At Eygliers Gare, near Mont-Dauphin and the Guil Valley in the Hautes-Alpes, the Sentier des Marmottes d’Eygliers is a free 800 m circular trail. Allow 30 minutes' walking and approximately 50 m of elevation gain on this very easy family-friendly route.
Where and when can you see marmots?
The waymarked trail, dotted with interpretation panels, allows visitors to observe the animals from a distance and discover the landscapes of the Écrins and the Mont-Dauphin fortifications. Marmots are most active from spring to early autumn and generally hibernate from mid-October to April. The trail remains open all year, but visiting in winter does not guarantee any sightings.
An extra detail
The walk is short enough to combine with a visit to the fortified town of Mont-Dauphin. Observation stops and shaded areas offer places to sit quietly; feeding marmots or leaving the marked path is strictly prohibited, to protect wildlife.
What to know before visiting
The trail starts at the Sentier des Marmottes car park, Eygliers Gare, 05600 Eygliers. According to the tourism website, pets are allowed under control, and part of the route is surfaced. Any guided activities organised by local associations are separate from this self-guided walk. This trail is not a 4 km hike in Vallouise-Pelvoux: the address and distance given above refer to the official site.