Les Eyssuches (no. 18)

Description

A circuit rated as difficult running on both sides of the Durance, starting from L'Argentière-la-Bessée. This circuit runs above the town of L'Argentière-la-Bessée. Stunning views of its industrial past (Pechiney factory), its exploitation of water (the hydroelectric power station) and the iconic ridge, the Crête de la Rortie. Then, a stretch running close to the Canyon de l'Ascension via La Roche-de-Rame and back along the right-hand bank of the Durance. The circuit starts right in the centre of town, not far from the bridge spanning the Durance. In fact, you need to cross this bridge to get to the main road - When you reach the main road, go straight across and up to the cemetery. Skirt around the cemetery on the north side, following a forest track - Where the tracks intersect, continue due south on the forest track - At the next intersection, go past the tank on your left and continue downhill on the track, heading due south - Leave the track, turning left onto a narrow path which runs through the forest and drops down to La Roche-de-Rame - After the chapel of Saint Roch de Géro, cross the mountain stream and take the narrow road on your right - Upstream from the main road, turn left into the bridge underpass - Carry on due south past the old waste collection site - At the bridge (Pont de Traverses), rejoin the road on the right-hand bank of the Durance and this brings you back to Plan Léothaud - Go right under the railway line and then left towards the leisure centre ("Base de loisirs") - You then rejoin the green route ("Voie Verte") and this brings you back to the starting point of the circuit

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
• Take your litter home
• Do not take shortcuts across pastureland

Getting there

Start: Place du kiosque, 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/970522-VTT-N18---Les-Eyssuches). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 288 m, Parc national des Écrins