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Snowshoe trail from Lélex to Crêt de la Neige
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Description
Set off to climb Crêt de la Neige, the highest peak in the Jura mountains. This challenging hike takes you through forests and valleys before reaching the ridges. From there, you can admire the beautiful views of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva, and the Alps.
Merci de respecter ces règles afin de préserver la richesse de cet environnement exceptionnel.
Take in sweeping views as you make your way along the trail: first over the Valserine Valley, then over the Haut-Jura. When you reach the ridges, the views of Mont Blanc, the Alps, Lake Geneva, Geneva, Salève, and the Écluse Pass create a spectacular backdrop. This demanding trail will certainly reward you with unforgettable moments!
The route runs through the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, a protected and preserved area to be explored with respect.
Good to know – Protected area
Part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:
– The trail crosses a quiet zone that is closed from December 15 to June 30. You may use the route but you must stay strictly on the marked trail.
– Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead.
Please respect these rules in order to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Additional information
Contact
Phone : 04 50 28 09 16
Website : https://www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Open period
From 01/12 to 31/03 daily.
Itinerary to be followed during the snow season until 1 May.
Environments
Mountain view
Ski resort
Mountain location
In a nature reserve
Bottom of slopes
Type of land
Non-groomed itinerary
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
3328OT - CRÊT DE LA NEIGE
CARTE : Hiking in Pays de Gex and the Haute Chaîne du Jura. On sale at the Tourist Office
Updated by
Office de Tourisme du Pays de Gex - 02/12/2025
www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
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Reception complements
▶Preparing for a winter outing in the mountains
Before setting off on a hike, snowshoe or ski tour, there are a few key steps you need to take to ensure your safety and that of your companions.
▶1. Check the weather and conditions
Check the general and local weather conditions (changes during the day, fog, wind, etc.).
Find out about the quality of the snow (powdery, icy, blowing snow, etc.).
Make sure there is no precipitation forecast.
▶2. Prepare your route
Study the approach, the height of the route and the access conditions.
Estimate the journey time and look for possible escape routes.
Use reliable resources: IGN maps, GPS, topographical guides.
▶3. Assess the risks
Seek advice from local professionals: guides, refuge wardens, tourist offices, etc.
Take account of natural hazards (avalanches, fog, slippery terrain, etc.).
▶4. Inform your friends and family
Share your itinerary, departure and return times.
Give the number of participants and their telephone numbers.
Indicate the vehicle(s) you will be using and where you will be parking.
▶5. Check your equipment
-Never go off on your own.
-Use equipment that is suitable for the activity, properly adjusted and in good condition.
-Take along :
-Headlamp
-Complete first aid kit
-Survival blanket
-Mobile phone + external battery
-Water bottle + snacks
-Wear clothing suited to the weather (cold, wind, damp...).
-Appropriate hiking boots, including for children.
-Walking poles recommended for balance and comfort.
▶6. In the event of a problem
In Europe, dial 112, the free emergency number.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
(1) Start: From the car park in the village of Lélex, located at the foot of the Catheline gondola lift.
(2) Go down to the left along the Route du Haut, passing the Dahu and Établi restaurants and the ESF ski school. Take the Col de Crozet road on the left.
(3) A trail climbs up to the left, marked in purple and GR® (red and white). After a paved section, take a dirt path on the left. Climb three switchbacks, then continue straight ahead to an intersection where the slope levels off.
(4) On the left, continue climbing through the woods to Chalet du Ratou.
(5) From the chalet, continue climbing up. Then cut across a track and head for Chalet de la Loge.
(6) Continue climbing on the GR®. Take care when crossing the Astèrs ski slope, then continue through the forest to the Brillonne d'en Haut crossroads.
(7) Turn left, pass a ruin, then begin a short steep climb through a wooded area.
(8) At the end, you will see Combe des Voyettes. Walk along the reservoir, then enter the forest again. Another climb will take you to the Combe du Brulât Frésy.
(9) Continue through increasingly open terrain until you reach the ridges. Follow the ridge line on the right, between mountain pines and karst formations, to finally reach Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura at an altitude of 1,720m.
(10) Admire the exceptional panorama: Reculet to the south, the Alps and Mont Blanc to the east, Haute Chaîne to the north, and below, the village of Lélex. Return via the same route to the starting point.
Animals
No. Dogs strictly forbidden in the Reserve
Data author
