and here, too, are glacial torrents, perpetual snowfield and an abundance of wild life, including many alpine species. To hte south, hillsides are often parched and brttle under a relentless summer sun and the air is heavy with the chirping of crickets and the scent of wild herbs. Between the two, a long-distance trail winds its way past picturesque ancient villages, emerald lakes and remote reguges, through valley and forest and over high, rugged passes across som of France''s most beautiful mountain terrain. The trail is known as " La Grande Traversée des Alpes" - " The gGrast Traverse of the Alps".