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Ecureuil snowshoe trail
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Description
This easy loop trail runs entirely along the Vattay plateau in the Haute Chaîne du Jura Nature Reserve, through open, wooded countryside that is ideal for a family outing or a peaceful exploration of the great outdoors.
Perfect for a family outing or a first snowshoeing experience. The trail winds gently through the forest before looping back to the plateau. It's the ideal opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and gently ease yourself into winter hiking.
Throughout the route, specific markings guide you along well-trodden paths with little elevation gain, but a wonderful feeling of escape. Walkers are rewarded with beautiful views of the Dôle, the iconic peak of the Swiss Jura.
The start and finish are at the Domaine de la Vattay, where there is an entrance fee. As with any route through a protected natural area, it is essential to respect the regulations in force (no dogs, stay on the marked trails, no unnecessary noise, etc.).
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Date and time
- From 20/12/2025 to 29/03/2026 from 09:00 to 17:00
- From 20/12/2026 to 29/03/2027 from 09:00 to 17:00
Additional information
Contact
Phone : 04 50 28 09 16
Open period
From 20/12 to 29/03 daily between 9 am and 5 pm.
Open when the Domaine de la Vattay is open.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Environments
Forest location
Ski resort
Mountain location
In a nature reserve
Type of land
Groomed trail
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
TRACK MAPS : From the Monts Jura
TRACK MAPS : From the ENJ
3327ET - MOREZ LES ROUSSES
MAP: Hiking in the 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
Report a problem
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: Make your way from the entrance of La Vattay to the ticket control hut.
(2) Head towards the plateau, then take the wide track into the forest.
(3) After about 500m, you will come to a more open area. The trail runs alongside and between the two cross-country ski trails until the next intersection.
(4) Turn left and complete the loop on the other side of the plateau.
(7) At this point, the Écureuil trail joins the Chouette and Gelinotte trails, which come in from the right. The trail that begins the return journey is on the left.
(2) You will then rejoin the outbound trail, which leads you gently to the finish at La Vattay after one last climb.
Animals
No. Dogs are strictly forbidden on the La Vattay cross-country ski area.
Data author
