Col de l'Izoard

In winter, the Col de l'Izoard road is transformed into a groomed trail for cross-country skiers and walkers. Take the opportunity to discover this mythical pass on this easy snowshoe hike.

Description

The Col de l'Izoard is one of the must-do snowshoe hikes in the Briançonnais. With family or friends, it's an easy hike with one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Queyras. Ideal on full-moon evenings, to enjoy the nocturnal ambience of the snow-covered forests, it's also an opportunity to discover the unmissable Refuge Napoléon, built in 1858.

Detailed route :

1. From the parking lot, head up towards and through the hamlet of Le Laus.

2. Pass the Auberge de l'Arpelin. Then, as you leave the hamlet, put on your snowshoes and begin the 8-kilometer ascent of the pass on the groomed trail.

3. As you ascend, enjoy the view of the Pic du Grand Rochebrune, the summit of l'Arpelin and the Grand Peygu.

4. Once you've reached Refuge Napoléon, continue for a further 1 km to reach the pass.

5. Return by the same route

Additional welcome

There is a cross-country ski center in the village of Cervières, where you can rent cross-country skiing equipment (alternating and skating), snowshoes, sealskins for cross-country skiing and sledges.

Environments

• Mountain view
• Mountain location
• Village 2 km away
• Panoramic view

Rates

The trail is groomed and chargeable (€2) from the opening of the Cervières Nordic ski area to the end of February (variable depending on snow conditions).
Outside this period, the piste is ungroomed and free.

Itinerary

• Distance 16km
• Route type Round trip
• Elevation gain 708m
• Negative gradient 708m
• Daily duration 04h00
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Nature du terrain Groomed trail
• Maximum altitude 2364m

Location