Lac de la Muzelle

Lac de la Muzelle is a glacial lake sitting at roughly 2,105 metres above sea level inside the Écrins National Park, in the Vénéon valley, within the commune of Vénosc close to Les Deux Alpes (Isère, France). Its turquoise water covers around 9 hectares and reaches a depth of about 18 metres, lying directly beneath the sheer north face of the Roche de la Muzelle (3,465 m), whose small glacier still feeds the lake with meltwater. The surrounding area has carried natural-site protection since 1941, well before the national park itself was created in 1973.

How do you get to the lake?

The hike begins in Bourg d'Arud, a hamlet in the Vénosc commune reachable by road from Les Deux Alpes. From there the path climbs through forest and rocky steps, gaining roughly 1,200-1,260 metres over a round trip of about 13 km. Most walkers need six to seven hours there and back, and for nearly the whole distance the route overlaps with the GR54, the long-distance trail that circles the Écrins massif, known as the Tour de l'Oisans. There's no technical climbing involved, but the sustained elevation gain and rocky ground make this a serious full-day outing that calls for solid fitness and proper boots.

Is there somewhere to sleep by the lake?

Yes - right on the shore, at about 2,110 metres, stands the Refuge de la Muzelle, run by the French Alpine Club (FFCAM). It has 58 beds, and in summer, especially July and August, booking ahead is compulsory. The refuge is staffed daily from mid-June through the end of September, and on weekends from late May onward. It ranks among the most sought-after refuges in the whole Écrins range, thanks to both the setting and its position on the GR54.

What else is there to explore nearby?

Hikers looking to extend the day can continue past the refuge toward the Col de la Muzelle (2,613 m) - roughly two more hours of walking and another 500 metres of ascent, leading to a pass with views over the neighbouring valleys. Another option links Lac de la Muzelle to Lac Lauvitel via the Col du Vallon (2,531 m), closing a loop through the Vénéon valley. Views of the Roche de la Muzelle and the surrounding peaks accompany walkers along most of the trail.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best time to go? The trail is most accessible from June to September, once snow clears from the higher sections and the refuge is staffed every day.

Is the hike suitable for children? With a distance in the double digits of kilometres and over 1,000 metres of elevation gain, this is a demanding outing better suited to experienced, active families than to a first mountain hike.

Can you drive close to the lake? No - the road ends at Bourg d'Arud, and from there only a footpath continues.

Is swimming allowed in the lake? The water comes from glacial meltwater and stays very cold even in summer, which keeps most visitors from lingering in it, though a few do take a dip.