Travers des lacs par l'Alpe du Pin - Mountainside crossing between the lakes via the Alpe du Pin refuge

Description

Between the Alpe du Pin mountain refuge and the glacial rock bar of La Mariande, this itinerary takes you across the tranquil plateau of the mountainside crossing between the lakes (known as a "travers" in the region), passing through a variety of habitats characteristic of the Vénéon valley. Sensations come thick and fast along this tranquil trail. The power of the waterfall, the tranquillity of the refuge and the breathtaking view over some of the highest peaks in the massif, fill us by turn with elation and a feeling of calm. An excursion that gives us the full measure of the wild beauty of Les Écrins. - From the car park in Les Granges, take the path signposted« Refuge de l'Alpe du Pin ». Drop down below the hamlet and then cross the small stone bridge spanning the Vénéon (be sure to close the gate behind you). - Then take the path winding up towards the Cascade de la Froide Pisse waterfall, which could be seen on the right as you climbed uphill. Follow the path until you come to the small Alpe du Pin refuge for a meal and/or refreshment break. Then follow the path signposted « Vallon de la Mariande ». Cross wetlands, heather moors and glacial screes and enjoy a succession of impressive views of the Tête des Fétoules and the Barre des Écrins along the gentle flat area on the mountainside crossing between the lakes, and on to the glacial rock bar of La Mariande. - Just before climbing up to the rock bar at the intersection, turn left towards Le Clot (Forêt de la Gassaudia). Drop down on the path which twists and turns through the forest until you come to a waterfall, the Cascade de la Mariande. - Turn left towards Saint Christophe and back along the Vénéon, rising gently uphill. Cross the bridge, again being sure to close the gate behind you, and then carry on up to the car park in Les Granges.

Difficulty

Official rating: moderate, by Parc national des Écrins.

Before you go

• To make the most of the flora featured on this trail, plan it in June or early July. The loop can be completed in the opposite direction, from the car park in Le Clot.

Getting there

Start: Les Granges, Saint-Christophe-en-Oisans (38).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Écrins, Licence Ouverte 2.0, Licence Ouverte 2.0 (Etalab) (destination.ecrins-parcnational.fr/trek/958396-Travers-des-lacs-par-l-Alpe-du-Pin). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 668 m, Parc national des Écrins