The practice of hiking sometimes offers routes that are veering off the ordinary. The Trou de l’argent is one of them! This athletic hike, classified as a vertigo hike, first crosses a cave and then runs through a cliff hanging path, leading you to the summit of the Baume, offering a panoramic view of Sisteron and the whole Durance valley.
The hike starts at the post of the Pont sur la Durance (450 m) the bridge on the Durance River. From the parking lot along the road, join the "cliff of the Baume" which is just above and marked. Follow the path going up to the right towards the Trou de l'Argent (Marking). The path slopes steeply upwards under the pines and leads to a crossroads on the hillside.
At the post "Montée de la grotte" (775 m), continue to climb to the left towards the summit. The climb is steep and runs among oaks and broom, to the foot of the cliff.
Arrived at trou de l’argent (silver hole), enter the cave using the cable and metal bars. Caution: this hike is only for experienced and well-equipped hikers. After the cave, go up along the cliff hanging path which is equipped with cables, up to the ridge. The summit of La Baume is on your right.
From the top of La Baume (1 147 m), return to the starting following the same path.
Think about public transport and carpooling: zou.maregionsud.fr
Warning: steep and vertiginous passages, not recommended for people prone to vertigo. Way equipped with cables to reach the summit. May be closed during Summer because of fire risk Not recommended for children. Provide a flashlight for crossing the cave, Trou de l'Argent (crawling on all fours is unavoidable).
Parking to the right of the Baume bridge, along the departmental road, Sisteron
From Sisteron (1 km), exit through the tunnel under the citadel and take the D951 road towards La Motte du Caire to reach the Baume bridge.
Pont sur la Durance, Sisteron
Pont sur la Durance, Sisteron