Lac de la Bayenna

Lac de la Bayenna is a small high-alpine lake in the municipality of Anniviers, in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits at 2,546 m in the Val de Moiry, a side valley of the Val d'Anniviers, right above the barren ground left behind by the retreating Moiry Glacier. It suits hikers who want a real mountain setting without an expedition-length climb.

Where is Lac de la Bayenna?

The lake lies west of Lac de Châteaupré, a little higher up the same valley. The terrain is stark: bare rock, scree and fresh ground uncovered by the glacier. Its coordinates are roughly 46.102 N, 7.573 E. The nearest village of any size is Grimentz.

How do you get to Lac de la Bayenna?

The usual approach starts at the Moiry dam. A bus runs from Grimentz and you get off at the Barrage stop. From there a mountain path leads to Lac de Châteaupré, which is served by public transport, and from Châteaupré it takes about 30 minutes on foot to reach Bayenna. The lake drains into the Gougra river after about 800 m, slightly downstream near Châteaupré.

Which trails pass the lake?

• Tour du Lac de Moiry (Chemin 2500) – a loop around the Moiry reservoir. The valais.ch listing gives about 13.4 km and just under five hours; other sources quote 14 km with roughly 840 m of ascent. The loop begins and ends at the dam crest.
• Col du Tsaté – the trail up to this 2,867 m pass into the Val d'Hérens also goes by the lake.
• Cabane de Moiry – a demanding full-day outing with around 1,850 m of climbing, forming part of a multi-day circuit.

When should you go?

At this altitude the paths are practical mainly in snow-free months, generally from late June to September. Check the forecast before setting out, since the upper sections are exposed and mountain weather turns quickly. Bring sturdy footwear, layers and water, as there are no refreshments at the lake.

What else is there nearby?

The Val de Moiry is known for its large dam and turquoise reservoir, and the higher ground gives views of the Moiry Glacier and the peaks around it. Grimentz offers old dark-timber chalets, accommodation and restaurants. Routes towards the Cabane de Moiry hut start from the same area.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive to Lac de la Bayenna? No. Road and bus access ends near the Moiry dam or at Châteaupré; the remaining distance is on foot along a mountain trail.

How long is the walk in? About half an hour from Lac de Châteaupré. A full outing from the dam takes longer, depending on the route you choose.

How high is the lake? 2,546 m above sea level, so it can be cool and windy even in summer.

Is the lake on a well-known loop? Yes, it lies along the Tour du Lac de Moiry (Chemin 2500) and on the trail to the Col du Tsaté.