The best walks and hikes around Lacs de Crupillouse

There are over 60 hiking trails in the Lacs de Crupillouse area, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes to explore.

Hikers will encounter a stunning chain of seven glacial lakes, with the superior and inferior lakes being the largest. The landscape is also characterized by unique white-pink gneiss rocks, smoothly polished by ancient glaciers, and numerous waterfalls and cascades that enhance the visual appeal of the ascent. You'll also be treated to magnificent panoramic views across the Drac de Champoléon valley.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for moderate hikers. For example, the Prelles Waterfall – Refuge de la Chaumette loop from Les Clots is a moderate 14.5 km trail featuring waterfalls and alpine scenery. There are 27 moderate and 13 easy routes available in the region.

The region is rich in alpine wildlife. You might spot Ibex, especially in the Aiguilles de Crupillouse during summer, and approximately sixty chamois are regular inhabitants of the Crupillouse valley. The area is also a breeding ground for the Rock Ptarmigan, and you might even encounter the distinctive 'Popeye' locust.

The best time to hike is generally during the warmer months. However, due to the high-altitude, mineral-rich environment, snow can linger on north-facing rock flanks even in summer, and higher lakes can remain ice-bound until June in colder years. Starting your hike early in the day is recommended, as southern slopes warm quickly and clouds often gather over the lakes by early afternoon in summer.

Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. Popular options include the moderate Prelles Waterfall – Refuge de la Chaumette loop from Les Clots and the more challenging Waterfalls – Lake Crupillouse loop from Les Baumes, which takes you to the glacial lakes.

The trails are known for being long and arduous, featuring numerous switchbacks, crossings, and substantial elevation gains, often exceeding 1,300 meters. Hikers navigate rocky inclines, scree slopes, and sections above cascading waters, making for a demanding yet rewarding experience.

While the region is part of the Écrins Massif, which has specific regulations for dogs, generally, dogs are permitted on a leash on many trails outside the core zone of the National Park. Always check local signage and specific trail regulations before heading out with your dog, especially in protected alpine environments.

Yes, opportunities for bivouacking are available in select flat areas overlooking the lakes. This allows hikers to experience the serene beauty of the high-altitude environment overnight, but always adhere to local regulations and leave no trace.

The trails in Lacs de Crupillouse are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 550 reviews. Hikers often praise the breathtaking alpine landscapes, the unique glacial lakes, and the rewarding panoramic views after strenuous ascents.

Yes, hikers can discover an old refuge along the trail. This refuge once housed workers involved in a hydroelectric project to merge two lakes in the 1910s, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your journey.

Hike durations vary significantly based on difficulty and length. Moderate routes like the Prelles Waterfall – Refuge de la Chaumette loop from Les Clots can take around 5 hours, while more difficult and longer trails, such as the Refuge de la Chaumette – Prelles Waterfall loop from Massif des Écrins, can take over 10 hours to complete.