Located in the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, the White-Martel trail is a must-do hike in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It is, in fact, the only major traverse of the Verdon Gorge floor. However, its one-way route, elevation gain, and technical sections require solid preparation. Here is everything you need to know before setting out on this itinerary.
The White-Martel trail: key facts
White-Martel trail: key figures
- Distance: 15 km
- Elevation gain: 1,000 m D+ / 1,000 m D- cumulative
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Level: moderate to difficult
The White-Martel trail is a 15 km one-way route that follows part of the GR4 long-distance path. It is suited to walkers in good physical condition, given its length and elevation gain. The hike includes a few technical sections but requires no climbing.
Which direction should you walk the White-Martel trail?
The crossing can be done in either direction. The classic, recommended route starts from the Maline chalet and finishes at the Point Sublime. This direction is advised for several reasons. First, the elevation profile is more favourable. It is better to descend the 400 metres of elevation difference between the Maline chalet and the Verdon than to climb them at the end of a hike, after 15 km of walking. Second, the descent of the famous metal steps is easier in this direction and offers a particularly impressive view. Finally, the official shuttle is organised to run in this direction.
Points of interest along the route
The White-Martel trail is dotted with several iconic sites. Shortly after the start, the Pas d'Issane offers a first spectacular panorama over the cliffs of the Verdon Gorge. The hike continues to the Brèche d'Imbert, the trail's most famous section. You descend a succession of six metal ladders through an impressive rock fissure. Just before the end, you pass through two tunnels: the Trescaïre tunnel, around 100 metres long, then the Baou tunnel, around 670 metres long.
In addition to the points of interest along the route, you can visit the Estellié footbridge in a 20-minute return trip. It allows you to cross the Verdon and is one of the route's iconic landmarks. You can also check out La Mescla in a 30 to 45-minute return trip. It offers an incredible viewpoint over the confluence of the Verdon and the Artuby.
Essential logistics: shuttle and parking
The White-Martel trail is not a loop hike, so planning your outing carefully is essential. To help with this, a shuttle service has been put in place. You can park for free in the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon. The shuttle takes you to the Maline chalet in the morning and picks you up at the Point Sublime in the afternoon.
The White-Martel shuttle typically runs from late April to early November. Booking is mandatory. A return ticket costs €8.50 per adult and €5.50 per child under 12. In addition to the shuttle, it is also possible to reach the trail head via regional bus line 450.
Another option is to park at the finish point, at the Point Sublime, and then take a taxi to drop you at the Maline chalet. Once the hike is over, you can head back easily. This option is, however, quite costly, as the car park charges a fee during peak season.
Practical tips: gear and best time to visit
A successful hike on the White-Martel trail starts with good preparation. First and foremost, dress appropriately. Choose hiking clothing suited to the weather forecast and wear hiking boots with a good grip.
Bring enough water, as there are no drinking water points along the route. In summer, temperatures easily exceed 30°C and many sections of the hike are exposed to full sun. In extreme heat, we recommend carrying at least 3 litres of water per person in your hiking backpacks.
The route passes through two tunnels, including the Baou tunnel, which is plunged into near-total darkness. To navigate it safely, a head torch or hand torch is essential. While your phone's flash can help in a pinch, its light is limited and drains the battery fast.
Finally, avoid heatwave periods when hiking in the Verdon Gorge. If you decide to go in summer, factor in the intense heat and any potential access restrictions to forested areas. In heavy rain or storms, some sections can also become slippery and the risk of the Verdon flooding increases. Ideally, aim for a spring or autumn outing, when temperatures are most pleasant for hiking.
Other trails to extend your Verdon experience
The Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin
- Distance: 11.5 km
- Elevation gain: 800 m D+
- Duration: 5 hours
- Level: difficult
After the White-Martel trail, the most adventurous hikers can take on the Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin. This loop route starts from the Félines car park. It begins with a steep ascent to the Col de l'Âne. Once on the ridge, the Plein Voir viewpoint reveals a breathtaking panorama. It offers a sweeping view over the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix and the exit of the Verdon grand canyon. The descent then follows the mountainside down to the Saint-Maurin nature reserve and its troglodyte caves.
The Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin is for experienced walkers only. Its balcony-style route includes vertiginous sections, one of which is equipped with a fixed handline.
The Samson Corridor
- Distance: 4 km
- Elevation gain: 200 m D+
- Duration: 1h30
- Level: easy
For families with young children interested in the White-Martel trail, the Samson Corridor is a great alternative. This 4 km out-and-back walk starts from the Samson Corridor car park. A viewpoint first offers a bird's-eye view over the narrow canyon entrance. The trail then descends to the water's edge.
The route passes through the two White-Martel tunnels, including the Baou tunnel. After that, walk a few minutes to reach the Baume aux Pigeons, an impressive cave offering a wild view over the Verdon. Then retrace your steps back to the start of the hike.
After exploring the Verdon, fans of great canyons can also opt for a hiking trip in Ardèche to discover other iconic gorges in the south of France.
What mistakes should you avoid on the White-Martel trail?
Organisation is key before setting out on the White-Martel trail. Forgetting to book the shuttle in peak season is strongly inadvisable. In July and August, shuttle seats are limited and can be fully booked several days in advance. Book as early as possible — otherwise you risk having to postpone the hike or arrange a taxi instead.
Although this hike requires no climbing, it is not accessible to everyone. It is long, physically demanding, and includes a few technical sections. For this reason, it is not recommended for children under eight or for those with a fear of heights. Dogs are also prohibited, even on a lead, to protect endangered species and for safety reasons.
Afternoons at the bottom of the canyon can be extremely hot. Setting off too late in the morning is a bad idea. You risk finishing the hike in scorching heat or arriving after the last shuttle. Instead, aim for an early morning start.
The White-Martel trail is more than just a hike. Between its length, its elevation gain, and its technical sections, it demands good physical fitness, the right gear, and solid logistics. Get all of that right and you will be fully rewarded by the spectacular scenery of the Verdon Gorge.
