Hikes/France/Vanoise National Park

Vallon du Prariond

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
493 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.6
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Vallon du Prariond hiking trail in Vanoise

Vallon du Prariond may be the one of the shortest hikes on our list, but it is not any less impressive than the others. You will start the hike with an amazing view over the river into the rocks of the Gorge of Malpasset. It will lead you to a little green paradise in only one hour of hiking! From here, the view on the glacier is gorgeous and the Marmots are not shy.

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Route Description for Vallon du Prariond

This hike begins at the same place as the Col de la Lose, but cuts the distance and elevation in half while still maintaining the stunning views to make it a family friendly day out!

From the parking lot the hike to the Vallon du Prariond starts with a steep, but accessible trail above the Gorges du Malpasset. The L’Isère River is on your right as you go on the left-hand side of the gorge.

The gorge is impressive in its depth. The path is very good, however keep children close by and safe.

After 1.0 km you will discover the wonderful Vallon du Prariond, which is considered to be the secret kingdom of chamois, ibex and marmots! Keep your eyes peeled here.

Cross the two streams which separate you from the Refuge du Prariond. You can stop here on the way up, but we prefer to stop here on the way back, there is an a la carte menu available over lunchtime. On a sunny day a drink on one of the picnic tables is about as good as life can get!

Hike back the way you came.

Insider Hints for Vallon du Prariond

  • Take some time to enjoy the views and enjoy a bite to eat at the refuge.

Getting to the Vallon du Prariond Trailhead

Head to Val d’Isere and take the D902 East, passing the hamlet of Le Fornet. After Le Fornet the parking is 7.5 km along the D902, just before a bridge over the Isère River.

Route Information

  • When to do

    June - Fall

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Yes, close to refuge

  • Toilets

    Yes, at the refuge

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Vallon du Prariond Elevation Graph

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Vallon du Prariond Reviews

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