Le sentier de l'Imbut - Gorges du Verdon

Le Sentier de l’Imbut: Mythical hike in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon

The sentier de l’Imbut is without doubt one of the most impressive hikes in the Verdon. Nestled at the bottom of the Grand Canyon du Verdon, this trail alternates between vertiginous cliffs, narrow passages and grandiose landscapes.

⚠️ Caution! This is a difficult hike for experienced hikers only. We advise against returning via the Vidal path, as it is dangerous (closed in rainy weather).

1. Practical information about the Sentier de l’Imbut

Distance: 10 to 12 km (round trip)
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Ascent: +600 m
Level: Difficult
Beaconing: Yellow
Start: Hotel du Grand Canyon parking lot (D71)
Ideal period: Spring and autumn (avoid summer because of the heat).

2. Detailed itinerary of the Sentier de l’Imbut

Departure : From the Grand Canyon Hotel parking lot

The hike starts from the Hôtel du Grand Canyon parking lot, on the D71 road. Right from the start, the trail descends steeply through a Mediterranean forest. It soon joins the Styx trail, another emblematic Verdon site.

The Styx: A River Carved in Rock

After a 40-minute descent, we arrive at the Styx du Verdon, a place where the river has carved out amazing rock formations.

🔹 The water is an intense emerald green, and the sheer cliffs add an almost unreal dimension to the landscape.

It’s a perfect place for a break, but swimming is prohibited due to the strong current.

Descent to l’Imbut: A Technical and Vertiginous Part

After the Styx, the trail becomes more technical and narrow. Some sections are equipped with cables and metal ramps to facilitate progress.

⚠️ Be careful: some parts of the trail run along precipices, and the ground can be slippery, especially after rain.

L’Imbut: Impressive mineral chaos

The highlight of this hike is theImbut, an immense rocky chaos where the Verdon disappears beneath the boulders.

💎 A unique and wild place where you can feel all the power of the river.

Many hikers stop here before turning back. The Vidal trail, which takes you back up by a different route, is dangerous and not recommended.

3. Return by the same route

Once you’ve enjoyed themagical atmosphere of the Imbut, it’s best to retrace your steps rather than attempt the ascent via the Vidal path (very exposed and often closed).

4. Practical tips for a successful Imbut hike

Essential equipment

✔️ Hiking shoes with good grip
✔️ At least 2 liters of water (no drinking water on the trail)
✔️ Cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
✔️ Hiking poles (can help on steep descents)
✔️ Small snack or picnic to recharge batteries

Safety and Precautions

⚠️ Do not attempt the climb via the Vidal path (too dangerous).
⚠️ Check the weather forecast before setting off (risk of flash floods)
⚠️ Don’t hike alone if you fall or have problems.

5. Why do the Sentier de l’Imbut?

✅ One of the Verdon’s most beautiful trails
✅ Total immersion in the Grand Canyon du Verdon
✅ Spectacular, wild landscapes
✅ A technical route for experienced hikers

If you’re up for the challenge, this hike will leave you with unforgettable memories! 🏞️💙

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