The best mountain hikes around La Motte-En-Champsaur
5.0
(5)
31
hikers
4
hikes
Mountaineering routes around La Motte-En-Champsaur are situated in the heart of the Champsaur valley, offering access to the dramatic mountain scenery of the Hautes-Alpes department. The region is characterized by impressive peaks, including the Vieux Chaillol at 3,163 meters, and diverse landscapes ranging from the Séveraissette valley's agricultural bocage to high alpine terrain. A significant portion of the area lies within the central zone of the Écrins National Park, featuring extensive forests, scree, and mountain lakes.
Best mountaineering routes around…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
17.4km
08:47
1,510m
1,510m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(3)
8
hikers
8.36km
03:14
390m
390m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5
hikers
14.7km
07:10
1,300m
1,310m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
Easy mountaineering route. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A nice place for a well-deserved break...
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This stone bridge, crossing a quiet stream, is surrounded by green hills and dense forests. If you want to take a break and dip your feet in the water, this is the perfect place!
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Great spot, really friendly, very helpful staff. BUT - call ahead to make a reservation if you want to eat their food (though I saw people using tables, with their own food). AND - take cash if you've planned to eat there (they don't take cards).
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Culminating at 2,354 meters, the Col de la Pisse offers beautiful panoramas of the Écrins massif.
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Don't hesitate to stop at this refuge for lunch (reservations recommended). The vegetarian menu or the charcuterie platter are excellent and the staff is super friendly.
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Valley walk ascending to the mountain hut, there you can use something and return via the other side of the mountain stream. Slightly steep descent at the end
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I recommend a stopover in this small village (the Hôtel du Mont-Olan is pleasant and the food is excellent) - many hikes can be done from this village or its surroundings to explore the Valgaudemar, a magnificent region
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Le Vieux Chaillol culminates at 3,163 meters above sea level. The summit offers a panoramic view of the high peaks of the Écrins.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountaineering routes are available around La Motte-En-Champsaur?
There are over 4 mountaineering routes documented around La Motte-En-Champsaur, offering a range of difficulties from easy paths to challenging ascents within the diverse landscapes of the Hautes-Alpes and Écrins National Park.
What is the best time of year for mountaineering in La Motte-En-Champsaur?
The most pleasant weather for mountaineering in La Motte-En-Champsaur is typically from May to September, with high chances of clear skies and over 300 days of sunshine annually. Winter months, particularly January and February, offer excellent conditions for ice climbing and ski mountaineering.
Are there any easy mountaineering routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, for an easier experience, consider the Les Oules du Diable loop from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar. This 3.0 km route takes about 1 hour 6 minutes and leads through unique geological formations, making it a great option for those looking for a less strenuous outing.
Can I find circular mountaineering routes in the area?
Many routes in the region are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Vieux Chaillol loop from Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol offers panoramic views over 17.4 km, while the moderate Refuge du Tourond loop from Champoléon is an 8.4 km circular path.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along these routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning features like the Cascade de la Pisse, the prominent summit of Vieux Chaillol, and various mountain passes such as Col du Viallet. The area also features picturesque mountain lakes like Lacs de Pétarel.
Are there any routes that pass through the Écrins National Park?
Yes, a significant portion of the mountaineering area around La Motte-En-Champsaur lies within the central zone of the Écrins National Park. Routes like the Vieux Chaillol loop from Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol offer extensive views of the high peaks within the park.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on the mountaineering routes?
You'll experience a diverse range of landscapes, from the agricultural bocage of the Séveraissette valley to dense forests of larch, fir, and beech, transitioning into rugged high-mountain terrain with deep gorges, rocky formations, and alpine meadows. The Drac River also offers picturesque, bucolic scenery.
What do other mountaineers enjoy most about the routes in La Motte-En-Champsaur?
The routes in La Motte-En-Champsaur are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Mountaineers often praise the dramatic mountain scenery, the diverse landscapes within the Écrins National Park, and the varied terrain that offers options for all ability levels.
Are there opportunities for other outdoor activities besides mountaineering?
Absolutely. The region is a hub for outdoor pursuits. During winter, the Valgaudemar and Champoléon valleys are popular for ice climbing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. In warmer months, you can also find options for rock climbing, via ferrata, mountain biking, canyoning, and white water rafting.
Can I find routes that offer views of prominent peaks?
Yes, many routes provide stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks. The Vieux Chaillol loop from Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol, for instance, offers panoramic views of the high peaks of the Écrins massif, including Vieux Chaillol itself, which stands at 3,163 meters.
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