Lac de l'Eychauda, Mountain lake in Vallouise-Pelvoux, France

Lac de l'Eychauda is a high-altitude body of water in the Écrins massif, set within rocky slopes above Vallouise-Pelvoux. Its surface often shows a milky color from glacial melt, and in late summer small chunks of ice can still drift near the shore.

The surrounding slopes have long served as summer pasture for local herders, with rough stone shelters built for tending animals. Modern protection came later when the area was included in the Écrins National Park, limiting vehicle access to keep the valley quiet.

Stone sheepfolds still stand on the hillsides, and in summer shepherds move flocks across the open grazing land near the trail. Hikers can watch this rhythm of mountain pasture life while walking toward the water.

The walk up crosses a sunny slope that heats quickly, so starting before dawn helps avoid the worst of the warmth. Bring a wind layer, because the air near the water can turn cold even when the valley below feels mild.

Even in the middle of August, floating pieces of ice can linger on the water, fed by nearby glacier remnants. Walkers sometimes hear a soft clinking as small chunks bump together at the edge before melting away.