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Snowshoe trail: from the Fierney gondola to Crêt de la Neige
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Description
Put on your snowshoes and set off to conquer Crêt de la Neige, the iconic peak of the Jura mountains, rising to 1,720 m. The route, winding through forests and sunlit ridges, offers exceptional views of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva and, on the other side, the Valserine Valley.
Crêt de la Neige, the highest peak in the Jura, offers a stunning snowshoeing experience in the heart of a breathtaking alpine landscape. As you climb, your eyes will wander across the majestic peaks of Mont Blanc and the Swiss Alps, the shimmering basin of Lake Geneva, the city of Geneva, and the Salève mountain - along with the wild beauty of the Hautes-Combes du Jura and the dramatic Écluse gorge.
This demanding climb takes place in the mountains, in an environment where the weather can change quickly. Proper preparation and a good knowledge of the terrain are essential.
Please note – 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, closed from December 15 to June 30; you are allowed to cross, but you must stay on the marked trail and not leave it.
Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead.
Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.
This snowshoe hike begins with a ride on the Fierney gondola.
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.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
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
TRACK MAPS: From the ENJ
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 - 06/12/2025
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) From the Fierney cable car station, take the purple-marked trail that winds through the forest just below the Bergers combined lift. Take care when crossing ski runs.
(2) As you approach the summit of Montoiseau, follow the Combe Fournier, which goes around Montoisey and joins the green Anémones trail.
(3) Then join the yellow-marked hiking trail (PR) and enter the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Continue towards Grand Crêt (1,702 m), following the ridge.
(4) When you reach the place called ‘Sous le Crêt’, you will join the GR® (red and white) trail coming from Lélex. Continue along the ridges.
(5) After 1.3 km, you will arrive at Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura mountains.
(6) Return via the same route.
Animals
No. Dogs strictly forbidden in the Nature Reserve
Data author
