Trek around Chambeyron Mountain Range (2) Pointe de Chauvet and Lac Noir

Starting at refuge du Chambeyron.

(S) Head north following the GRP "Tour du Chambeyron".

(1) At high point 2628, let the GRP head off to the right and keep heading north towards Pas de la Souvagea (pass). Keep heading north through a landscape which becomes more and more mineral. The trail turns left before reaching the pass.

(2) At the pass, do not take the trail heading north-west towards Maljasset small valley, instead head uphill to the right (north-east). Head off to the right (east) reaching a rocky ridge.

(3) Keep heading uphill, winding through the fallen rocks, sticking to a north-/north-east direction. The slope gradually gets steeper, finally reaching the summit.

(4) Start heading down the same way. A bit further down, locate an indentation allowing you to cross over to the eastern slope of the ridge (the left-hand side).

(3) Go left (south-east) along a footpath crossing the ridge and head downhill towards Lac Noir well in sight.

(5) Go around the right hand side of the lake. Get back to the GRP "Tour du Chambeyron" heading downhill to the right-hand side towards Lac Long.

(6) At the far end of the lake, turn right and follow the trail due west. Head downhill regaining the path you took at the beginning of the stage.

(1) Take a left, quickly regaining the shelter.

The hike uses trails that are sometimes outlined in the scree. When heading downhill, don't attempt to cross the ridge towards Lac Noir too early: wait until you reach the indentation which allows you to cross over to the lake easily (crossing earlier, you could find yourself stuck against rocky ledges). Be careful in any event. Only set about doing this stage in good weather.

Refuge du Chambeyron: shelter open from April to September. Catering, water source. Phone 04 92 84 33 83. No water sources apart from the stage shelters and gîtes so bring water supplies.

1/25000 scale map is a must. A compass wouldn't hurt...

La Pointe de Chauvet (or Pointe Aval) is one of the lowest points of Aiguilles de Chambeyron. You'll be able to enjoy a superb view point over the surrounding mountains ranges.