Le Grand Perron des Encombres - hiking trail

Go on a discovery alipne ibex on a pleasant path, with at the top, an exceptional panorama on the Ecrins national park to Mont Blanc.

The path climbs rapidly towards the ridge. At this altitude, there are no trees left. The vegetation is sparser but no less rich. Just look around. Perhaps you'll find the mythical Edelweiss... a treasure found only in the mountains.

Keep your eyes peeled for ibex, those rock acrobats with their impressive horns. Some of them are not shy and can easily be photographed: a nice souvenir to show back home.

When you reach the ridge, the peaks are all around you: what a sight! Continue on through this landscape, between grass and rock, and you'll recognize the Grand Perron, topped by a cross.

An orientation table awaits you to help you put a name to the multitude of peaks you can see: the Ecrins, the Vanoise glaciers and all the way to Mont-Blanc!

And while you're there, look up: sometimes a lammergeier is circling in the sky...

Follow the yellow signs.

Carte 1 : IGN TOP25 3433
Carte 2 : IGN TOP25 3435
Topo-Guide and carto-guide available from the Maurienne Galibier tourist office.

Start: Saussaz parking lot
1/ Follow the path on the left towards "Lèchepre".
2/ At the intersection, take the path on the right that climbs to the "Petit Col des Encombres".
3/ Follow the left-hand path marked by a clear path to the summit.
4/ Take the same route back down to the "Petit Col des Encombres".
5/ Take the same route back down, or continue along the ridge to the "Col des Encombres".
6/ From here, take the path on the right which joins the track and takes you back to the starting point.