In the heart of the Ecrins National Park, Lac de la Muzelle is a glacial lake, created by the melting of the surrounding glaciers. It lies at the foot of the Muzelle rock, at an altitude of over 2100 meters in the high mountains. Its fresh waters cover almost 10 hectares and reach a maximum depth of 18 metres. The surface of the lake can be frozen for up to 8 months of the year. Lac de la Muzelle is a popular hiking destination, known for the footpaths that take hikers to and from the lake, and for the beautiful, well-marked trails within the nature park that invite you to take a stroll.
Its banks are home to a refuge and a bivouac area. From June onwards, the watershed is home to a herd of guarded sheep. At the refuge, hikers are served hot and cold drinks to comfort them after the climb, as well as large salads, soups, quiches, pies and omelettes. Blueberry tart is an unmissable dessert. Service takes place in the dining room or on the terrace, with sublime views of the lake, valleys and peaks of the surrounding mountains. A dormitory is available upstairs. The Muzelle site is prized for its beauty: the lake with its ever-changing colors, from the brightest turquoise to the deepest black, is surrounded by the majestic peaks of Clapier du Peyron, Muraillette and Muzelle. Pastures, névés and rocky screes form a contrasting backdrop to the water on the massifs.
Hikingat Lac de la Muzelle
Refuge and nature
The Lac de la Muzelle hike is not long: the climb is less than 6 km from the hamlet of Alleau in Venosc. On the other hand, the difference in altitude is very significant, so you’ll need to plan a good day’s walk to get there and back, and why not bring your poles (trail enthusiasts will already have thought of this). Allow 6 hours to get to the refuge and back down. The hiking trail up to La Muzelle follows the GR 54 (other itineraries are also possible). In summer, leaving early avoids climbing in the heat. If you’re hiking with small children, baby carriers can be hired from the tourist office in the village of Venosc. Don’t forget to make a reservation to eat at the refuge, or to spend the night there if you’ve started the climb too late to be able to descend during the day. Disposable sheet kits are sold on site if required. From mid-June to early October, the refuge is manned every day. 68 berths are available. Lac de la Muzelle is located in the protected Écrins National Park: the environment is fragile, so dogs are not allowed on the trails. As with all hikes, pack a backpack with water, snacks and clothing appropriate to the weather conditions.
Hiking trails are marked for easy strolling. Follow the beacons between two slopes on rocks or trees for compass-free walks in the great outdoors. As a reminder, the markers are the property of the French Hiking Federation. Take advantage of your crossing of the massif to admire the flora and fauna, take a break at a lookout point or rest in one of the refuges for long-distance hikers who spend several days walking, or simply to experience the mountain at least once.