downhill to rejoin the forest track, where a sign indicates "Autour du Roc Gris, retour vers Moux" (Around the Grey Rock, return to Moux).
(6) Cross the track and follow the path opposite, which descends to a junction with another small path.
(7) Take the left-hand path, then a little further on, turn left again and the path heads west. The going is not very easy due to deep ruts on a narrow path.
The rest of the trail still has a few steep climbs, fortunately short, before returning to the starting point and the car park (S/E).
Visorando member
Easy 
Association / Club / Walk leader
