Refuge de la Pilatte

Refuge de la Pilatte stands at 2,577m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the eastern flank of the Massif du Pelvoux within Parc National des Écrins. The hut is accessed from the Vallée du Drac via the hamlet of Pont-du-Fossé. The standard approach takes 3–4 hours from the road head at Champoléon, following the GR54 trail through open alpine meadows and scree. Most parties start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms on exposed sections. The location sits astride a major east–west crossing of the park, making it a strategic base for multi-day traverses.
The refuge operates year-round, though winter access is mountaineering-only and requires avalanche awareness. Summer capacity is 120 beds across shared dormitories. The kitchen serves fixed dinner menus (book ahead) and packed lunches. A small shop stocks basic supplies and fuel cartridges. Water comes from a spring; there is no shower. The warden maintains a weather station and can advise on conditions in the Écrins. The hut is staffed from April to September; shoulder-season visits outside these months require advance notice.
Book by phone directly with the warden, especially for July and August when demand runs high—reserve at least 4–6 weeks ahead. June, September, and early October are quieter but still reliable for good weather. Groups over 15 people should contact FFCAM in advance. Half-board (bed and dinner) is standard; full board adds breakfast.