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Lake of the Cows – Col de la Vanoise Refuge loop from Aiguille de la Vanoise

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Hiking trails & Routes

Lake of the Cows – Col de la Vanoise Refuge loop from Aiguille de la Vanoise

Hard

4.8

(30)

304

hikers

Lake of the Cows – Col de la Vanoise Refuge loop from Aiguille de la Vanoise

05:55

13.5km

930m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Last updated: April 16, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that may be dangerous

A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

After 10.1 km for 218 m

Waypoints

Start point

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5.65 km

Lac des Vaches

Highlight • Lake

A pretty mountain lake, which can still be completely frozen in June. Bivouac prohibited!

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5.94 km

Lake of the Cows

Highlight • Lake

It is a very beautiful lake surrounded by peaks, located at 2,318 meters above sea level. A nice path in flat stones allows you to cross it.

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7.08 km

Long Lake

Highlight • Lake

It is a very pretty alpine lake, surrounded by glaciers.

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7.95 km

The Vanoise Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

The Col de la Vanoise is located at an altitude of 2,516 meters. It is a magnificent passage, where we are surrounded by imposing peaks.

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8.13 km

The Col de la Vanoise refuge is located at an altitude of 2,518 meters and offers a spectacular view of the Grande Casse. The setting is amazing! It is possible to eat there and spend the night there. The atmosphere is warm and the food delicious. Since 2021, it is also possible to bivouac at the refuge for €5 (which also gives access to a kitchen, the common room, toilets and showers).

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8.73 km

Lake des Assiettes

Highlight • Other

Mountain lake located at 2,517 meters above sea level, near the Col de la Vanoise. This lake is often dry in summer and populated by marmots.

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10.8 km

Ruisseau de l'Arcelin

Highlight • Other

The path through the valley of the Arcelin stream is an alternative to the GR 55 and allows a circuit around the Aiguilles de la Vanoise, recommended for the descent. Good surefootedness is recommended because of some rock bands, sometimes you need your hands. In the lower part, it is advisable to dodge the Col du Moriond in the afternoon because the creek can swell considerably with meltwater and short passages close to the creek can be tricky. In midsummer, however, the creek can also run dry. So: Open your eyes and decide for yourself.

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13.5 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.20 km

3.90 km

1.38 km

Surfaces

7.50 km

4.59 km

1.38 km

< 100 m

Elevation

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Weather

Sunday 10 May

3°C

-1°C

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Lake of the Cows – Col de la Vanoise Refuge loop from Aiguille de la Vanoise

Lac des Vaches

Lake of the Cows

Long Lake

The Vanoise Pass

Col de la Vanoise Refuge

Lake des Assiettes

Ruisseau de l'Arcelin

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