About
Cabane ONF de l'Infernet sits at 2,180m in the Hautes-Alpes, deep in the Parc National des Écrins. The cabin lies on the GR54 trail system, making it a natural stop for multi-day treks through the Écrins massif. Most hikers approach from the Valgaudemar valley to the west. The walk from Gîte de la Chapelle (at road-end) takes roughly 4 hours via the Pas de l'Alpette. Approach from the east via Boréon and the Lac de Malgovert is longer—allow 5 to 6 hours—but less crowded. Both routes gain around 1,000m elevation.
The ONF (Office National des Forêts) maintains this simple refuge as a working mountain hut, not a tourist facility. It sleeps 20 to 25 people in dormitory space. There are no showers. Water comes from a spring nearby. Meals are available if you book ahead: expect basic mountain fare—soup, pasta, cheese. The hut operates year-round, though winter access requires mountaineering experience and avalanche awareness. Summer crowds are manageable compared to high-altitude refuges; July and August are busiest but rarely overcrowded. The cabin works best as part of a longer Écrins traverse rather than a destination hike.
Book directly with the ONF Valgaudemar office or contact the Refuge du Gîte de la Chapelle, which coordinates access. Phone ahead in winter to confirm conditions. Bring a stove and fuel as backup—the hut's cooking setup is basic and sometimes overwhelmed in peak season.
The ONF (Office National des Forêts) maintains this simple refuge as a working mountain hut, not a tourist facility. It sleeps 20 to 25 people in dormitory space. There are no showers. Water comes from a spring nearby. Meals are available if you book ahead: expect basic mountain fare—soup, pasta, cheese. The hut operates year-round, though winter access requires mountaineering experience and avalanche awareness. Summer crowds are manageable compared to high-altitude refuges; July and August are busiest but rarely overcrowded. The cabin works best as part of a longer Écrins traverse rather than a destination hike.
Book directly with the ONF Valgaudemar office or contact the Refuge du Gîte de la Chapelle, which coordinates access. Phone ahead in winter to confirm conditions. Bring a stove and fuel as backup—the hut's cooking setup is basic and sometimes overwhelmed in peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; this is a small ONF cabin with limited capacity, so early booking is essential during peak season.
Open June to September; staffing and exact dates depend on snow conditions and ONF maintenance schedules, so confirm with ONF before planning.
From Gîte de la Chapelle (Valgaudemar valley, west side), allow 4 hours via Pas de l'Alpette; from Boréon (east), allow 5–6 hours via Lac de Malgovert.
As an ONF refuge, expect basic shelter with dormitory beds and a caretaker who typically provides meals; bring your own sleeping bag and check water availability in advance.
Not ideal for beginners—the 4–6 hour approaches and 2,180m altitude require solid hiking fitness and comfort on steep, exposed mountain terrain.
Location
44.9328, 5.9359
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