Lakes Loop Trail

The trail is situated at an altitude of approximately 2000 meters on the Plateau des Petites Rousses. It's easily accessible by gondola, for example, from Oz 3300s. You can typically find parking at the base of the gondola station.

While the trail is in a natural area, specific dog regulations can vary. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife and flora, especially in a listed natural site like the Plateau des Petites Rousses. Always check local signage upon arrival for the most current rules.

The best time to hike this trail is typically during the warmer months when the snow has melted, usually from late spring through early autumn. This allows you to fully enjoy the blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers. Always check weather conditions before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at 2000 meters altitude.

As the Plateau des Petites Rousses is a listed natural site within the Massif des Grandes Rousses, there are generally no specific hiking permits or entrance fees for the trail itself. However, you will need to purchase a ticket for the gondola if you choose to access the plateau that way. Always respect the natural environment by staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and taking all your litter with you.

Yes, this trail is considered family-friendly and suitable for occasional hikers. Its accessibility via cable car makes it an excellent option for those seeking a less strenuous high-altitude experience. While rated moderate, the paths are generally accessible, though some sections require sure-footedness.

The terrain is diverse, featuring accessible paths, glacier-polished rocks, wet meadows, open mountain pastures, and peat bogs. You'll also traverse areas with carpets of blueberry bushes. The path is primarily unpaved hiking trail, with minimal road sections, offering a true mountain experience.

The trail offers stunning subalpine scenery with panoramic views of mountain ranges like Belledonne, Taillefer, Grandes Rousses, and Écrins. You might spot fish, small amphibians, wild orchids, various alpine flowers, and potentially marmots and chamois. The banks of the lakes are often blooming with rhododendrons.

You'll circuit around five distinct lakes: Lac Besson, Lac Blanc, Lac Noir, Lac de la Faucille, and Lake Carrelet. Lac Noir is particularly renowned for its striking mirror effect, reflecting the sky and surrounding mountains, offering a memorable viewpoint.

The loop typically covers a distance of about 6.85 km to 7.26 km with an elevation gain of around 160 meters. It can generally be completed in approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the route overlaps with sections of several other official trails. You will find yourself on parts of the XC 11 Les Lacs and Boucle des Lacs trails for significant portions of your hike.

Since the trail is accessible via cable car from places like Oz 3300s, you'll find amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options in the nearby villages or ski resorts. These areas typically cater to hikers and tourists, offering various services.