The Niard Pass from Le Peray – hiking trail

A challenging hike through the Plateau des Bénés, before reaching the Col de Niard.

Discover the Col de Niard hike: this trail begins in the forest, heading toward Tête Noire.

As you climb, the forest gives way to an open plateau, offering spectacular panoramic views from the Plateau des Bénés. Here, pastoral life is still very much alive: don’t be surprised to come across cows grazing in the mountain pastures.

The highlight of this hike is undoubtedly the Col de Niard. A cascade of natural beauty unfolds before you, with majestic views of the surrounding peaks.

Easily accessible, this trail is perfect for all nature lovers.

Departmental signage on a beige metal sign with green lettering

IGN Map 3430ET - LA CLUSAZ LE GRAND-BORNAND
"Les Belvédères du Mont-Blanc" map on sale for €7 at the tourist office
Snowshoe and summer trail map from Cordon Tourisme

1/ Park at the Parking des Mouilles, take the path that goes up to Peray
2/ Take the direction of Tête Noire, a trail in the forest with steep slope
3/ Arrived at Tête Noire, take the direction of the Cabane Du Petit Pâtre, walk through the Plateau des Bénés.
4/ Arrived at the Cabane du Petit Pâtre, go down towards Col de Niard.
5/ Arrived at the Col de Niard two options:
Option 1: form a loop by taking the direction of the Chalets de Coeur. Arrived at the Chalets de Coeur, go down again at the level of the Pierre Fendue then follow the Pont de la Flée, Cordon Le Cochenet. At Cochenet, take the Portes des Alpages loop back towards Les Mouilles. This option is longer than option 2.
Option 2: go back up towards the Cabane du Petit Pâtre, go down either from Tête Noire or from Les Mouilles, possibility to also go down through Les Seythet and Chanté and join Les Mouilles.