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equipment
Girarde Trail
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.
Description
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.
Equipment
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Defibrillator
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Parking nearby
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Trail road
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Charging stations for electric vehicles
Additional welcome
1/ How is trail running time calculated?
Trail times are calculated on the basis of reference paces for a regular runner who practices running on average 1 or 2 times a week.
600m/h ascent in altitude
900m/h ascent on descent
9km/h on the flat
2/ Using GPX tracks
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.
Environments
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Close to a public transportation
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Forest location
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Near shuttle stop
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Mountain view
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Mountain location
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Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Rates
Free access.
Opening period
From 01/05 to 15/10 daily.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Additional opening
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Subject to favorable weather
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Subject to snow conditions
Spoken languages
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French
Location
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.
Animals
Pets allowed : Yes
Pets allowed with supplement : No
Pets allowed on leash only.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
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To guide you in the field, consult the "step-by-step" directional diagram provided in pdf.
