Summet of Finiels and Pelouse, Trail #17

Description

Run up to the summit of Finiels, around Le Truc du Travers de l'Homme, and back to the pass on the discovery trail. Throughout, enjoy the exceptional panoramic views over the valley. The first section is very calm, alternating between forest track and paths. Ideal for enjoying the splendid panoramic views. Then a pleasant descent to the hamlet of Finiels. Followed by a gradual climb to the summit of Finiels (1,699 metres, the highest point in Lozère), first on a forest track, then on the GR®70 long-distance hiking path. Finally an enjoyable descent on “the path less travelled” through forest and pastureland. Follow the waymarks for #17. Signposts will guide you all along this route, as well as yellow painted waymarks. In the description below, the signposted place names and/or directions are given in bold italics between quotation marks: From "Col de Finiels", take : - "Bas du Col Plat", - "Col Plat", - "Font de Sénebébios", and then "Le Cougnets". - At "Le Cougnets" head downhill to - "Pont de la colonie". Then take "Abri forestier de Mallevrière" via : - "Travers de l'Homme". - At the Mallevrière foresters’ shelter, go uphill to "Sommet de Finiels" via : - "Valat de la Mouline", and then - "Route Forestière des Crêtes". - At "Sommet de Finiels" return to "Col de Finiels" via : - "Col de la draille" and - "Sous le Col de Finiels". This hike is taken from the guidebook Mont Lozère, Pays des sources, published by the Pôle de pleine nature du mont Lozère.

Difficulty

Official rating: easy, by Parc national des Cévennes.

Before you go

• The summit is often windy, don’t forget your windcheater. Do not attempt this trail during strong fog or strong winds. Be particularly vigilant when there is snow and/or fog. Caution: livestock guard dogs (patous) in the Cassini area ! Seek advice on how to behave near these dogs from tourist offices and National Park information centres. Before committing yourself to a circuit, ensure that it is suitable for your activity level and ability. Remember that the weather changes quickly in the mountains. Please close all gates and barriers behind you. Stay on the marked path.

Getting there

Start: Col de Finiels, Cubières (48).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Cévennes, Licence Ouverte 1.0, Licence Ouverte 1.0 (Etalab) (destination.cevennes-parcnational.fr/trek/74837-Sommet-de-Finiels-et-Pelouse---Trail-n17). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 465 m, Parc national des Cévennes