Col de Marcieu walks

Please note: the route is closed from 15 August until the end of September 2026. The Aulp du Seuil crossing: this hike ranks among the most beautiful in the Chartreuse.

A breathtaking circular route linking together numerous wonders: the rugged Pas des Charassons, the scenic Crête de l’Alpette, the magnificent Écaille du Pas de Ragris, the famous Tour Percée, the precarious Arche Miracle and the beautiful Aup du Seuil pass. This hike, covering less than 13km with 1,500m of elevation gain, requires a good sense of direction and sure-footedness (short sections of grade 3c climbing). Please note: the IGN topographic map is completely unreliable here! An agreement has been signed between the department and the owner of the 800 hectares in the Hauts de Chartreuse nature reserve to allow free access to the two paths that run across the Marcieu plateau. The exit at Pas des Charassons, which leads back onto the plateau, joins one of these paths within a few metres. You may request permission to pass from the landowner, although there are no visible prohibition signs on the ground.

Starting from the Col de Marcieu, this hike to the Pas de l’Écharasson begins with a walk through the forest before continuing along a path that leads to the foot of the Crête de l’Alpette at a scree slope. After negotiating its narrow gap and climbing two rocky outcrops, you’ll discover a magnificent cirque in a breathtaking setting. The route continues along a ledge sheltered by rock; climbing through a gap, then over a small, cable-secured rock barrier and finally along a ridge takes you to the crest and its magnificent viewpoint.