Grand Cheval de Bois, Mountain peak in Mercantour National Park, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France
Grand Cheval de Bois is a mountain peak in Mercantour National Park that sits above neighboring Petit Cheval de Bois, with a rocky ridge connecting the two summits. The terrain transitions between forested slopes lower down and open alpine terrain at higher elevations, providing views across the surrounding valleys and ridges.
The peak lies within the Pelat Mountains, positioned between the Ubaye Valley and the Upper Verdon Valley as part of the southern Alpine massif. This border region shaped settlement patterns and land use through the centuries, with pastoral traditions becoming dominant in the uplands.
Local shepherds maintain the alpine pastures during summer months, continuing the pastoral traditions of the French Alps.
Access starts from Col d'Allos and follows the GR56B trail to Baisse de Prenier, where the route continues on a less marked path. Stone cairns placed along the ridge guide walkers toward the summit, especially helpful in misty or unclear conditions.
Hikers cross three distinct zones during the ascent: woodland, alpine meadows, and exposed ridges marked with stone cairns for navigation.
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