The Montbrison tour (trail route no. 13)

Description

A splendid circuit around the Montbrison massif against a backdrop of pine forests, alpine pastures and cliffs, its high point being a stunning crossing over the Col de Vallouise. “This is a mega-itinerary. Of course, the highlight is the crossing over the Col de Vallouise, at the end of a long climb. A splendid descent through alpine pastures awaits us, before entering the forest again.” Marie-Geneviève Nicolas, park ranger at the Parc National des Écrins. From the Le Courounba campsite, head to the bridge spanning the Gyronde. Turn right as you exit the bridge. - Turn left after the restaurants and carry on along the Rif Cros mountain stream. - Fork left and cross the mountain stream. Follow the hairpin track and balcony traverse until you come to the hamlet of Le Bouchier. Carry on uphill. - Continue on the left-hand track to reach the Col de la Trancoulette. - At the Col de la Trancoulette start the descent to the left, taking the marked route on the south-facing side of the valley to return to Les Vigneaux and your starting point.

Difficulty

Official rating: difficult, by Parc national des Écrins.

Before you go

• Before setting off, it is very important to check the opening periods for this route on the website: https://stationdetrail.com/fr/stations/le-pays-des-ecrins/parcours
• Share your photographs on social networks with #stationdetrailecrins
• 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
• The trail routes are also suitable for walking

Getting there

Start: Parking pont du Rif, Les Vigneaux, Les Vigneaux (05).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Écrins, Licence Ouverte 2.0, Licence Ouverte 2.0 (Etalab) (destination.ecrins-parcnational.fr/trek/958306-Trail-N13---Le-tour-du-Montbrison). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 1,920 m, Parc national des Écrins