Tête des Pras Arnaud

Tête des Pras Arnaud is a 2,617-metre summit rising above the commune of Montmaur in the Dévoluy massif, part of the Dauphiné Alps. Regarded as one of the three main peaks of the range, it borders the Plateau de Bure to the southwest — a high plateau known for hosting the IRAM radio astronomy observatory.

How do you get there?

The approach starts from Veynes or Gap, heading toward Superdévoluy and then taking the D320 road to Montmaur. From there, the D320 winds up in switchbacks to the hamlet of La Montagne, followed by a forest road toward Les Sauvas, where the road ends at a shaded parking area — a convenient trailhead for hikers.

What will you see along the way?

From the parking area, the GR94B trail leads to the Fontaine du Vallon spring at 1,806 m, which flows abundantly year-round and serves as both a landmark and a good spot to refill water bottles. Beyond the spring, the marked trail ends and an off-trail route begins, climbing a further 800 metres of elevation to the summit.

The defining and most demanding section of the ascent is the Pas de Paul — a steep rock corridor fitted with the oversized, irregular carved steps typical of the Dévoluy massif, often described as stairs built for giants. This passage alone accounts for around 360 metres of elevation gain over highly exposed terrain.

Total elevation gain from the parking area to the summit is roughly 1,200–1,300 metres. Timing is approximately 2 hours for the approach to the Pas de Paul, 1 to 2 hours to climb through the corridor itself, and around 2.5 hours for the descent.

From the top, the view opens onto the distinctive radio telescope dishes of the IRAM observatory on the Plateau de Bure, with the peaks of the Écrins massif visible in the distance.

Is this hike for everyone?

Not really. The Pas de Paul demands solid fitness, confidence on exposed ground, and no fear of heights. The route is strongly discouraged for inexperienced hikers, children, and anyone bringing a dog — the terrain can be slippery, and exposure within the corridor is considerable.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer is the most favourable season, when the trail and the Pas de Paul corridor are free of snow and ice, making the rock steps far safer to negotiate. Spring and autumn conditions can vary more, so checking current trail conditions before setting out is recommended.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Tête des Pras Arnaud? The summit stands at 2,617 metres and ranks among the three main peaks of the Dévoluy massif.

Where's the best place to start the hike? The trailhead is the parking area at the end of the forest road near Les Sauvas, reached via Montmaur and the hamlet of La Montagne.

What exactly is the Pas de Paul? It's a steep rock corridor fitted with large, irregular carved steps, covering about 360 metres of elevation gain — the most demanding and distinctive part of the climb.

How long does the whole hike take? Roughly 2 hours for the approach, 1 to 2 hours through the Pas de Paul, and about 2.5 hours for the descent, depending on fitness and conditions.