From the Cabane du Vélan to Bourg-Saint-Pierre

Departure from the Cabane du Vélan.

(S) Descend via the same ridge path as on the ascent to reach the Vélan/Valsorey junction.

(1) Follow the direction of Valsorey, staying on top of the moraine with a few tricky sections. When the path branches off to the right, follow the white/red/white markings carefully, as the scree crossing is tricky. Navigate by sight, don't hesitate to stop to locate the next mark, as the rocks change position every season and it is very easy to get lost in the rocky maze.

(2) Cross the small metal bridge and continue to follow the markings. Cross a second stream (without a bridge) and continue climbing up through the rocks to reach the upper trail.

(3) Turn left towards Cordonna, Bourg-Saint-Pierre and follow the path that climbs slightly.

(4) At the fork, continue on the right-hand path and pass over some rocky outcrops. The path descends steeply. Take a passage with chains. The descent ends in a series of switchbacks to reach Chalet d'Amont.

(5) Turn right, cross the mountain pasture and arrive at a fork.

(6) Continue to the right (north-west), still towards Cordonna and Bourg-Saint-Pierre. Find the path you took the day before and follow it downhill.

(7) Be very careful after leaving the road and crossing the road: follow the yellow markings carefully. Cow tracks tend to obscure the path, which is less well marked than on the way there. Cross the road again and continue along the path to the car park (S/E).

You can extend the hike by climbing up to the Cabane de Valsorey (3,037 m) at the foot of the Grand Combin.
For more information, see: Cabane de Valsorey
Allow around 2 hours for the climb (very difficult) and 1 hour 15 minutes for the descent.