Lac Taney hike
April 2023
The Lac Taney hike is a scenic trail in the Swiss Alps that leads to a stunning mountain lake. Here are some important details to know before embarking on this hike:
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours (return)
Distance: approx 6 km (4 miles)
Elevation gain: 465m (1525 feet)
Starting point: Parking du Flon
Ending point: Lac Taney
Description
The hiking trail is marked and offers two options to reach the destination: a route on a gravel road that takes 1 hour and 20 minutes or a route through the forest that takes only 1 hour. During our hike, we chose to go up through the forest and come down via the gravel road. However, when we went, the gravel road was closed to vehicles due to the risk of avalanches, so we were unbothered while descending. Keep in mind that if the road is open, it may be a bit more bothersome to go up or down that route.
Highlights:
Beautiful views of the valley, the Swiss Alps, and Lac Taney.
Chance to see mountain wildlife, such as ibex and chamois (if you're lucky and early).
Opportunities for swimming and picnicking at the lake.
Nearby restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine.
Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Pack a picnic lunch (or check if restaurants are open) and plenty of water. Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, as the trail can get busy on weekends.
Lac Taney is an excellent starting point for hiking up to the top of Grammont. However, if you plan to visit in early spring, you should be aware that there may be snow on the trail, and you may need ski-touring equipment to reach the summit. In the summer months, the trail is typically clear, and you can enjoy the stunning views from the top of Grammont.
Along the way, we identified Coltsfoot, Red elderberry, different kinds of mosses on top of rocks, and this Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus), pictured here! These plants do not smell but the leaves do when crushed. This plant loves the moist soil characteristic of early spring when the snow is melting. Having said that, if you go in early spring, expect some slippery muddy sections.
Magnificent views of the Vouvry and the Swiss Alps going up
There was still snow in the beginning of April! This was the last part of the hike before reaching the lake.
Lac Taney
Left is the altitude elevation according to my Garmin in each kilometer. The Parking du Flon is indicated with the red arrow. I started recorded a bit after the hike already started.