Hike to the larches of Balavaux
Overview
Intro
This hike from the Tracouet mountain station to Haute-Nendaz leads to the largest and oldest larches in Europe. Further highlights include the gondola ride with its beautiful panoramic views, the Lac Noir (Black Lake) mountain lake, the wonderful forest paths and the Bisse de Saxon irrigation channel, the longest in Valais.
Description
From the upper station of the Tracouet gondola above Haute-Nendaz, you first descend to the Lac Noir mountain lake and then towards the Cabane Balavaux hut. The trail continues over an Alpine meadow where you will find the imposing larches. There are more than 250 larch trees here that are between 300 and 1,000 years old. A special wooden walkway has been constructed to allow visitors to marvel at the “King of Balavaux” up close. With a circumference of 11.8m, this evergreen is known as the mightiest larch in Europe.
After this impressive encounter, the hiking trail continues to the Chalet des Alpes restaurant. A narrow path then leads to the Bisse de Saxon, the longest in Valais. Passing through the forest, it continues to the Pra da Dzeu clearing, an idyllic place that enchants hikers with its peaceful atmosphere and magnificent views. The trail then leads back to Haute-Nendaz, taking in the Gouille d’Ouché pond and the pretty mountain chapel at Les Rairettes.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Dent de Nendaz – Tracouet
|
|---|---|
| Destination |
Nendaz
|
| Direction |
One way
|
| Altitude (meter above sea level) |
2197 m
|
| Ascent |
87 m
|
| Descent |
958 m
|
| Distance |
11 km
|
| Duration |
2 h 53 min
|
| Season |
June - October
|
| Elevation profile |
87Meter ascents 958Meter descents Show elevation profile |
| Theme |
Alongside the water, Onto an alp, With panoramic views
|
| Category |
Hiking, Nature
|
Nendaz Tourisme
Rte de la Télécabine 1
1997
Haute-Nendaz
Switzerland
