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.
(S) At the start, near Ravin des Serres, you are in the Écrins National Park (see Practical Information). Take the GR®54A (red and white markings) westwards to climb the Pas de la Cavale.
(1) At the Pas de la Cavale pass, change GR® and take the GR®54 on the left (follow until the end), the path descends on the other side of the pass towards the Refuge du Pré de la Chaumette.
(2) From the Refuge du Pré de la Chaumette, turn right onto the GR®54 towards the Col de Gouiran, passing first through the Col de la Vallette.
(3) Be careful in this area ( see photo): on the trail, just before the Col de la Vallette, there is a steeper section where you may need to use your hands. At Col de Gouiran, descend to the next junction.
(4) Continue straight on the GR® and head towards Col de Vallonpierre.
(5) Be careful in this area ( see photo): on the trail, just before Col de Vallonpierre, there is a narrow passage on the mountainside. These few metres must be crossed with caution. At Col de Vallonpierre, descend towards the lake to reach the Vallonpierre Refuge (E).
Please note: this route crosses the Écrins National Park. See park regulations.
Information about the route:
The ideal time to hike is from July to September. Outside this period, there is late snow (Pas de la Cavale / Col de Vallonpierre).
Time taken by the author of the hike: 8 hours (with a 15 kg backpack).
Frequency of use: average.
There is no mobile phone coverage along the entire route.
Accommodation:
(S) Bivouac near the Torrent de Fournel or GR® shelter nearby, more info here: https://www.refuges.info/ (very poor mobile phone coverage). (E) Bivouac at the Refuge de Vallonpierre (no mobile phone coverage).
To open this route on your smartphone, you must have the Visorando app installed. If not, got to the Apple Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) to download the app.