Cross-country: Les Barrages

A wonderful trail including a balcony path, a visit to the Vanoise National Park with views over Plan d'Amont and Plan d'Aval lakes, and an amusing descent to finish!
Description
A long, fairly steady climb with some short steep sections, first on a track which quickly dwindles to a singletrack path that rises to 2250 metres. You'll then follow a magnificent singletrack mountainside path, a real must-do with its superb views over the valley and the Vanoise mountains. Pure bliss! You then enter the valley and find yourself looking down at the dams. Stop for a breath at a refuge, choosing between Plan Sec and Plan de la Fournache. Your descent begins on very pleasant tracks along the lakes of Plan d'Amont and Plan d'Aval, then on an amusing singletrack path which plunges down to Aussois (Evita Carnéa Enduro trail). If you're fit enough, this must-do trail is one of the best in the area.
Built between 1945 and 1956, these two reservoirs are an integral part of Haute-Maurienne's hydroelectric complex. They contribute to the water supply of Mont-Cenis dam lake, even though the latter is located on the other side of the valley.
Equipment
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Parking nearby
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Mountain biking itinerary
Additional welcome
As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.
Environments
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Forest location
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Lake view
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Mountain location
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Close to GR footpath
Rates
Free access.
Opening period
From 01/05 to 15/10.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Additional opening
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Subject to favorable weather
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Subject to snow conditions
Location
The route starts at Aussois Plan de la Croix (Aussois exit towards Sardières).
I'll get there by bus: line S52 - Le Centre stop (in summer, the bus is equipped with a bicycle trailer - ask about days and times).
By car: park in the Plan de la Croix parking lot.
Documents
Animals
Pets allowed : No
Part of the route is in the Vanoise National Park, so animals are not allowed.