Map of the Bonavau – Susanfe stage
Infos Bonavau – Susanfe
Distance: 3,85km
Elevation gain: 619m
Elevation loss: 65m
Total elevation gain: 684m
Maximum altitude: Cabane de Susanfe, 2102m
Difficulty: T3
Hiking time: ~2h
Description of the Bonavau–Susanfe stage
From the terrace of the Refuge de Bonavau, the path continues, overlooking the Saufla torrent. The first section is relatively flat and offers impressive views of the Ruan Glacier.
After about 1 km, you reach a junction where hikers can either take the path to Champéry via the Belle-Étoile footbridge. To reach the Cabane de Susanfe, however, you should not take this path, but rather the one that continues to climb towards the Ruan… although a short detour to see the footbridge might be worth it!
Once past the junction, the slope becomes steeper before arriving, after about a 10-minute walk, at the foot of the Pas d’Encel. This is an exposed section equipped with chains (more details and photos below) – those with a fear of heights should take care! Once at the top of the Pas d’Encel, you cross the Saufla torrent via a small metal footbridge right at the foot of the Gietro dam.
A few more steps through this sort of basin at the foot of the dam take you into the sublime Susanfe cirque. A valley dominated by the Ruan glacier, which leads towards the Susanfe Hut.
This final part of the stage is extremely picturesque. On the final stretch leading to the hut, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Dents du Midi and, in particular, the Haute Cime, the highest peak in the range (3,257 m), which overlooks the Col de Susanf
Difficulty of the stage
The Bonavau–Susanfe section is truly magnificent and, on the whole, does not present any major difficulties. The Pas d’Encel can prove tricky for those prone to vertigo. It is a mountain path on exposed ledges fitted with chains to aid progress, with a drop-off on one side. However, it is the only route connecting Bonavau to Susanfe.
Note: less daunting on the ascent (the direction of the stage) than on the descent.
Extend the stage
For experienced hikers, and provided the weather is favourable, extend your stay at the Cabane de Susanfe to climb the Haute Cime (difficulty T4). From the hut, it takes between 3 and 3½ hours’ walking to reach the summit, covering the 1,155m elevation gain between the hut and the summit.
Route: from the hut, continue along the path towards the Col de Susanfe. Once at the pass, take the path through the scree that zigzags upwards, heading first towards the Col des Paresseux and then the Haute Cime.
Stages
- Previous stage: Barme – Bonavau
- Next stage: Susanfe – La Vogealle
Pictures of the Bonavau – Susanfe stage
