Mine Trail

Embark on a difficult 11.6-mile (18.6 km) loop tour to Bric Ghinivert, a challenging hike in the Val Troncea Natural Park that demands 8 hours and 35 minutes of your time. You will gain 4279 feet (1304 metres) in elevation, traversing a landscape that transforms from elegant larch and stone pine forests along the Chisone stream to flowering alpine meadows. As you ascend, the path becomes steeper, leading to rugged rock walls and majestic peaks, culminating in a climb over scree and rocky sections to the summit. From Bric Ghinivert, you are rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding alpine landscape, including Monviso and the Écrins mountains. Along the way, you will also pass small lakes near the Colle del Beth. This route is known for its extensive alpine views and diverse terrain. It is the most popular hiking route in the Val Troncea Natural Park. The initial part of the trail from Pattemouche often follows a relatively flat dirt road along the Chisone stream, passing by the Troncea Refuge. Beyond the forests, the path becomes steeper as it gains elevation, leading to more open, wilder alpine environments. The final ascent to Bric Ghinivert (3,037 meters) involves a climb over scree and rocky sections. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding alpine landscape, including the Monviso, Valle Argentera, Écrins mountains, Monte Chaberton, and Pic de Rochebrune. Near the Colle del Beth, which is part of the route to Bric Ghinivert, there are also small lakes. This hike requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and alpine experience. The final meters to the peak can be exposed and sometimes involve minor scrambling, so pay close attention. The Val Troncea Natural Park, encompassing 3,280 hectares, features a distinctive U-shaped valley carved by glacial erosion, with the Chisone stream flowing through it. The landscape transitions from elegant larch and stone pine forests at lower elevations to flowering alpine meadows higher up, especially vibrant in spring and summer. The valley is even known as the "Valley of Flowers," where hikers can spot edelweiss, Alpine asters, and great yellow gentians. As you ascend, the scenery gives way to rugged rock walls and majestic peaks, many exceeding 3,000 meters, offering extraordinary alpine panoramas. The trail also passes by historic hamlets and provides insights into the region's mining history, including the Beth Mines. Wildlife such as chamois, ibex, roe deer, red deer, marmots, and the golden eagle can be observed in the park. The Val Troncea Natural Park is a "treasure chest of biodiversity," known for its "Valley of Flowers" and diverse wildlife, including chamois and ibex. The trail passes through areas with historical importance, including ancient hamlets and the former Beth Mines, which played a role in supplying timber for the Fortress of Fenestrelle. The park's distinct U-shaped valley is a clear result of millennia of glacial erosion, adding a unique geological dimension to the hike. This specific loop tour is highlighted as the most popular hiking route in the Val Troncea Natural Park.

Embark on the challenging Colle del Beth Loop via the Mines, a difficult hike spanning 11.2 miles (18.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3619 feet (1103 metres). This demanding route will take you around 7 hours and 41 minutes to complete, winding through the diverse landscapes of Val Troncea Natural Park. You will ascend through fragrant larch forests before the terrain shifts to rocky and scree sections, offering expansive views of peaks like Punta Rognosa. The highlight is reaching Colle del Beth, where you'll discover the serene Beth lakes, often still partially frozen, with the impressive Bric Ghinivert dominating the skyline.

This difficult hike requires very good fitness and some alpine experience, so plan your day accordingly. It's wise to start early to allow ample time for the 7-hour and 41-minute duration. Be prepared for varied terrain, including old mule tracks and steep sections that demand sure-footedness. If you plan to use the Colle del Beth Bivouac, remember it might be closed; contact the Val Troncea Natural Park office in advance to inquire about key reservations.

Beyond the natural beauty, this trail offers a unique glimpse into the region's past. As you traverse the route, you'll encounter historical mining tracks and intriguing ruins, adding a layer of industrial heritage to the stunning alpine scenery. These remnants tell a story of human endeavor in a rugged environment, making the Colle del Beth Loop a journey through both nature and history.