Hiking Lac des Neuf Couleurs - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in the Lac des Neuf Couleurs: trails, map and practical info

Hautes-Alpes • Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

4.9 Appreciated by 6 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
12 km
Elevation
1,661 ft
Duration
5h30
Max altitude
3,412 ft
Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Lac des Neuf Couleurs? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Désolé, nous n'avons pas de description pour cet endroit.

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Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Lac des Neuf Couleurs, 04530 Saint-Paul-sur-Ubaye, France
GPS coordinates
44.5397148, 6.8639153
Phone
Not available

When?

Opening hours
No information
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
44.5397148, 6.8639153
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.9
3 Reviews
NP
Nature Photographer
Feb 18, 2024
Perfect spot for capturing alpine photography with the lake's incredible color variations. The significant elevation gain of 850m makes this a serious mountain hike in the Hautes-Alpes region. Budget for access and parking fees, and respect the wildlife protection rules including the dog restriction.
AH
Alpine Hiker
Feb 3, 2024
Absolutely spectacular destination in the Hautes-Alpes! The 850m ascent is demanding but worth every step when you reach the famous nine-colored lake. Be prepared for entrance fees and plan accordingly as parking isn't free. The pristine alpine environment justifies the no-dogs policy.
ME
Mountain Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
The Lac des Neuf Couleurs offers a challenging hike with 850m elevation gain through the stunning Hautes-Alpes landscape. The trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the multi-colored lake. Note that parking and access require fees, and dogs aren't permitted on this protected route.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
1661.00 m
3412.00 m
5h30
No
No
No, this trail is rated as Hard difficulty with 850 m of elevation gain over 12 km, making it unsuitable for beginners or inexperienced hikers. You should have good fitness and mountain hiking experience before attempting this route.
The hike takes approximately 5h30 to complete the 12 km trail with 850 m of elevation gain. Actual time may vary depending on your fitness level, pace, and weather conditions.
The trail has 850 m of elevation gain, which combined with the 12 km distance contributes to its Hard difficulty rating. This makes it a challenging hike requiring good physical conditioning.
No, dogs are not permitted on this trail. Please leave your dog at home or arrange alternative care before your visit.
No, parking is not free at the trailhead. You should budget for parking fees when planning your visit to this trail in Hautes-Alpes.
Didn't find your answer?
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The Essential Hiking Checklist

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Update : June 2026