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Park at Les Bruyères, at an altitude of 1,200 metres, near a restaurant/bar and two ski lifts.
From the car park, locate the Col du Grapillon and the southern peak of Mont Outheran.
(S) Take the path to the right of the inn, which quickly enters the forest, then crosses a large clearing and re-enters the forest.
A few bends later, the path emerges at the Col du Grapillon at an altitude of 1,509 metres.
(1) At the pass, leave La Cochette on your left and Saint Thibault de Couz opposite, and head right towards the southern cliff of Mont Outheran.
The trail climbs gently through the forest, with occasional glimpses of the cliff you will need to climb.
Near the foot of the cliff, the slope becomes steeper, but a few switchbacks make it easier.
At the foot of the cliff, go around it to the right, i.e. to the east, following the path for a few dozen metres as it becomes more exposed.
Then comes the moment when you will need to stow your walking poles in your rucksack, as you will need both hands to climb the Pas du Cuert, which leads to the plateau of Mont Outheran.
(2) This is the tricky part of the route, so those who are afraid of heights should refrain from attempting it. In dry and clear weather, the difficulty is not insurmountable, but always ensure you have three points of contact.
Exit onto the plateau near the highest point at 1,676 m. The cross is at 1,673 m.
Continue across the plateau in a south-north direction, staying on the path, which is still marked in yellow (the paint marks are close together).
The route continues over the sharp limestone pavement between sinkholes and karstic caves. Some chasms are less than 1m from the path and are not specially marked or protected, so keep your eyes open and watch where you put your feet.
Before beginning the descent to the Mollard pass, the trail passes by a hut that can be used as a shelter.
(3) During the descent, continue to watch your step carefully as the stones on the path have an unfortunate tendency to roll underfoot.
Pass through a sheep gate, then reach the bottom of the descent near the Col du Mollard.
(4) Head south on the wide track to reach the cross-country ski centre first. Note the beautiful new stopover lodge, then take the D45 to the car park (E).
The return trip in the late afternoon is particularly pleasant along the edge of the flower-filled meadows, not to mention the smell of cut hay.
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