Hiking trail : the Vallon du Clou

The Vallon du Clou is a protected site, which culminates at 3,567 m altitude at the Pointe des Chamois. A sportive hike to discover the Lac Noir perched at 2618 m and the views of the Balmes glacier. Map available at the Tourist Office.

From the Echaillon car park, continue along the forest road towards the hamlet of Echaillon and carry on to the listed hamlet of ‘Le Monal’. Walk through the hamlet of Le Monal and continue straight on. Shortly after entering the forest, take a path on the left which winds its way uphill. At the first junction after leaving the forest, turn right, then join and turn left onto the pastoral track leading up from Chenal and follow it towards Le Clou. Take a detour to the left to admire the memorial stone erected in the village of Le Clou. Follow 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 ‘Des Mélèzes’ car park at the Sainte-Foy resort (see by-law 2024/36 via the link below: https://www.saintefoy-tarentaise.fr/arretes-municipaux-reglementant-lacces-aux-routes-dalpages/).