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Girarde footpath
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Description
On a shaded north-facing slope, embark on a journey to meet the prehistoric
humans. From Chemin du Petit Bonheur to the Neolithic cave, this hike
lays out a wide array of unexpected treasures for you.
On the tranquil left bank of the Arc river, you proudly strike out on Chemin du Petit Bonheur. One of the top attractions of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, this trail makes for a pleasant excursion in all kinds of ways. Today, it takes you to the Muleney lakes where the Caribbean-blue waters are a source of eternal fascination for hikers.
And what's that cave you can see as you stop for a rest at the Balmes lookout point? A secret cave that once served as a sheepfold for our Neolithic ancestors. What was life like in those days? In the blink of an eye, you are transported thousands of years back to the "New Age" of the Stone Age, when livestock farming emerged in our mountains.
If you're lucky enough to explore this trail in spring, an extra treasure awaits you with each snowmelt. Enjoy the privilege of a visit to the Merderel waterfall, which dries up as soon as summer rears its head.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Date and time
- From 01/05/2026 to 15/10/2026
Additional information
Open period
From 01/05 to 15/10.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Updated by
Communauté de communes Haute Maurienne Vanoise - 24/11/2025
www.cchautemaurienne.com
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Environments
Forest location
Near shuttle stop
Mountain view
Mountain location
Close to a public transportation
Village centre
Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Contact
Phone : 04 79 05 99 06
Email : info@hautemaurienne.com
Website :
https://www.haute-maurienne-vanoise.com
http://www.cchautemaurienne.com/jy-vais-en
Type of land
Stone
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Location complements
By bus: Line S52 or S53 - Maison de la Vanoise stop.
By car: park in the parking lot next to the Maison de la Vanoise or at the foot of the ski slopes.
Topo guides and map references
Topo guides references :
Map and booklet "Haute Maurienne Vanoise. 115 walks and hikes - 35 trail routes. For all levels" (sold for €10 in Tourist Offices) - Itinéraire bleu n°43
Map references :
Map IGN 3633ET - Tignes Val-d'Isère
Map IGN 3634OT - Val Cenis
Reception complements
The duration of hiking trails is calculated using reference paces: 300 m/h ascent, 500 m/h descent and 4 km/h on the flat.
As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are given for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
To guide you in the field, consult the "step-by-step" directional diagram provided in pdf.
Animals
Yes. Pets allowed on leash only.
Data author
