Pont Baldy

Pont Baldy is a dam and reservoir tucked into the narrow Cerveyrette valley, a short distance from the center of Briançon in the Hautes-Alpes. The concrete arch dam was completed in 1966, stands 56 m high and 91.5 m long, and holds back nearly one million cubic meters of water across a lake of roughly 5 hectares. The water's striking turquoise tint comes from sediment carried down by the Cerveyrette, and that color is the main reason photographers and day-trippers make their way to the shoreline.

How do you get to Pont Baldy?

The walk starts in Briançon itself. The trail climbs through forest along the valley, with a few steep stretches, and opens up repeated views down onto the dam and lake as you gain height. The full loop around the reservoir runs about 7 km with roughly 335 m of elevation gain — a moderate outing by alpine standards. Hikers wanting a longer day can extend the route toward the forts above Briançon, a variant that stretches to around 18.5 km with over 900 m of climbing.

What will you see at the lake?

The reservoir sits below two forts belonging to Briançon's Vauban-designed fortification system: Fort du Randouillet, perched at 1,604 m, and Fort de la Croix de Bretagne. Their walls, visible from the shore, add a layer of history to the walk — you get an alpine lake alongside a view of the old defenses that once guarded the approach to the town. Seen from above, the dam itself gives a sense of the scale of the hydropower engineering built here in the 1960s; it still generates electricity today.

When is the best time to visit?

The loop is walkable roughly from March or April through October, once the trail clears of snow and temperatures make for comfortable hiking. The lake's turquoise color is most vivid in summer, which is when it photographs best. Spring and autumn bring fewer crowds while the valley views remain just as rewarding.

Who is this route suited for?

The loop suits most hikers with average fitness — no technical gear is needed, though sturdy footwear helps on the uneven forest paths. Families with children can stick to the shorter stretch nearer the dam, while more determined walkers can push on toward the forts.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the walk around Lac de Pont Baldy take? The full loop, about 7 km, typically takes 3–4 hours depending on pace and photo stops.

Is the trail suitable for kids? The section closest to the dam is easy and family-friendly; the complete loop with its climbs calls for a bit more stamina.

Can you swim at the reservoir? The lake primarily serves hydropower and water-management purposes, so swimming isn't a typical activity here — check posted signage on site.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Pair the visit with the Randouillet and Croix de Bretagne forts, part of Briançon's larger Vauban fortification system listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.