Cabin des Prés Clos

Cabane des Prés Clos sits at 2,543m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the eastern flank of the Massif du Pelvoux within Parc National des Écrins. The hut sits above the Vallée de la Durance. Most hikers approach from the village of Ancelle (1,350m) via the Pré de la Chaumette, a steady 4–5 hour climb. The route gains 1,200m elevation and follows marked trails through alpine meadows before reaching sparse terrain near the cabin. Summer access is straightforward; winter ascents require mountain skills and equipment.
The cabin is a small refuge managed by FFCAM, sleeping around 10–12 people in shared dormitory space. It operates summer season only, typically June through September depending on snow conditions. Meals are not provided; bring all food and cooking equipment. A wood stove provides heating. Note: there is no drinking water source at the hut—collect water below near Pré de la Chaumette or carry sufficient supply. Showers are not available. The cabin serves mountaineers heading to peaks in the Massif du Pelvoux and hikers on multi-day traverses of the high plateaux.
Contact FFCAM directly to confirm opening dates and reserve a spot, especially for July and August weekends when the hut fills. The cabin attracts fewer visitors than larger refuges, so booking 2–3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient except during peak summer. Bring a headtorch, warm layers, and a sleeping bag—conditions remain cold above 2,500m even in summer.