The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Réserve naturelle du versant Nord des pics de Combeynot

The Réserve naturelle du versant Nord des pics de Combeynot offers a wide variety of hiking trails, with over 60 routes in total. Among these, you'll find more than 20 easy trails perfect for families, ensuring there's something suitable for all ages and abilities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the spectacular alpine landscapes, the diverse ecosystems, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring with family a joy. Many appreciate the stunning views from passes like Col du Lautaret and the tranquility of the high-mountain environment.

Yes, there are several easy circular walks. A great option is the Parking at Col du Lautaret – Belvedere loop from Col du Lautaret. This trail is approximately 5.7 km long and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, offering beautiful views from the Col du Lautaret area without significant elevation gain, making it ideal for families.

Many trails offer breathtaking views. The View Over the Gorges de la Romanche is a spectacular highlight. Additionally, the Col du Laurichard offers fantastic, slightly dizzying views, and the Col du Lautaret itself is a key access point with stunning vistas and rich floral diversity.

While many family-friendly trails offer views of the alpine landscape, the region is known for its glacial features. The tranquil Lac de Combeynot, a high-altitude glacial lake, is a significant natural feature, though reaching it typically involves more challenging routes. The Guisane River also carves its way through the terrain, originating from the Col du Lautaret, and can be appreciated from various points along the trails.

The best time for family hiking is generally during the summer months, from late June to early September. During this period, the snow has largely melted from the lower and mid-altitude trails, the weather is more stable, and the alpine meadows are in full bloom. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, as high-mountain weather can change rapidly.

The Parking at Col du Lautaret is a key access point for many trails, including several family-friendly options. It offers convenient access to routes that explore the alpine scenery around the pass. Always arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.

For families looking for a bit more of a challenge than the shortest loops, the Belvedere – Torrent loop from Col du Lautaret is a good option. It's about 11.3 km long with moderate elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for families with older children or those used to longer walks, showcasing more of the diverse terrain.

You'll encounter a rich variety of natural environments. The trails pass through alpine meadows and pastures, rocky slopes, and areas with rhododendron and bilberry moors. Near the base of the slopes and around the Guisane's springs, you might also find humid meadows. The Col du Lautaret area, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional floral diversity.

While many high-mountain routes are challenging, some trails provide a taste of the high-alpine environment with manageable difficulty. The area around Col du Lautaret offers stunning views and a high-altitude feel. For a slightly more extended experience, consider routes that stay below the most challenging peaks but still immerse you in the rugged beauty of the Ecrins National Park.

Given the alpine environment, it's essential to be prepared. We recommend wearing layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, as weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking boots are crucial, and don't forget sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Even on easy trails, conditions can be variable.