In this guide
Why go as far as Lac Noir?
Lac Noir has a different feel from Lac Besson. More enclosed and fringed with rocks, it owes its name (“Black Lake”) to the dark shades its water sometimes takes on as the mountains and sky reflect in it. The contrast between alpine meadows, rocky walls and deep water makes it a beautiful destination for a walk.
It fits naturally into the lakes trail, which Alpe d'Huez presents as a high-altitude route that almost anyone can enjoy. Each lake has its own atmosphere: Lac Besson is ideal for a family break, while Lac Noir feels quieter and wilder.
How to get to Lac Noir
From Lac Besson
The easiest way is to head to the Lac Besson area first, then follow the lakes trail waymarks. The official walking map describes a family route via Lac Besson, Lac Noir, Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet.
From Lac Besson the route is generally easy-going, with a few stonier sections and a short descent to Lac Noir. The ground can be wet or slippery after rain.
From the resort
You can set off on foot from Alpe d'Huez, but the distance and climb are greater. Alternatively, take whichever summer lifts are open up to the Grandes Rousses area, then continue on foot.
Recommended route from Lac Besson
Take the summer shuttle, an open lift or a walking route that suits your level.
Follow the signs to Lac Noir and keep off the mountain bike trails.
Lac Noir sits slightly below the Lac Besson plateau. Take care on the stones.
The banks can be wet and fragile. Stay on the main trail.
Return to Lac Besson or carry on to Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet if your group and the weather allow.
Which loops can you do?
| Route | Level | Approx. time | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lac Besson → Lac Noir → return | Easy | Around 1 h to 1 h 30 depending on start | Short and photogenic |
| Lac Besson and the Alpette plateau | Moderate | Around 2 h, 5.9 km and 147 m of ascent | Besson, Noir and panoramic views |
| Lakes circuit | Easy to moderate | Around 2 h to 2 h 30 depending on route | Several lakes in one outing |
| Long lakes loop | Moderate | Varies | The full plateau experience |
Lac Noir with children
The walk is family-friendly if you start from Lac Besson or from a nearby lift station. For young children, reaching Lac Noir is often enough – there's no need to add more lakes if they start to tire.
- Give children shoes with good grip.
- Bring a windproof jacket, even on sunny days.
- Stay close to them by the water and on rocky sections.
- Take a break before heading back.
- Avoid standard pushchairs on the narrow, stony stretches.
Swimming, dogs and protecting the site
Swimming is not allowed
Swimming is prohibited in all the lakes within the municipality of Alpe d'Huez. The rule protects these high-altitude aquatic habitats and reduces risks for visitors.
Dogs and livestock
Dogs should be kept on a lead. You may pass through cattle enclosures or come across herds protected by guardian dogs. Close gates behind you, walk around the animals and never run towards the guardian dogs.
Respect the wetlands
The lake shores and peat bogs are home to fragile plant life. Stay on the paths, don't pick plants and take all your rubbish home. The reflections often look best from viewpoints slightly above the lake rather than right at the water's edge.
Photography tips
Lac Noir really lives up to its name when the water is still and the rock walls are mirrored on its surface. Mornings often bring smoother water and softer contrasts. A little height above the lake lets you frame the Belledonne range in the background.
Map of Lac Noir and the lakes plateau
Useful information