Col d’Anon, Col des Lauzes (no. 7)

Description

A primarily forest-based route offering a fine vantage point overlooking the valley of Freissinières. Dark spruce forest, light-filled larch forest with grazing sheep, clearings. Running primarily on the north-facing slopes of the Fournel valley, this route takes you to the heights above the Freissinières valley just long enough to be amazed by the panoramic view! The route starts from the outset along a forest track. - After the first bend, take the track on the left which leads towards the Col d'Anon, rising through woods and clearings - At 1,750 metres altitude, just before the sheepfold of Les Lauzes ("Bergerie des Lauzes"), head left onto the track leading off along the hillside and coming out at the Col des Lauzes. Here you see the Freissinières valley. Carry on along the track which offers fine views over the valley - At the pastoral cabin of Les Balmettes, turn off onto the track on the right leading towards the Col d'Anon - Below this, turn left onto the path running almost along the hillside to Crouzet. Here, go downhill towards the recently-renovated chalet and continue downhill on a steep path - Head left to take another path which rises uphill and becomes increasingly grassy - Turn right down a path running downhill, which then zigzags - Lower down, you come to a track which leads smoothly back to your starting point.

Difficulty

Official rating: moderate, by Parc national des Écrins.

Before you go

• Rescue services contact details: Secours Montagne(Mountain Rescue): +33 (0)4 92 22 22 22 or 112
• Show consideration for the work of farmers, livestock keepers and owners
• Take your litter home
• Do not take shortcuts across pastureland

Getting there

Start: Après le pont du Sapey en direction du Col d’Anon, L’Argentière-La Bessée, L'Argentière-la-Bessée (05).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Écrins, Licence Ouverte 2.0, Licence Ouverte 2.0 (Etalab) (destination.ecrins-parcnational.fr/trek/968194-VTT-N07---Col-des-Lauzes--Col-d-Anon). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 694 m, Parc national des Écrins