FRENCH ALPS SNOWSHOE TRIP
French Alps Snowshoeing
CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC // FRANCE
This winter, Evoke Adventure will be heading to the snowy peaks of the French Alps. Testing out new routes which explore snowy forests, rolling peaks, and cosy nights in alpine mountain huts. We're planning our new adventure and will be looking for 6-8 adventurous-minded souls to join us.
Location
Chamonix Valley sits at the foot of the majestic Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak, standing at 4810m. Chamonix town is a vibrant mountain town in the French Alps, world-renowned as a premier destination for year-round outdoor adventure. Chamonix has a rich history tied to early mountain exploration and hosted the very first Winter Olympic Games in 1924.
2027 Dates
23RD - 30TH JANUARY 2027 SPACES
£2,239
8-day trip, with 6 full days of hiking
Who's this trip for
We’ll be hiking with light day packs, carrying only the clothing, food and equipment we need for the day.
We’ll aim to hike every day, and while distances will vary, you’ll need to be happy doing 5-6 hours of hiking (including breaks) with up to 1,000 m of elevation gain.
Our routes follow well-defined trails most of the time, with some steep ascents and descents and some exposure at height.
Private groups
If you have a group of friends or family who'd love this adventure, we have dates available for private groups, and can tailor trips for your needs. Please get in touch to discuss options.
Route
Snowshoeing in the Chamonix Valley offers a tranquil way to experience the high Alps in winter. While the valley is dominated by steep granite spires and ski infrastructure, an extensive network of serene snowshoe trails lies nearby, winding through ancient pine forests, quiet alpine pastures, and high ridges facing the Mont Blanc massif.
Snowshoeing Itinerary
Day 1: Intro Walk. Bois du Bouchet & Les Tines 8 km, +150 m.
We'll start on the valley floor with an intro to equipment and technique, then take a gentle walk through snow-covered spruce and pine forests near Chamonix. The trail follows the Arve River towards Les Tines, offering classic views of the Les Drus and Aiguille Verte spires.
Day 2: Balcon Nord Winter Trail & Chalets de Chailloux 8 - 10 km, +550 m.
From Les Houches, we climb through quiet forests to Chalets de Chailloux. Emerging above the tree line rewards you with wide-open views across the Chamonix valley directly onto the north face of Mont Blanc.
Day 3: Vallorcine & Refuge de Loriaz 8.5 km, +700 m.
Take the local train up to Vallorcine near the Swiss border. Climb through larch woods up to the high alpine pasture of Loriaz. The open plateau features classic wooden chalets, a friendly winter refuge for lunch, and sweeping valley vistas.
Day 4: Bérard Valley Wilderness 9 km, +400 m.
Departing from Le Buet, we'll traverse and slowly climb the stunning wooded valley into the protected Bérard Valley Reserve. This wild, untouched valley runs beneath the Aiguilles Rouges, following a frozen stream up into an amphitheatre of snow-capped peaks.
Day 5: Plateau du Truc & Contamines Reserve 10 km, +500 m.
A short drive to nearby Val Montjoie. Snowshoeing up through pine forest to Plateau du Truc, where traditional wooden chalets sit beneath the dramatic Dômes de Miage glaciers.
Day 6: Summit Le Petit Croisse Baulet
Snowshoeing up to Le Petit Croisse Baulet takes us along a scenic ridge trail that climbs gently above pine forests and open alpine pastures. At the 2,009-meter summit, you are rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama, with the Mont Blanc massif on one side and the dramatic Aravis mountain range on the other.
Wildlife
The mountain forests and snow-covered slopes support a resilient array of Alpine wildlife. Along forest edges and lower alpine pastures, you can often spot fresh tracks in the powder left by mountain hares, red foxes, and stoats. Higher up along the rocky, windswept crags where snow clears quickly, hardy alpine ibex and chamois navigate steep terrain in search of exposed lichen and grass. Overhead, large birds of prey like the impressive bearded vulture soar, while black grouse and ptarmigans nestle under snowbanks to endure the extreme mountain chill.
accommodation
Tucked away in the peaceful alpine hamlet of Les Houches, our accommodation comprises a traditional mountain chalet that offers a warm, inviting refuge after a full day on the snowy trails. Comfortable twin rooms with plush bedding, crisp linens, and warm timber finishes guarantee a restful night’s sleep. The chalet's heart is a spacious open-plan living area, centred around a crackling wood-burning fireplace where guests can unwind and socialise. Each evening, wholesome home-cooked meals bring everyone together for hearty dinners and stories of the day's adventures.
Testimonial
An awesome week of adventure. Such a great way to access big, snowy mountains.
Clare - UK
Arrival/Departure
You'll need to arrive in Les Houches after 4pm on the trip start date. Several airport transfers offer door-to-door service from Geneva Airport. Or single-destination transfers to Chamonix Bus station, where we can arrange a pickup.
On the last day of our trip, check-out is no later than 10 am. Airport transfers can be easily organised for pick-up at the chalet, or a lift to Chamonix bus or train station can be arranged between 8 and 10 am.
Included in the price
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Snowshoe Guide (International Mountain Leader)
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Snowshoes, poles & Avalanche Equipment
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Chalet Accommodation (twin rooms)
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Pick-up & drop-off (details above)
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Transfers to/from daily hikes
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Half-board; Hearty breakfasts and evening meals.
not included in the price
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Airfare and baggage fees
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Airport Transfers
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Travel insurance
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Lift passes if required
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Lunch
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Any extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances
Booking
A £600 deposit is required to secure your spot, with the remainder due 10 weeks before the trip start date.
If you have any questions about the trip or would like more information you can contact us