Located in the heart of Isère, in the Écrins massif, the resort of Les Deux Alpes is particularly known for its ski area and glacier. However, when the snow disappears, the mountain reveals a completely different face: the alpine landscapes then become an ideal playground for hiking enthusiasts, with trails allowing you to discover high-altitude lakes, alpine pastures, waterfalls, summits, and magnificent panoramas of the surrounding massifs.
While summer is ideal for discovering alpine flora and fauna, winter is perfect for exploring sumptuous snow-covered peaks, a typical mountain panorama that brings thousands of enthusiasts back each year to discover the various trails of Les Deux Alpes. Do you want to know more, or even be part of the adventure? Then discover the hikes of Les Deux Alpes, and fully enjoy the natural richness of the mountains.
The Best Summer Hiking Routes in Les Deux Alpes
There are many hiking opportunities around the resort of Les Deux Alpes. To help you choose the one that suits you best, here is a selection of particularly interesting routes to vary your pleasures during your stay:
The Lac du Lauvitel loop
This is one of the essential hikes in Oisans; located in the Vénéon valley, Lac du Lauvitel, considered the heart of the Écrins National Park, is in a particularly preserved environment. The route requires some effort, especially due to the elevation gain, but the beauty of the lake surrounded by mountains amply rewards hikers. Plan a full day for this hike.
The hike to the Refuge de la Muzelle
This hike is more suited for walkers accustomed to mountain outings. The itinerary gradually leads into a high-mountain environment and reaches a refuge set in a spectacular setting. The route can be demanding, difficult in some sections, but it offers a true immersion in the landscapes of the Écrins massif.
The Emparis plateau
Another exceptional outing for lovers of grand panoramas: the trails cross vast high-altitude areas and offer spectacular views of La Meije and the Écrins glaciers. The contrast between the green meadows and the rocky peaks is particularly impressive in summer. You can choose the variant that suits you and adapt the duration of your hike according to your level.
The Chamois trail
This trail, accessible via the Diable télémixte, offers a spectacular panorama at 2,400 meters altitude, giving you the opportunity to admire the Vénéon Valley and observe chamois. Two loops are available depending on your level: the “Apprenti Cabri” (Apprentice Kid), a 1.5-kilometer route ideal for a family-friendly and fun approach to the mountains, and the “Maitre Chamois” (Master Chamois), a 1.5-kilometer route for the more athletic.
Lac du Chambon and its surroundings
For a more accessible hike, head to the Lac du Chambon area; trails will allow you to go around this artificial lake, created by the Chambon dam, surrounded by impressive reliefs. This is a good option for a leisurely outing or to complement a day dedicated to discovering Oisans.
The trails around Venosc
These trails allow you to discover the region from another angle; the routes cross the landscapes of Oisans, which oscillate between forests, torrents, and traditional villages. There is a cable car connecting Les Deux Alpes to Venosc, which also allows combining hiking with discovering local heritage.
The Fayots Challenge
If you’re looking for a walk suitable for everyone, the Fayots Challenge is for you! At the summit of Vallée Blanche, a 2 km loop with a very gentle elevation gain awaits you between June and August. Along the way, 5 fun challenges invite children to move a giant wooden marble through structures while you enjoy the panorama of the Oisans peaks. Allow about 1h30, a little more if you take a picnic break.
The Hiking Map of Les Deux Alpes
Before setting off, consulting a map of the hiking trails in Les Deux Alpes is essential. It allows you to visualize the different accessible sectors from the resort and better understand distances, elevation gains, and walking times.
The Les Deux Alpes Tourist Office is a good starting point for obtaining up-to-date information on itineraries, trail conditions, and any restrictions. Detailed hiking maps also allow you to plan loops by combining several paths.
Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing in Les Deux Alpes
When winter arrives, the trails of Les Deux Alpes completely change their appearance. Snow covers the paths and transforms the landscapes into a true alpine setting. Also, snowshoeing becomes one of the best ways to discover the mountains away from the ski slopes.
There are several marked trails that allow you to walk peacefully through snow-covered forests and alpine pastures, in Olympic calm. Be vigilant, however: an easy summer route can become much more difficult under snow. The risks of avalanche, ice, or poor visibility must be taken into account before each outing.
Tips for Preparing Your Mountain Hike
A hike in Les Deux Alpes requires taking into account the altitude and weather conditions. Even when it’s warm at the resort, temperatures can be significantly cooler as you gain altitude.
Your equipment must therefore be adapted to the activity and the season. In summer, opt for hiking shoes, water, sun protection, and a trail map. In winter, warm, dry clothing, as well as spiked shoes, are necessary, especially if you plan to go snowshoeing and are out for several hours.
It is also important to choose a route corresponding to your level and physical condition. Do not hesitate to ask for advice from the Les Deux Alpes tourist office or local professionals.
Finally, be sure to respect the environment: stay on marked trails, leave no waste, and observe wildlife without disturbing it.
Les Deux Alpes, an Ideal Destination for Mountain Hiking Enthusiasts
With its varied trails, high-altitude lakes, wild valleys, and panoramas of the Écrins peaks, Les Deux Alpes is a particularly interesting destination for mountain hiking. Whether you want to go for a short family walk, discover Lac du Lauvitel, reach a refuge, or venture onto the more athletic routes of Oisans, everyone can find a route suited to their level.
So, ready to explore the trails of Les Deux Alpes? Then book the accommodation you need in the region with us, check the weather conditions, and lose yourself in a sumptuous landscape, in summer as in winter.
