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Lac des Vaches (Cow Lake)
Description
This fun hike to enjoy as a family takes you to the foot of the mighty Grande Casse, the highest peak in the Vanoise Range. From the lake, it takes 45 minutes to walk to the Col de la Vanoise Hut and the area’s other mountain lakes.
For this relatively easy hike, you can use the aerial tram or Genépi Chairlift in summer to take you to a higher starting point. It takes approximately one hour to hike to the lake from the Les Barmettes hut, which is located right at the boundary of Vanoise National Park.
You will be walking along what was formerly referred to as “Salt Road,” and will also see many marmots all along the way.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Additional information
Updated by
Office de Tourisme de Pralognan-la-Vanoise - 18/08/2025
www.pralognan.com/
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Price(s)
Free of charge.
Open period
From 01/01 to 31/12. Ease of access depends on snow conditions. Make sure that you bring the right gear.
Contact
Phone : 04 79 08 79 08
Website : http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Col_de_la_Vanoise
Tips
When with kids during the summer, the aerial tram or Genépi chairlift shorten the hike by taking you to the Les Barmettes Hut.
Reception complements
At the Les Barmettes Hut, located along the trail, you can quench your thirst or enjoy a meal.
IGN cards
Animals
No
