The wonders of TPM

Most of the participants of the TPM are seduced by the splendid setting of the territory. Let’s take a closer look at the most beautiful sites crossed by the routes!

THE EDF DAM FROM MONTEYNARD AVIGNONET

The Monteynard Lake is an artificial reservoir. It was created in 1962, when the EDF Dam in Monteynard Avignonet was built to harness the hydroelectric potential of the Drac River. Located 25 km south of Grenoble at an altitude of 500 m, the dam is an impressive structure: it rises 135 m high, stretches 230 m long, and measures 5 m wide at the top and 20 m wide at the base.

As a result of the dam’s construction, a 16 km-long lake was formed in 1962. Moreover, the power station is operated remotely from the Hydraulic Management Center in Lyon, while on-site teams regularly check the equipment to ensure safety and efficiency.

In terms of energy, the power station delivers 360 MW of total capacity. On average, it produces 460 GWh per year, which equals the residential consumption of a city of 200,000 inhabitants. In addition, this 100% renewable energy prevents the emission of 398,400 tons of CO2 annually, making it a significant contributor to sustainable development.

Finally, the EDF Dam of Lake Monteynard Avignonet proudly celebrated its 60^th anniversary in 2022, marking six decades of innovation and clean energy production.

THE HIMALAYAN FOOTBRIDGES

Unique footbridges in Europe!

In 2008, the SIVOM of Monteynard Avignonet Lake, with the support of local partners, built unique Himalayan footbridges on the site. Suspended above the turquoise waters, these bridges make it possible to cross the Drac and the Ébron Rivers. As a result, they connect the territories of Trièves and Matheysine, offering both a practical passage and a spectacular experience.

These Himalayan footbridges are truly exceptional. First, the Drac River footbridge measures an impressive 220 m in length and rises from 45 m to 85 m above the water level. Meanwhile, the Ébron River footbridge stretches 180 m long, also reaching between 45 m and 85 m high.

Together, they offer visitors a breathtaking crossing above the turquoise waters of Lake Monteynard, combining both adventure and spectacular scenery.

LE PETIT TRAIN DE LA MURE

The historic railway line of the Petit Train de La Mure was opened in 1888. Initially, it was used to transport coal to Grenoble from the various mining areas of the Matheysin plateau. In addition, the line carried miners and other workers employed in and around the mines, making it both an industrial lifeline and a social connector for the region.

After a century of service, the mythical railway line of the Petit Train de La Mure was adapted as a tourist attraction in 1988. However, in October 2010, a rockslide struck part of the line, forcing its closure. Thus, this dramatic event brought an end to 122 years of continuous operation.

Since its creation, the Trail des Passerelles Monteynard (TPM) has consistently highlighted the historic railway line of the Petit Train de La Mure, a true pillar of the Matheysin historical and cultural legacy. Over the years, participants have run along important sections of this railway line during several events:

The Big Race, showcasing the grandeur of the trail.
The 3^rd Poste, included since 2017.
The Petit Train, added in 2019.
The Mine Express, introduced in 2021, which even uses the Petit Train de La Mure at its start.

Thus, the TPM not only offers a sporting challenge but also ensures that runners remain closely connected to the heritage and history of the Matheysin plateau.

LA MINE IMAGE

During the Big Race and the 3rd Poste, participants will have the unique opportunity to pass through the Mine Image galleries, a genuine raw ore extraction site. Meanwhile, for the other runners, this special heritage site remains a must-see. So, make sure to visit it during your stay in the Isère region and discover the fascinating world of mining history.

The anthracite mine of La Motte-d’Aveillans was created during the reign of Napoléon I. It was shut down in 1956, but later reopened in 1986 thanks to the Association Sauvegarde et Mise en Valeur du Patrimoine Mottois. Since then, several raw ore extraction galleries have been restored and reopened for visits.

With a guide, visitors can explore these authentic galleries and retrace two centuries of mining history. Along the way, you will discover the techniques, the equipment from different eras, and the working conditions of the miners, often referred to as the “gueules noires.”

Moreover, the exhibition rooms of the Mine Image Museum reveal the lamp room, the “salle des pendus”, the daily trades, and the social universe of the mine. In the treasure room, you can admire magnificent minerals.

Finally, a 20-minute film immerses you in the formation of coal and shows how it has been exploited by humans over time.

Les 4 Galeries – 38770 LA MOTTE D’AVEILLANS – FRANCE
Phone: (0033)4.76.30.68.74 Fax: (0033)4.76.30.71.22
Website: www mine-image.com
Mail: la.mine.image@wanadoo.fr

Hop on Mira Boat to reach the departure of the race!

Only for the Rando des Passerelles, participants will have the opportunity to board the Mira boat to reach the starting point of the hike. Indeed, the cruise will take you directly to the Savel Campsite, which serves as the official departure site.

Moreover, the boat trip is included in your registration fee, making it both convenient and enjoyable. Please note, however, that booking can only be made during online registration. Therefore, no reservations will be accepted by phone.

For those who are not participating in the Footbridges Hike, you can still enjoy the Mira Boat throughout the summer season, starting in spring. Indeed, La Mira offers two memorable experiences:

A cruise to cross the lake. Afterwards, you can return to your departure point by hiking the famous Footbridges Walk, combining both adventure and scenery.
A cruise with lunch or dinner, allowing you to savor a meal while admiring the turquoise waters of Lake Monteynard.

To get more information, CLICK HERE

LA PIERRE PERCÉE (THE HOLED ROCK)

During the Big Race and the 3^rd Poste, participants will pass by the Holed Rock. This natural arch is 3 m wide and stands on the Pierre-Châtel council, at the top of Creyss Hill. It is one of the 7 wonders of the Dauphiné region.

You can reach it either from Pierre-Châtel village or from La Motte-d’Aveillans. Its mysterious shape looks like a kneeling monster. According to legend, the devil, after losing a bet to the Duke of Lesdiguières, was petrified here. Others say that during the solstice, the sun’s rays passing through the hole reveal a sacred place.

Whatever the interpretation, the Holed Rock is a memorable highlight of the Big Race. From this point, runners enjoy a magnificent view over the Matheysin plateau.

If you would like to hike and discover the holed rock, click on the following link: CLICK HERE

LE GRAND BALCON (THE BIG BALCONY)

This is one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Trail des Passerelles du Monteynard. Located at the terminus of the Petit Train de La Mure, the walkway offers a superb 180° panorama.
From here, you can admire Lake Monteynard and the dam, with the Vercors and the Mont-Aiguille rising in the background. As a result, this spot has become a must-see highlight for visitors and runners alike.

LE SÉNÉPI

The Sénépi and its summit mountain pasture mark the highest point of the Trail des Passerelles Monteynard (TPM). Although modest at 1,769 m, the climb is still extremely feared.

Indeed, the long ascent challenges runners of both the Maratrail and the Big Race, making it a legendary section.

At the summit, the reward is remarkable. From here, you enjoy a 360° panorama of the surrounding massifs. In addition, nearly 600 cows graze on the largest alpine pasture in France, forming a picturesque welcome committee.