Hiking - Col de la Vanoise from Pralognan: a wilderness route in the heart of Vanoise National Park
It has it all: a pristine setting, glacial landscapes, whistling marmots and a breathtaking view of the Grande Casse! In short, a must-do hike to discover Vanoise National Park.
The route takes you through the Vallon des Arollets, which takes its name from the Arolla pines (Swiss pines) that are plentiful at this altitude! The ascent through the Arcelin glacial cirque offers a stunning view of the great vertical faces of Moriond, the Aiguilles de l’Arcelin and Grand Marchet. Completely dried up since 1995, Lac des Assiettes is a curiosity along the route. Col de la Vanoise, the starting point for a multitude of glacial routes, in turn offers a hypnotic panorama.From the car park, head to the bottom of the Génépi chairlift and follow the vehicle track that goes off to the right below.
After 500 metres, you will reach a bridge. Continue on the track that climbs up on your left after the bridge. Follow this track until you reach a ford. 50 metres after the ford, take the path that goes off to the right.
Continue climbing to reach the base of the rock face 500 metres further on, at the entrance to the national park's core area. On this section, the route splits into several paths.
After a relatively steep climb, turn left at the junction, heading towards Col de la Vanoise. After about 300 metres of elevation gain, you will come to a junction. Continue straight on, following the bottom of the Arcelin valley.
You will cross an area of somewhat slippery rock slabs, then climb up to the dried-up Lac des Assiettes, which you will cross before reaching the Col de la Vanoise refuge.