Snowshoeing itinerary: Les Essarts

Let yourself be tempted by the Essarts Loop, a beautiful snowshoe hike through snow-covered forests offering panoramic views of the Maurienne Valley.

Description

Along the way, don’t miss the Notre-Dame du Charmaix chapel, which has stood on the cliffside since the 15th century. Its black Virgin is said to watch over those who pass beneath her benevolent gaze... A place steeped in history and mystery, to be discovered to the quiet rhythm of your footsteps in the snow.

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
• Ski resort
• 20 - 30 min from a train station by car
• Less than a 10-minute walk from a bus stop

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 4.9 km
• Route type LOOP
• Elevation gain 270m
• Negative gradient 270m
• Daily duration 02h45
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Signposted Route No. 3
• Nature of the land Ungroomed trail
• Maximum altitude 1740m

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 Essarts_Valfréjus (pdf)

Animals

Pets allowed : Yes

Pets allowed with supplement: No

Out of respect for wildlife and skiers, please keep your dog on a leash.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 1/ From the Valfréjus Office, start the hike by heading toward the parking lots and gradually away from the resort, in the direction of Modane. Then turn left onto a wide trail that leads to Le Cugnet.
  2/ 0 h 10 - At the Le Cugnet junction, continue toward Lacet 2, then carefully cross the road before climbing up to the next hairpin, where you’ll find the trail leading to Rieu Sec.
  3/ 1 h 20 - From Rieu Sec, follow the route to Mont Rond, then continue on to reach Le Grand Vallon via Le Seuil.
  4/ 1 hr 45 min - Once in Le Grand Vallon, head toward Valfréjus reach the Pont du Seuil. Cross the downhill ski slopes above the Charmasson chairlift for a few hundred meters, then turn right into the forest.
  5/ 2 hr 05 min - At the entrance to the forest, go straight on to reach La Ramoure, then take the path down to Petit Arrondaz.
  6/ 2 hrs 30 mins - At this crossroads, turn right toward the house, follow the path to the next intersection, go back up the road, and then turn right to take the stairs. These lead directly to the Valfréjus area.
  7/ 2 hrs 45 mins - Valfréjus Office.