Les Cabanes du Vallon du Couleau

Leave the car at the end of the track up the Couleau torrent. The hike begins with a gentle slope through the woods on the right-hand side of the mountain. The path becomes steeper, but is soon rewarded by a waterfall plunging into a turquoise pool. The path then opens out onto a mountain pasture in the hollow of a majestic cirque at the gateway to the Ecrins. Below the Châteauroux hut, cross the torrent to the right bank. The path then descends gently to the Pré Charnier hut. Continue along a winding path to the former slate quarry. Once on the forest track, count 300m and turn left towards the Couleau torrent. The loop is complete once you've crossed the footbridge.

Please note: Between the St Clément hut and the Pré Charnier hut, at the Châteauroux or Couleau hut, we are in the heart of the Ecrins National Park, which means that dogs are not allowed!
Outside this zone, dogs on a leash are allowed.

Please note that in winter, from Pont de Chanterane to Pont de Peyre Bartino, the route is a cross-country ski trail! It is therefore reserved exclusively for cross-country skiing.
In spring and autumn, conditions are changeable, and even without snow, the trail can be icy. So, in the mountains, the reflex to adopt is "go out well-equipped". In my bag, I slip or I hang: crampons and poles.

In winter, the right reflexes are: snowshoes, poles, gloves, hat, sun cream and... a survival blanket! Experience is essential, and knowing when to give up is sometimes preferable to taking risks. And if you're new to the mountains, we advise you to seek professional advice! Before going out, I check the Météo France Montagnes and BERA bulletins (risks and avalanches).

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