Round trip
in Mijoux

La Gelinotte snowshoe trail

Get some fresh air on your way to the Gélinotte viewpoint, an iconic viewpoint on the Vattay plateau. An easy round trip through peaceful wooded surroundings to the highest point.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

(1) Start: From the starting point at the Domaine de la Vattay, follow the log barriers to the control chalet.

(2) Head towards the plateau, then enter the forest on a wide track.

(3) After about 500 m, you will come to a more open area. The route runs alongside and between the two cross-country ski trails until the next intersection.

(4) Keep to the right and continue along the path on the right of the plateau with a view of La Dôle. The trail varies between forest edges and clearings.

(5) At the intersection, continue straight ahead, anticipating the slope that will become steeper and steeper towards the summit. There is then about 90 m of elevation gain to climb over 1.3 km to enjoy a magnificent view of Lake Geneva, the Alps, and Mont Blanc.

(6) Take a break to admire the panorama before descending the same path to the previous intersection where the slope becomes gentler. The return journey follows the same path to the foot of the descent. Take care when crossing the ski slopes so as not to disturb the skiers.

(5) At the intersection, turn right to cross to the other side of the plateau and begin the return journey at the edge of the forest. This section offers a different view of the plateau, with a view of the Jura Mountains and, in particular, the Col de la Faucille in the foreground.

(7) The route joins the return leg of the Écureuil walk and continues back.

(2) You will then rejoin the outward trail, which leads gently to the finish at La Vattay after one last climb.

Itinerary details

Mijoux
Round trip
Marked
Groomed trail
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Pets are not allowed
From 20/12/2025 to 29/03/2026 daily between 9 am and 5 pm.Open when the Domaine de la Vattay is open.Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Description

A route for lovers of spectacular views! After crossing through forest, the trail climbs gently towards the high mountain pastures. At the viewpoint, the reward is magnificent: panoramic views of Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range.

The route runs through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. To preserve this exceptional site, please stay on the marked trails, keep noise to a minimum and respect the regulations (no dogs, protected sensitive areas).
Free car parkCar parkPublic WCWinter sportsSnowshoe itinerary
DifficultyMediumDuration04h30Elevation252 D- / 252 D+Distance8.8 kmAltitude Max.1409 m
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