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Winter sports

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is like walking silently through winter

Snowshoeing in La Thuile

Leaving behind the stress of the city and of work, immersing yourself in powerful and regenerating nature, letting your gaze lose itself in the whiteness of the snow: this is the promise of snowshoe walks in La Thuile. And if you encounter an endless landscape made of frozen lakes, forests, and majestic peaks, you will understand why many people choose group snowshoe hikes in La Thuile: the best way to combine physical and mental well-being, friendliness, and the sublime beauty of nature.

Snowshoe hikes in La Thuile offer a variety of routes of different lengths and difficulty levels, ranging from the most relaxing ones—perfect for families with children and beginners—to more demanding ones that last over four hours and are ideal for experts and well-trained athletes. What do they all have in common? The scenery, panoramic viewpoints, wild nature, and the vast open spaces that only the wild side of Mont Blanc can offer.

Not to be missed is the route that follows the ancient mining paths, witnesses of La Thuile’s historical past. Here, you can discover the old miners’ village, the entrances to the tunnels, and the remains of a thousand-year-old history in which people moved across the snow with animal skins—early versions of snowshoes—amid a natural environment that has never allowed anything easily.

The best period for snowshoeing in La Thuile is from December to March.

Links and further information

🔗 Useful information from the Zerovertigo guides
🔗 Useful information with the Sirdar Montagne et Aventure guides
🔗 For the latest information on snow conditions and potential dangers d'avalanche

Snowshoeing routes in La Thuile

Easy loop snowshoe hike starting from SR39 at Col San Carlo (1745 m) and reaching the hamlet of Petosan (1752 m). The route covers 2 km, with 70 m of elevation gain and about 1 hour of walking.
The trail first follows a snowy road through larch trees and wide alpine meadows, offering stunning views of Mont Blanc, the Dent du Géant, and the Grandes Jorasses.

After passing through the village of Petosan, the trail gently climbs to the highest point of the route (1783 m), where the signs for Snowshoe Route 1–Purple appear. Avoiding the forest’s shadow, the trail takes a sunny descent leading to a secluded hut, followed by a short climb along a panoramic ridge, with views of the meadows and the houses of Petosan.

The path then runs alongside the trenches of Prince Thomas, ancient 17th-century defensive structures, from which La Thuile can be observed. Finally, a steeper descent quickly brings you back to the starting point.

For whom:
Suitable for everyone, including beginners and families with children.

Why do it:
Short, safe, scenic route fully immersed in the silence of the winter landscape.

 

Discover all the details of the route👣:Snowshoe walk Petosan

A highly scenic route that follows the Rutor stream through woods, ice formations, and winter landscapes, culminating at the impressive first Rutor waterfall, truly spectacular in winter.

Starting from the Preylet parking lot, the trail climbs following the snowshoe signs into the forest. You follow the stream along a very picturesque section, then take a short stretch of paved road (it is recommended to remove your snowshoes).
You reach the buildings of Promise and, following a gently ascending road, arrive in the La Joux basin.

From there, you cross a snow-covered meadow towards the houses of Soudara, then re-enter the forest. Be careful not to lose the trail, as the tracks can be confusing.
After passing the highest point (1710 m), the trail descends to the wooden bridge above the waterfall (1700 m).
A short path leads to the panoramic viewpoint (1670 m), from which you can enjoy the best view of the waterfall.

Return via the same route.

Discover all the details of the route❄️👣: Snowshoe walk to the Rutor Waterfall

Easy and steady excursion in the forest, with educational signs along the ascent and beautiful panoramic views of La Thuile, the Dente del Gigante, and the Grandes Jorasses.
After Cretaz, the route becomes wilder and more secluded until the Baraccon ruins, a particularly scenic viewpoint. An optional small loop at the end is available for those with more experience with snowshoes.

From the parking lot, the hike begins on a snowy road, following first route 2B and then the green 5 snowshoe signs. The trail climbs in wide switchbacks through a forest of spruces and larches, with several viewpoints and educational panels, until reaching the hamlet of Cretaz (1,736 m), from where you can enjoy a stunning view of La Thuile and the Mont Blanc massif.

The route then continues on a less-traveled track, passing an entrance to the old mines, until reaching the Baraccon ruins (1,864 m), a particularly spectacular viewpoint.

Return: via the same route as the ascent.
Loop variant: just before the ruins, descend into the forest following the snowshoe signs along the Granier Trail, passing through larches and the old mines to rejoin the route above Cretaz; this section is more technical and recommended for experienced hikers.

Discover all the details of the itinerary ❄️👣: Hike to Cretaz.

 

Experience a stunning winter adventure across snow-covered valleys, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. This hike offers both a gentle, scenic route and an optional technical loop for experienced snowshoers.

The Route:
From the Les Granges parking lot, start with a brief walk between houses before entering the forest, following the black No. 2 snowshoe markers. The trail ascends gently and steadily, leading to a broad, open valley lined with spruces and larches, and reaching a small metal storage shed.

Optional Technical Loop:
For seasoned hikers, continue straight past the shed, descend a steep slope toward Thovex (1,535 m), and then climb back along a balcony trail with spectacular panoramic views to return to Les Granges. This loop requires caution due to exposure and sometimes deep snow.

Easier Option:
For a more relaxed outing, simply retrace your steps along the scenic, flat valley section.

Highlights:
Peaceful, snow-covered forests and valleys

Expansive open landscapes with panoramic mountain views

A unique “between snow and sky” atmosphere

This hike is perfect for those looking to combine tranquility, adventure, and breathtaking winter scenery in one memorable outing.
 

Discover all the details of the itinerary ❄️👣: Hike to Mont du Parc

Si vous n'avez pas de raquettes, découvrez où vous pouvez les louer à La Thuile 

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