The Béal Neuf canal: canals and men, an iconic history

Description

Roam along the waters of the Béal Neuf canal! A waterside route taking you along the path followed by the Béal Neuf canal, the embodiment of men's enormous efforts to irrigate their fields! An exploration that also offers enjoyment of the surrounding landscapes and unrivalled views over the Vallouise valley and the Pelvoux. From the car park, take the path running above the road (signs for the Béal Neuf). It runs level at first and then drops sharply along the side of a stream before levelling out again just above-the road. The path comes to a track; turn right onto this and carry on downhill for 50 metres. - Turn left to cross the mountain stream La Juliane (no footbridge). You then continue downhill again, passing a cross, and a little further down turn left onto the path following a new section of the Béal. - When you reach the Rif Paulin stream, retrace your steps back to your starting point.

Difficulty

Official rating: very easy, by Parc national des Écrins.

Before you go

• Access to the canal is prohibited for herds or flocks of animals and all vehicles (motorised or otherwise).
• There is an alternative section following the Béal Neuf canal: “Du torrent au canal” (from the mountain stream to the canal). It starts 1 kilometre above the starting point of this last path, near a picnic table-nique.
• Check weather conditions before setting off.
• 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
• Close all gates behind you
• Take your litter home
• Do not take shortcuts across pastureland

Getting there

Start: Route de Chambran, Vallouise-Pelvoux (05).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Écrins, Licence Ouverte 2.0, Licence Ouverte 2.0 (Etalab) (destination.ecrins-parcnational.fr/trek/962681-Le-Beal-Neuf-%3A-les-canaux-et-les-hommes%2C-une-histoire-emblematique). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 170 m, Parc national des Écrins