l'Arche

L'Arche is a 2,256-metre summit rising above the commune of Ancelle in the Hautes-Alpes department, on the edge of the Champsaur valley in the French Alps. It is one of the classic hiking destinations in this part of the Dauphiné region, popular with visitors looking for a scenic yet demanding route that doesn't require venturing into the high glaciated terrain of the nearby Ecrins massif.

How do you get to L'Arche?

The starting point is the village and ski resort of Ancelle, from where a waymarked loop trail begins. The route covers roughly 13.2 km and opens with a gentle climb through forested terrain. Along the way, hikers pass the hamlet of Moissière and continue at the foot of the neighbouring Aiguille peak (locally known as l'Aiguille d'Ancelle), which is linked to L'Arche by a small col. The descent follows a different path — through woodland, alongside the Ancelle torrent — so walkers avoid retracing the same ground twice.

The full outing takes about 5 hours 35 minutes on average and is rated as a difficult hike, calling for solid fitness and proper trekking footwear. It is not a beginner's stroll, though no climbing gear or mountaineering experience is required.

What will you see at the top?

The reward for the climb is a wide panorama that opens up as the trail leaves the tree line behind. Vegetation thins out, giving way to alpine meadows and rocky slopes. From the summit, views stretch across Lac de Serre-Ponçon — one of France's largest man-made lakes — and over the Gapençais basin surrounding the town of Gap. On a clear day, the distant Mont Ventoux massif in Provence is even visible on the horizon. L'Arche overlooks the Col de Moissière and is regarded as the first major peak of the Piolit mountain chain, making it a natural viewpoint over the entire Champsaur valley.

When is the best time to visit?

The recommended hiking season runs from March to October; outside this window, the upper sections of the trail can be snow-covered or icy, making the climb considerably harder. In spring and early summer, the slopes are covered in flowering alpine vegetation, adding to the scenic appeal of the route. In summer, it's best to set out early in the morning to avoid the heat on the exposed sections above the tree line.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the L'Arche summit? L'Arche stands at 2,256 metres above sea level and is part of the Piolit mountain chain in the Hautes-Alpes.

Where's the best place to start the hike? The most convenient starting point is the village of Ancelle, from which a waymarked loop trail of about 13.2 km begins.

How long does the round trip take? The full loop takes about 5 hours and 35 minutes on average and is classified as difficult, so it's worth setting out with enough daylight and time in reserve.

Is this hike suitable for beginners? It's not recommended for hikers without mountain trekking experience — it requires good fitness and sturdy footwear, though no climbing equipment is needed. Children and inexperienced walkers may struggle to complete the full loop in a single day.