Description
Peaceful valleys where cabins seem to drift off into a dream.
The access trail requires a high-clearance vehicle. The access trail crosses fords: check the weather before setting out.
Leave your car at the end of the trail that follows the Couleau stream upstream. The hike begins with a gentle slope through the woods on the right flank of the mountain. The trail becomes steeper, but you’ll soon be rewarded with a waterfall plunging into a turquoise pool. The trail then opens onto an alpine meadow nestled in a majestic cirque at the gateway to the Ecrins. Below the Châteauroux hut, cross the stream to reach the right bank. The trail then descends gently to the Pré Charnier hut. Continue along a winding trail toward the old slate quarry. Once on the forest road, walk 300 meters and turn left toward the Couleau stream. The loop is complete once you cross the footbridge.
Warning: Between the St. Clément hut and the Pré Charnier hut—specifically near the Châteauroux hut or the Couleau—you are in the heart of the Ecrins National Park, which means dogs are strictly prohibited!!
Outside this area, dogs on a leash are permitted.
In spring and fall, conditions are changeable; even without snow, the trail can be icy. Therefore, when hiking in the mountains, always make sure to “go out well-equipped.” In my backpack, I pack or clip on: crampons and trekking poles.
In winter, the essentials are: snowshoes, trekking poles, gloves, a hat, sunscreen, and… a survival blanket! Experience is essential, and knowing when to turn back is sometimes better than taking risks. And for newcomers to the mountains, we recommend hiring a professional! Before heading out, I check the Météo France Montagnes reports and the BERA (avalanche and risk alerts).
Plain text period
All year round daily.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
