Rosuel ~ waterfall trail

Nestled in a valley in the Alps, at the end of the road in the valley past the village of Peisey-Nancroix, is the Refuge de Rosuel. The parking lot there is pretty big, has a small lake with picnic tables, and access to bathrooms. Moreover, you can talk to someone at the refuge if you have questions about your hike, or to see maps of the area if you don’t have your own.

We did a gorgeous four-mile hike, from the refuge to a waterfall you can see from the parking lot, and on your way back down also.

This hike took us two hours and forty-five minutes, walking at a comfortable pace and taking several breaks for water and photos. The elevation change is 1,496ft.

To see the hike, click here.

Waterfall Trail

From the refuge, you’ll take a trail that goes to the tiny village of La Gurraz, where you’ll take a left to cross the river.

After the river, take a right and go up, following the yellow signs that say “Cascades”. The hike up is steep, and you’ll cross the river a couple of times. Depending on the water level, you might get wet.

Continue past the waterfall to the next intersection where you can see yellow signs, and there you can take a right to go back down towards the parking lot by crossing the bridge, and then heading down. It’s pretty straightforward on the way down. There is no shade up to this point.

While hiking down, you can see the waterfall and the trail that you followed on your way up, which I always liked. You’ll come across a wooden platform with a bench if you want to take a break or have a snack.

The trail is moderate: keep in mind the steep way to the waterfall (that’s the toughest section) and the water crossings.

If you’re looking for a place to have a lunch after this beautiful hike, check out Le Petit Hibou, a few minutes’ drive from the parking lot where the hike ends. It’s beautiful and delicious!