Snowshoeing itinerary: Les Herbiers

Between forest and stream, the Herbiers loop takes you into the Charmaix Valley. The trail follows the stream—peaceful in winter but sometimes raging—before reaching the foot of the hamlet of Les Herbiers. The descent is then smooth and gentle, leading to the Valfréjus for a winter interlude of untamed nature and serenity.

Additional welcome

Check the weather conditions and avalanche risk before you set out (weather services, mountain rescue services, professionals, tourist office...).
Make sure your gear and clothing are appropriate for the forecast.
Postpone your activity if the weather forecast is poor. Follow safety instructions and do not stray from marked trails in winter.

Environments

• Forest location
• Mountain view
• Mountain location
• Close to a public transportation
• Ski resort
• Bus stop < 500 m
• 20 - 30 min from a train station by car
• Less than a 10-minute walk from a bus stop

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 3.3 km
• Route type LOOP
• Elevation gain 160m
• Negative gradient 160m
• Daily duration 2:00 a.m.
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Marked itinerary #2
• Tricky passage On the section between Le Charmaix and Les Herbiers, in icy conditions, be sure to bring your snowshoes or crampons for your shoes and poles.
• Nature of the land Ungroomed trail
• Maximum altitude 1655m

Opening period

Daily from December 15 to April 1.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather

• Subject to snow conditions

Location

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Documents

• Snowshoeing itinerary: Les Herbiers–Valfréjus (pdf)

Animals

Pets allowed : Yes

Pets allowed with supplement: No

Out of respect for wildlife, please keep your dog on a lead.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 1/ The route starts at the Valfréjus Office. Cross the resort center, then take the path to the right of Parking Lot 1.
  Follow the wide trail to the Ruisseau du Charmaix.
  2/ 0 h 15 - At the stream, head toward Les Herbiers. The route continues along a pleasant footpath alongside the Ruisseau du Charmaix.
  3/ 1 hr 05 min - At the Les Herbiers crossroads, follow signs for Plan Monin. Walk up a few meters on the wide track, then take the left fork to follow a path that joins the downhill ski slope.
  4/ 1 hr 20 min - At the junction with the downhill ski slope, walk carefully along it, then leave the edge of the slope to reach the parking lots above the resort. Take the main road down to the heart of Valfréjus.
  5/ 2 hrs - Valfréjus Office.