Today we hiked Trou de la Mouche (2467m) from La Clusaz. We were greeted at the start of the trail by happy, bell wearing goats, then some cows, and the echo of bleating sheep. We made a nice loop up the Paccaly valley, through the arch, and down via Grand Crêt.
We took a long lunch break after 3 hours ascending, to enjoy the view and the sun before the final climb to the passage.
The final climb up to Trou de la Mouche was a fun scramble.
Headed back down, we were cautious not to have make too many arm-jerks and backbends to regain balance after brief slide-outs on the steep, loose descent. This may have been our first descent that required as much time more energy than the climb. This would be a good hike to bring along the poles.
Each week I've been claiming a new favorite hike...so this week Trou de la Mouche was my new favorite- for the spectacular panoramas and for the steep, rocky challenge. Starting from La Clusaz was a bit busier than many of the hikes we've done so far, but a great town to walk though afterwards and grab some fresh peaches to hold us over until dinner. We saw more hikers along this trail, but mostly passing through the archway or stopped for a snack. We also remembered to bring along the flexi-tripod so I don't have to precariously perch my camera on the edge of rocks.
