Alpine Passes Trail, Stage 38/43

This unofficial lower Valais "high route" leads from the Lac d'Emosson across two passes to the Lac de Salanfe, at an altitude of 1900 to 2500 metres. Along the way, water and rock, flowers and snow alternate in a varied succession.

From the Lac d’Emosson bus stop, the almost six-hour hike begins at Col de la Gueulaz. Near the small chapel of Notre-Dame-des-neiges, a broad hiking trail crosses open slopes with views of the Valais reservoir. After around three and a half kilometres, the path narrows. The mountain trail climbs steeply across broad pastures and increasingly rocky terrain.

At Col de Barberine, the route enters a barren high-alpine landscape. Shortly afterwards, it reaches its highest point at around 2,480 m, below Fontanabran. A long traverse at altitude follows, with constant ups and downs as far as Col d’Emaney. Open slopes and rocky sections dominate the scenery.

From the second pass, the mountain trail descends to Lac de Salanfe. The tour ends on the shore of the reservoir at Cabane de Salanfe. In total, the route covers 14 kilometres, with around 1,150 metres of both ascent and descent. The destination is not served by public transport; the nearest stop, Van-d’en-Haut, camping, is almost two kilometres away.