Hiking trail: the Lac noir

Cross the classified Clou valley and the Balmes mountain pastures to reach the Lac Noir, where beautiful views of the Balmes glaciers await you. Map available at the Tourist Office of the resort.

From the Échaillon car park, follow the forest track towards the hamlet of Échaillon and continue on to the listed hamlet of ‘Le Monal’. Walk through the hamlet of Le Monal and carry on straight ahead. Then cross the Clou valley, keeping the stream on your left; the Balmes glaciers are on your right. Next, follow the narrow path uphill to Lac Noir along the stream. Take the same route back. Please note: Access by car to the Échaillon car park is prohibited for all private vehicles from 1 July to 31 August under Municipal By-law 2024/36, which is renewable annually. This measure aims to preserve natural areas, wildlife and flora. Consequently, during the summer season (Monday to Friday), a free shuttle bus service operates from the Mélèzes car park at the Sainte-Foy resort (see Order 2024/36 via the link below: https://www.saintefoy-tarentaise.fr/arretes-municipaux-reglementant-lacces-aux-routes-dalpages/).