Guided snowshoe hike in the heart of the Aravis Mountains
Discover La Clusaz, Manigod, and the most beautiful winter trails in the Aravis
Nestled in the heart of the Haute-Savoie mountains, La Clusaz and Manigod are authentic villages situated at the foot of the majestic Aravis mountain range, renowned for its wild valleys and spectacular landscapes.
Here, we are also in the heart of the region famous for Reblochon cheese, whose pastoral history has shaped unique landscapes blending alpine pastures, forests, and mountain peaks.
I invite you to discover these natural areas on snowshoe hikes led by a mountain guide. As you make your way through the snow-covered woods, you’ll explore unspoiled areas and reach remarkable vantage points offering unforgettable panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Many snowshoe trails can be completed in half a day, which is about a 3-hour hike. At the Col des Aravis, one loop in particular takes you through Les Plachaux and along the Crête du Cornet. Here, you’ll be hiking along the border between Savoie and Haute-Savoie, in a more rugged and distinctly alpine setting. The view of Mont Blanc from there is exceptional, and it’s not uncommon to spot chamois.
The summit of Danay, an accessible peak above La Clusaz, is an ideal half-day hike. It offers a magnificent view of the entire Aravis mountain range. The Follières Plateau, located above the Maison des Bois—where chef Marc Veyrat works—is also a must-visit destination for snowshoeing in the area.
For full-day excursions, we head further west toward Mont Charvin. Several routes are possible, ranging from the classic ascent of Mont Sulens to wilder, lesser-known trails such as the Pointe d’Orsière or the Plan du Tour.
Information & Pricing
Activity Schedule:
Morning: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Afternoon: 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Full Day: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
These are approximate times; we adapt to the participants and weather conditions.
Price starting at: €21 per person for a full group (12 participants)
The price includes
Guidance from a state-certified mountain guide.
Rental of snowshoes and poles.
The price does not include
Transportation to the trailhead.
Anything not listed under “What’s Included.”
F.A.Q
Where can you go snowshoeing in La Clusaz?
La Clusaz offers several areas suitable for snowshoeing, depending on snow conditions: the Col des Aravis, the Tête du Danay, the Plachaux, the Cornet Ridge, and the Plateau des Follières. The choice of route depends on the weather, the group’s skill level, and the safety of the terrain.
Are snowshoe hikes in La Clusaz suitable for beginners?
Yes, some tours are suitable for beginners, particularly the half-day options. The route is tailored to the participants’ skill level, their physical condition, and the conditions on the day. The goal is to make steady progress at a comfortable pace while enjoying the snow-covered scenery.
How long does a snowshoe hike in La Clusaz or Manigod last?
Tours can be organized as half-day excursions, with about three hours of hiking, or as full-day excursions to explore more remote and immersive trails. The format depends on the group’s skill level, the weather, and the chosen area.
What equipment should I bring for the outing?
You should bring warm, waterproof clothing (such as ski gear or winter hiking pants), high-top, waterproof hiking boots, gloves, and a hat.
Why choose a snowshoeing trip in La Clusaz, Manigod, and the Aravis Mountains?
La Clusaz and Manigod are among the most interesting areas in Haute-Savoie for exploring snowshoeing. At the foot of the Aravis Range, the landscapes alternate between snow-covered forests, open alpine meadows, wild valleys, and panoramic ridges. It’s the ideal terrain for gradually venturing away from the trails and experiencing a true winter immersion.
The Col des Aravis offers a distinctly alpine atmosphere on the border between Savoie and Haute-Savoie. When conditions are favorable, a loop hike via Les Plachaux and the Cornet ridge takes you through spectacular scenery, sometimes offering exceptional views of Mont Blanc.
The Tête du Danay is a great destination for a half-day outing. Accessible from the La Clusaz area, it offers a wide-open panorama of the Aravis massif, the surrounding villages, and the snow-covered landscapes of Haute-Savoie.
Over in the Manigod area, the terrain becomes more rugged. Mount Sulens, the Pointe d’Orsière, and the Plan du Tour offer wonderful full-day hikes, with a greater sense of seclusion and routes suited for groups seeking a more immersive experience.
Beyond the physical activity itself, a snowshoe hike in the Aravis Mountains also offers a deeper understanding of the region. La Clusaz and Manigod are deeply rooted in pastoral history, alpine pastures, and Reblochon cheese. In winter, these landscapes take on a different character: the chalets, valleys, and forests come together to form an authentic setting that is both vibrant and unspoiled.
Guidance from a mountain professional ensures you choose the right route at the right time. When snowshoeing, safety depends heavily on snow conditions, weather, visibility, the group’s skill level, and the terrain’s exposure. Each outing is therefore tailored to ensure a pleasant, consistent, and safe experience.
