Grand Cheval de Bois and Col d'Allos Loop

This loop is rated as difficult. While the Col d'Allos area offers a range of mountain biking trails from easy to expert, combining it with the Grand Cheval de Bois, which is primarily a high-altitude hiking area within the Mercantour National Park, makes for a very challenging ride. Expect steep sections, technical terrain, and potentially some portage (carrying your bike) in higher, more rugged parts.

The estimated duration for this 54 km loop is around 5 hours and 55 minutes of riding time. However, given its difficult rating and significant elevation gain, you should plan for a full day, allowing for breaks, photo stops, and potential technical challenges.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll encounter good uphill sections on dirt roads, leading to beautiful singletrack downhills, especially around the Col d'Allos. Some parts can be steep and include drops. In the Grand Cheval de Bois section, expect rugged mountain paths and high-altitude features, which may require technical riding skills or even portage.

Yes, the loop offers exceptional mountain landscapes and panoramic views of the Mercantour National Park. You'll pass by the historic Pont du Fau and can enjoy a View of Cime de la Bonette. The descent through Besse du Prenier also offers great scenery.

The best time to ride this high-altitude loop is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the snow has usually melted, and the weather is more stable. Always check local weather conditions and trail status before you go, as mountain weather can change rapidly.

The Grand Cheval de Bois section of this loop is within the Mercantour National Park, which prioritizes ecosystem preservation. While mountain biking is generally permitted on designated trails and roads, some paths may be reserved for hiking only. Always stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and be aware of shared-use paths. There are no specific entrance fees for the park itself, but regulations regarding access and activities must be followed.

As a significant portion of this loop is within the Mercantour National Park, specific regulations apply to dogs. Generally, dogs are not permitted, even on a leash, in the central zone of the national park to protect wildlife. It's crucial to verify the exact rules for the specific sections of your route within the park boundaries before bringing your dog.

While the exact starting point for this custom loop isn't fixed, common access points for the Col d'Allos area include towns like Colmars or Allos. You can typically find parking in these villages. For a specific trailhead, it's best to consult your planned route on a detailed map to identify the most convenient parking options.

Given its location within the Mercantour National Park, you have a good chance of spotting various alpine wildlife. Keep an eye out for marmots, chamois, ibexes, and even vultures. You might also see sheep or cows grazing in the alpine pastures, especially around the Col d'Allos.

Yes, sections of this loop overlap with several other routes. You'll find yourself on parts of the Col d'Allos (2247 m ) depuis Barcelonnette, the Route des Grandes Alpes à vélo, étape 11, Barcelonnette / Valberg, and the TransVerdon. This indicates that you'll be sharing paths with other cyclists and potentially hikers on these well-established routes.