Sentier des Arpelières

The Arpelières trail, at Crest-Voland (1,536 m), crosses the Saisies-Beaufortain-Val d'Arly bog regional nature reserve — 'the largest acid moss bog in the Alps'. Its figure-of-eight layout leaves the choice: a 1.8 km loop, a 1.2 km one, or the whole trail, 4.2 km. Duration and climb are not published on the sheet — we do not invent them.

The bog's fragile ground sets the rules, written as they stand: you walk 'on wooden duckboard footbridges, so beware in wet weather, slippery ground', and 'above all do not leave the path' — the wooden posts guiding the way, 'the children will love it'. In the reserve, dogs 'MUST' be kept on a leash; the trail is 'not suitable for strollers'.

From 1 June to 30 September, freely and free of charge every day. Guided visits are offered (€2 per person, night visits €4, free under 18, children's activities free). Three trailheads: the Nant Rouge on the D71A (Saisies road), the Monument car park at the Col des Saisies, or the La Palette forest road — mandatory car park then 20 minutes on foot. Free parking, dry toilets, picnic area; map and GPX online, booklet at the Maison des tourbières.