The best walks and hikes around Lac de Saint-Guérin

There are 15 hiking routes around Lac de Saint-Guérin listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences. These include 8 moderate and 7 difficult trails, catering to different fitness levels.

Hikers will encounter a stunning alpine setting with crystalline waters, verdant prairies, and expansive alpine pastures. Key natural features include the emerald blue Lac de Saint-Guérin itself and the dramatic Poncellamont gorge. You can also experience the thrilling Saint-Guérin Dam and the 83-meter-long Himalayan footbridge, which offers spectacular views over the lake and surrounding mountains.

While the komoot guide primarily lists moderate and difficult routes, the region offers an accessible loop around Lac de Saint-Guérin, which can be completed in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Part of this route, known as the 'Savoyard Discovery Walk' along the eastern shore, is designed to be comfortable and accessible, even for people with reduced mobility when accompanied. This section includes crossing the Himalayan footbridge.

Yes, several circular routes are available. A popular moderate option is the Lac de Saint-Guérin – Lake Saint-Guérin loop from Barrage de Saint-Guérin, which is 11.1 km long with a 622-meter elevation gain. For a more challenging experience, the Lake Saint-Guérin – Lake Saint-Guérin loop from Barrage de Saint-Guérin covers 16.3 km with over 1,140 meters of elevation.

Yes, the area boasts beautiful natural water features. The Lake Saint-Guérin – Fairy Lake loop from Barrage de Saint-Guérin is a moderate 13.15 km route that leads through green mountain slopes, past streams, and features waterfalls, culminating at the picturesque Lac des Fées with its crystal clear water.

The best time for hiking is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the alpine pastures are green and the trails are clear of snow. During the high season, free shuttle services are available, making access to the area easier for hikers.

The trails around Lac de Saint-Guérin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 9,000 hikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the stunning panoramic views, the emerald lake, and the unique experience of crossing the Himalayan footbridge.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, routes like the Lake Saint-Guérin – La Coire Refuge loop from Barrage de Saint-Guérin offer a significant challenge. This 19.4 km trail involves over 1,000 meters of elevation gain and requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, and alpine experience. Hikes to Le Grand Mont also provide expansive panoramas but are considered difficult.

No, swimming and unsupervised water activities are generally prohibited in the mountain lakes around Lac de Saint-Guérin. This measure is in place to help preserve the delicate biodiversity of these alpine environments.

The trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Beaufortain massif. You can expect distant glimpses of Mont Blanc and other majestic peaks such as the Roc du Vent and La Pierra Menta. The Himalayan footbridge also provides spectacular vistas of the lake, the Aravis mountain range, and Pointe Percée.

Hikers should be aware that some parts of the area, particularly the western shore of Lac de Saint-Guérin, have previously been subject to municipal decrees closing access due to rockfall risks. Always check local conditions and signage before heading out. For more challenging routes, sturdy shoes and alpine experience are recommended.