Lac de la Ponsonnière

Lac de la Ponsonnière is a mountain lake sitting at 2,565 m altitude in the Cerces-Thabor massif, within the commune of Le Monêtier-les-Bains in the Hautes-Alpes — on the French side of the Serre Chevalier valley. It's a popular day-hike destination, usually combined with the nearby Grand Lac and the Col de la Ponsonnière (2,613 m) just above it.

Where exactly is the lake?

Lac de la Ponsonnière lies in a side valley above Le Monêtier-les-Bains, in the Cerces-Thabor range that borders the Écrins massif — whose peaks are visible on the horizon from this area. The lake sits just below the pass of the same name, on the route running from Pont de l'Alpe toward the Savoie border.

How do you get to the lake?

The trailhead is the car park at Pont de l'Alpe (around 1,710 m), on the road toward Col du Lautaret. From there the path climbs past L'Alpe du Lauzet (1,840 m) and the area around Refuge du Clôt des Vaches, passing Grand Lac on the way before reaching Lac de la Ponsonnière and, further on, the pass itself.

The full loop covers roughly 12 km with about 950 m of elevation gain. Plan on around 5 hours total — roughly 3 hours up and 2 hours down.

How difficult is the trail?

The stretch to the lake itself is easy and clearly marked, manageable even for children used to mountain walking. The short section just below the pass is trickier — a slightly exposed passage that calls for more care, though it isn't technical climbing. The route is often recommended as an easier alternative to the demanding Grand Galibier approach, and it bypasses the toughest section of the classic Grand Lac trail.

The best window for this hike runs from July to October, once the trail is clear of snow.

What's the scenery like along the way?

Highlights include Grand Lac seen en route, the ridgeline of the Arêtes de la Bruyère, and — from the pass itself — a panorama opening toward Savoie. From the slopes above the lake, the Écrins massif is visible in the distance. The hillside the trail follows faces south, which means the snow tends to clear earlier here in spring and summer.

Who is this hike suited for?

This is a route for hikers with some experience of longer mountain ascents. The section up to the lake alone, without continuing to the pass, is gentler and works well for families with children already used to hiking in the mountains.

FAQ

How high is Lac de la Ponsonnière? The lake sits at 2,565 m altitude, with the neighboring Col de la Ponsonnière at 2,613 m.

Which mountain range is the lake in? It's in the Cerces-Thabor massif, in a side valley above Le Monêtier-les-Bains, in the Serre Chevalier area.

Where does the trail start? At the car park by Pont de l'Alpe, around 1,710 m, on the road up to Col du Lautaret.

How long does the hike take? The full loop over the pass takes about 5 hours, covering roughly 12 km and 950 m of elevation gain.

Is the trail suitable for children? The section up to the lake is easy and fine for children already accustomed to mountain hiking. The climb to the pass includes a short, slightly exposed passage that needs extra care.

When is the best time to go? Between July and October, once the trail has cleared of snow and no winter gear is needed.