Quinçod - Merendiou - Colle Chasten

From Quinçod (1030 m), a hamlet in the Brusson valley floor, the trail climbs toward Merendiou and then to Colle Chasten (2549 m), gaining 1708 m over 8.6 km — one of the longest and most demanding ascents in the Brusson sector. The route crosses the different altitude bands of the Val d'Ayas: mixed forest in the lower section, pastures and larch forest in the middle band, open grassland and rock toward the ridge. The EE rating reflects the accumulated elevation gain and irregular terrain in the upper sections. Season: June–September; early start required.