Located just above Lac Laramon, Lac du Serpent offers an incredible panorama of the Écrins mountain range, with the Massif des Cerces and the Queyrellin in the background... welcome to the heart of the Clarée valley.
From the Fontcouverte parking lot, take the footbridge opposite the Auberge de la Fruitière. The route starts just after the footbridge, indicated by the signs for Lac Laramon, Lac du Seprent and Refuge Ricou.
This wide, stony path, with its moderately steep, constant gradient, takes you straight up to the Ricou refuge.
After a first stop at the Ricou refuge, the surrounding panorama is already spectacular: the Cerces and Queyrellin massifs opposite give an impression of immensity.
Just above the refuge, leave the track and take the well-marked path on the right. This gradually twists and turns for 15 minutes or so until it comes to a crossroads where several itineraries meet: ignore the paths on either side and continue climbing straight ahead. The path quickly joins the torrent of Lac Laramon up to its spillway, where the full extent of the lake finally comes into view.
Perched at an altitude of 2359 metres, this jewel of the Hautes Alpes allows you to appreciate the full beauty of the valley, and behind the Queyrellin massif, part of the Dôme des Écrins begins to come into view.
Follow the path around to the left of the lake, which then rises steadily and steadily: count 100 metres of ascent over a distance of 700 metres to reach the Lac du Serpent.
Return by the same route.
It's possible to continue the ascent as far as Les Gardioles, a formation of small lakes perched on a vast flat area, making it an ideal place to bivouac and take full advantage of the starry nights. ( + 235 m ascent from Lac du Serpent ).
You can continue your ascent to the Pic du Lac Blanc, culminating at 2980 metres altitude (+500 metres ascent from Lac du Serpent).
Mountain location
Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Office de tourisme des Hautes Vallées - La Grave - La Clarée - L'Izoard - 24/11/2025
www.hautesvallees.com/la-grave/
Report a problem
From 01/05 to 31/10 daily.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Phone : 04 92 20 02 20
Email : claree@hautesvallees.com
Website : https://www.hautesvallees.com/la-claree/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ClareeTourisme
This hike, which is very popular in summer, leads to degradation of the vegetation along the trail. Please stay on the main route.
Above the Ricou refuge, please keep your dogs on a leash (many marmots).
Yes. Pets are welcome, but we strongly advise you to keep your dogs on a leash (presence of herds and wildlife).