What are good hiking practices?

Hiking is synonymous with reconnecting with nature, peace and contemplation. To ensure that everyone has the same experience and that everyone gets on well together, here are a few rules: Close the enclosure fences, Stay on the marked path to avoid damaging the mountain and trampling the fragile flora, Keep your dog on a lead so as not to disturb the grazing herds, Pick up your rubbish, even organic waste, Respect environments such as high-altitude lakes by avoiding swimming in them.

What markings should I use when hiking?

Most of the time, there are signs indicating the main directions of the footpaths. You then need to follow the markings. White and red or yellow and red markings: designate the Grandes Randonnées (GR) trails, which generally last several days; Yellow marking: designates walking and hiking routes lasting one day or less. These markings indicate when you are on the right path (one or two horizontal bars), when to turn right or left (right angle pointing in the direction and horizontal bar) or when this is not the path to take (cross). The explore Maurienne app lets you follow a mapped route. A trail ready in your pocket! Download it now: on the App Store or Google Play .

Where can I park when I go hiking?

Usually, there is a car park nearby at the start of a hiking trail. Don’t hesitate to contact the tourist offices to find out more about parking at trailheads. Roadsides and fields are not provided for this purpose, so please respect these areas.

Is it possible to bivouac on all hiking routes?

In the Maurienne, you can bivouac in designated areas. There are Natura 2000 areas and nature reserves in the region, so bivouacking is regulated.

Top 10 walks

Looking for some of the most beautiful scenery in the Maurienne? Want to reconnect with nature? Here are our hiking recommendations for successful outings!
Authentic feedback on your experiences to help you choose and prepare for your next hike in the Maurienne.

Tranquillity and breathtaking viewsLac Noir circuit

Reach the Lac Noir, a peaceful spot not far from Aiguebelle.

Stone and total immersionLake and Col de la Croix

From the Col du Glandon, take on the lake and the Col de la Croix: an alpine hike that combines effort and reward, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Lake and rocky landscapesBalmettes lake

At Lac des Balmettes, time slows down. A natural setting in Saint-Colomban-des-Villards, perfect for recharging your batteries in front of the mountains.

Waterfall and undergrowthSentier des Droux

Leaving from Epierre, this is a refreshing walk that blends in with the heritage.

Marmots and exceptional sceneryThe Basse du Gerbier at the foot of the Aiguilles d'Arves

In the Alps, at the foot of the Aiguilles d'Arves: the Basse du Gerbier. A hike as close as possible to the three beauties.

Heritage and accessibilityLes Hauts de Saint-Jean

This is THE walk that is accessible from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne without a car.

Calm and rejuvenatingLe Carrelet

Departing from the Col du Glandon, the Carrelet trail offers a high altitude hike between mountain pastures and panoramic views, culminating in a breathtaking view of the...

Varied terrain and 360° views over the valleyHiking at Le Grand Coin

A challenging hike, it offers uninterrupted views of the Maurienne AND Tarentaise valleys.

Panorama and small lakeLes 3 Croix and l’Alpettaz

Set between forest and mountain pastures, this hike combines 360° views with a peaceful little lake.

ExploreMaurienne Outdoor mobile application

Explore Maurienne is the application to help you explore the Maurienne region. In winter, you’ll find snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ski touring and downhill ski resorts, as well as weather alerts (avalanche risk). And all year round, your hiking, cycling, trail and via ferrata routes, as well as swimming and fishing spots, invite you to experience the Maurienne at any time of year.

200 signposted itineraries
11 outdoor activities
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