Travers des lacs par l'Alpe du Pin
Between the Alpe du Pin refuge and the Mariande glacial lock, this route allows you to pass over the peaceful plateau of Travers des Lacs, crossing various habitats characteristic of the Vénéon valley.
From the Granges car park, take the path marked “Refuge de l'Alpe du Pin”. Go down below the hamlet, then take the small stone bridge that spans the Vénéon (remember to close the barrier properly).
Then take the winding path that climbs towards the Cold Pisse waterfall, visible on the right during the climb. Follow the path to the small refuge of Alpe du Pin for a meal and/or refreshment break. Then follow the path marked "Vallon de la Mariande". Cross the wetlands, ericaceous moors or glacial scree and enjoy successive views of the Tête des Fétoules and the Barre des Ecrins via the gentle flat area across the lakes to the glacial lock of Mariande.
Just before the lock rises at the intersection, turn left towards Le Clot (Forêt de la Gassaudia). Go down the winding path in the forest, until you reach the Cascade de la Mariande.
Turn left towards Saint Christophe, for a return along the Vénéon, slightly uphill. Cross the bridge, always making sure to close the barrier properly, then go back up to the Granges car park.
Then take the winding path that climbs towards the Cold Pisse waterfall, visible on the right during the climb. Follow the path to the small refuge of Alpe du Pin for a meal and/or refreshment break. Then follow the path marked "Vallon de la Mariande". Cross the wetlands, ericaceous moors or glacial scree and enjoy successive views of the Tête des Fétoules and the Barre des Ecrins via the gentle flat area across the lakes to the glacial lock of Mariande.
Just before the lock rises at the intersection, turn left towards Le Clot (Forêt de la Gassaudia). Go down the winding path in the forest, until you reach the Cascade de la Mariande.
Turn left towards Saint Christophe, for a return along the Vénéon, slightly uphill. Cross the bridge, always making sure to close the barrier properly, then go back up to the Granges car park.
