Walks and hikes: explore Alpe d’Huez in summer!
In summer, Alpe d’Huez becomes a true playground for nature lovers.
Whether you’re a beginner hiker or an experienced adventurer, set off to discover panoramic trails, sparkling mountain lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints!
Le sentier des lacs
Duration: 1h30 (about 3h round trip)
Level: Easy – Family-friendly
Map: Hike no. 19-18-20
Set off on a pleasant high-altitude walk to discover the mountain lakes of Alpe d’Huez.
This accessible trail takes you to the heart of the Grandes Rousses mountain range.
Along the way, admire the beauty of the alpine landscapes and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Each lake offers its own unique atmosphere:
Lac Besson: Perfect for a family picnic, watch the fish and enjoy the panoramic view.
Lac Noir: Mysterious and deep, known for the dark color of its waters.
Lac Faucille: A small lake with clear water, peaceful and charming.
Lac Carrelet: A unique viewpoint, ideal for your best souvenir photos.
An unmissable walk for all ages, and a highlight of your stay at Alpe d’Huez!
📍Access: Pic Blanc 1 gondola (formerly DMC 1) / Round-trip ticket up to 2,100 m
Hikes around Lac Blanc
Starting point: Arrival of the Pic Blanc 2 gondola (8,858 ft / 2,700 m)
From the arrival point of the Pic Blanc 2 cable car, set off to discover spectacular landscapes between mountain peaks, an alpine lake, and a mineral plateau.
Four routes are available for all levels, with one common feature: a walk through the heart of the Grandes Rousses Massif and breathtaking views of the mythical Lac Blanc.
Route 1: Col du Lac Blanc – History and Panorama
Distance: 2.4 km | Duration: 1h | Elevation change: -190 m / +30 m (-623 ft / +98 ft)
A must-do hike leading you to the Col du Lac Blanc, located at 2,800 m altitude (9,186 ft / 2,800 m), at the foot of Pic Blanc (10,925 ft / 3,330 m).
Did you know this summit was once called “Pic du Lac Blanc”? This path, dotted with interpretive signs, immerses you in the history of the Sarenne Glacier. A small botanical garden also enhances the route, perfect for nature and heritage lovers.
Route 2: Balcons du Lac Blanc – Panoramic views and thrills
Distance: 2.6 km (round trip) | Duration: 1h15 | Elevation change: -115 m / +115 m (-377 ft / +377 ft)
This accessible round-trip trail offers a superb viewpoint over Lac Blanc and the Alpe d’Huez resort.
Ideal for hikers seeking exceptional panoramic views, this route includes a few technical sections.
Route 3 : Le Tour du Lac Blanc – Sporty and immersive loop
Distance: 3.8 km | Duration: 1h45 | Elevation change: -210 m / +210 m (-689 ft / +689 ft)
This sporty loop circles the entire Lac Blanc, offering continuous views over its clear waters.
Reserved for experienced hikers, it includes several technical sections and requires good physical condition.
Route 4 : La Boucle du Lac Blanc – Peaceful discovery of the plateau
Distance: 0.9 km | Duration: 1h | Elevation change: -90 m / +90 m (-295 ft / +295 ft)
Perfect for a family walk or a first discovery of the area, this short loop immerses you in the unique atmosphere of the Lac Blanc plateau.
Easily accessible via ski lifts, it invites you to take your time in the heart of a mineral and wild landscape.
Route 7 : La Boucle du Signal – 360° View over the Oisans
Distance: 6 km | Duration: 2h | Elevation change: -250 m / +30 m (-295 ft / +295 ft)
A classic route starting from the summit of Le Signal, offering breathtaking views over the Oisans massif, the Alpe d’Huez area, and far beyond. A gentle and accessible route for all levels of hikers.
Route 8 : Les Coqs – Gentle forest descent
Distance: 3.3 km | Duration: 1h10 | Elevation change: -250 m / +10 m (-820 ft / +33 ft)
After sharing the initial section with the Signal Loop, this trail gently descends towards the Alpe d’Huez resort.
You’ll follow a panoramic path with an orientation table and benches for a scenic break.
The end of the trail takes you through a forested area, ideal for a peaceful and refreshing hike.
Route 9 : La Combe du Bras – Airy ridge and challenging Descent
Distance: 6.1 km | Duration: 2h25 | Elevation change: -560 m / +45 m (-1,837 ft / +148 ft)
This sporty trail follows a ridge offering stunning views before plunging into the Bras forest down to the village of Alpe d’Huez. Technical and demanding in certain sections, it will thrill experienced hikers seeking strong sensations and wild nature.
Route 10 : vers Villard-Reculas – Balcony over the Bourg-d’Oisans plain
Distance: 7 km | Duration: 2h30 | Elevation change: -545 m / +40 m (-1,788 ft / +131 ft)
A beautiful balcony trail alternating between ridges and alpine pastures, offering continuous views of the Bourg-d’Oisans plain. This path leads you to the charming village of Villard-Reculas, in an authentic atmosphere.
Perfect for a contemplative hike between nature and local heritage.
