Allos Lakes Loop

The most common starting point for the Mont Pelat hike is the Laus car park, which provides access towards Lac d'Allos. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.

As this trail is located within the Mercantour National Park, dogs are generally not permitted, even on a leash, to protect the park's fragile ecosystem and wildlife. It's always best to check the latest regulations directly with the park authorities before your visit.

The best time to hike Mont Pelat is typically from late June to early October, when the snow has melted and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.

There are no specific entrance fees to access Mercantour National Park itself. However, certain areas, like the access road to Lac d'Allos, may have restricted vehicle access or require a small fee during peak season to manage traffic and protect the environment. It's recommended to check local regulations before your trip.

This hike is considered difficult and demanding, requiring good to very good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes. While the 'normal route' doesn't involve technical climbing, it includes a significant ascent of around 900 meters over 12-13 kilometers, with sections of rocky and potentially airy terrain near the summit. Alpine experience is recommended.

The terrain is quite varied, starting with paths through forests and alpine meadows, transitioning to wide tracks, and then narrower trails that wind up gullied slopes and screes. At higher altitudes, the landscape becomes more mineral, almost lunar. You'll encounter a mix of grassy slopes and rocky sections, especially closer to the summit.

The trail offers stunning alpine scenery. Key highlights include Lake Allos, Europe's largest natural high-altitude lake, and Lac du Trou de l'Aigle. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable 360-degree view of Lake Allos from Mont Pelat and panoramic vistas over the Mercantour National Park and surrounding Alps.

The Mercantour National Park is rich in biodiversity. Hikers often have the chance to spot local wildlife such as marmots, chamois, ibex, and mountain hares. The diverse alpine environment also supports a variety of unique flora.

Given the trail's difficulty and alpine environment, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, appropriate layers of clothing for varying weather conditions, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), sufficient water, high-energy snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, and a first-aid kit. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the ascents and descents.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other trails. Approximately 34% of the route follows the Tour de l'Ubaye (variante), and about 5% coincides with the Col de l'Encombrette trail.

Mont Pelat is notable for being one of the most accessible 3,000-meter peaks in the Southern Alps, offering a high-altitude experience without requiring technical climbing skills. Its summit provides spectacular 360-degree panoramic views, and the trail offers a complete immersion in the diverse alpine environment of Mercantour National Park, often passing by the stunning Lac d'Allos.