Col des Avalanches (3499m) walks

A beautiful and challenging hike in the hills, varied with some unexpected sections. Stunning views. Be careful, there are many tricky and slippery sections. Avoid in wet weather.

Stage1 of the Tour du Combeynot: From the Col du Lautaret to the Alpe de Villar-d'Arêne refuge via the schistose crevasse trail overlooking the Romanche valley. Unique view of the Écrins and Meije peaks.

From the Vallonpierre refuge, the hike takes you to the Rif du Sap chapel, then to the charming village of La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar, where you can stop for refreshments at a local grocery store. The route then crosses the Valgaudémar National Forest before reaching the magnificent lakes of Pétarel and Sebeyras.

The hike begins with the ascent of the Pas de la Cavale, which rises to an altitude of 2,735 metres. After this climb, you will reach the Pré de la Chaumette refuge. From there, another climb will take you along the imposing Sirac, passing through the Vallette, Gouiran and Vallonpierre passes. The route ends at the Vallonpierre refuge.

This third stage of the crossing of France, following the 45th parallel as closely as possible, is long and difficult but absolutely magnificent. You will discover or rediscover the two jewels that are the Écrins and Meije massifs. Most of the route is on the GR® 50 and GR® 57. The paths are well marked and well maintained. This stage can be divided into four sections: 1) an ascent to the Col du Chardonnet; 2) the descent to Lauzet; 3) the ascent to the Col du Lautaret; 4) the descent to Arsine.

A magnificent second stage in a very mineral setting, culminating in the Pas de l'Olan pass. From the Souffles refuge, continue on theGR® 54 towards Lac Lautier, then the Col des Colombes and finally the Pas de l'Olan (caution: technical passage). From the pass, admire the landscape before gently descending to the Refuge de l'Olan.

Efirst stage to warm up your legs before climbing to the Refuge des Souffles.

A beautiful, varied hike with stunning views and a lake perfect for relaxing. A pleasant climb (a little steep at the start and very end), in the shade (early in the morning) for a good half of the route; a fairly long and difficult descent over scree. A full day's hike. Use the shuttle bus or bring two vehicles.

Day 2 in the Clarée Valley: ascent of Pointe des Cerces (unmarked mountain route), passage to Lac and Source de la Clarée and climb to the second bivouac at Lacs de la Madeleine (off-trail on the final section). As with the other parts of this circular, this route is intended for experienced hikers who are accustomed to high mountains.

From the Sebeyras Lakes, the route will first take you to the Col de Pétarel. From there, you will descend towards Saint-Maurice-en-Valgodemar. You will then follow the old transhumance paths to reach the Six Cabanes, then climb the Col de Menoux to Lauvet.