Updated on 23/09/2026
Fancy discovering Méribel in a different way this winter?
Snowshoeing lets you explore the snow-covered landscapes at your own pace. Around Lake Tuéda, in the forests or on the hills above the valley, there are plenty of routes to choose from. Whether with family or friends, put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the mountains.
Snowshoeing in Méribel offers a different way to enjoy the mountains in winter. Far from the hustle and bustle of the slopes, you’ll make your way through snow-covered landscapes. You’ll also discover unspoilt natural areas.
Méribel lies at the heart of the 3 Vallées, in the French Alps. This location offers a wealth of opportunities for mountain activities.
In winter, skiing remains a must. But the valley can also be explored on foot and on snowshoes. Several trails lead to forests, viewpoints or wilder areas. This means you can alternate between days of skiing and snowshoe outings during your stay.
A snowshoe walk in Méribel takes you through a wide variety of landscapes.
Some routes wind their way through the fir trees. Others lead to open valleys and offer unobstructed views of the peaks. You can also walk near Lake Tuéda or head up into the hills.
The snow completely transforms these landscapes. The paths you take in summer take on a whole new look.
This diversity means you can experience a different atmosphere on each outing. One walk might be devoted to exploring the forest, whilst another might take you to a more alpine panorama.
Snowshoeing does not necessarily require extensive mountain experience.
Several trails are suitable for families and those trying the activity for the first time. You simply need to choose a route suited to your ability and the conditions on the day. Méribel also has facilities that make getting around easier. In particular, shuttle buses provide access to different areas of the resort.
Families can therefore plan a walk lasting a few hours without having to devote their whole day to the activity.
Méribel offers several routes for exploring the valley on foot in winter. The choice depends on your ability, your fitness level and how much time you have. Before setting off, check the map of winter walking trails. Weather conditions may also affect the accessibility of certain paths.
The Plan de Tuéda nature reserve is an ideal spot for a first winter hike. Located in Méribel-Mottaret, it stretches around Lake Tuéda. The area offers the chance to explore an unspoilt environment, surrounded by mountain peaks and Swiss stone pines.
The walk around the lake is very easy. It is therefore particularly suitable for families and those who wish to take a leisurely stroll.
In winter, the landscape changes completely. The lake and the surrounding hills are covered in snow. The area then becomes ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Take the time to observe your surroundings. The reserve is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna that it is important to preserve.
Fancy a longer walk? The Plan des Mains area allows you to gradually gain altitude. This hike offers a different atmosphere to that of Lake Tuéda. The route passes through more open landscapes and offers beautiful views of the Méribel mountains.
It’s a more demanding hike, so you’ll need to bring suitable kit and take your fitness level into account.
Once you arrive in the Plan des Mains area, you can take a break before continuing your exploration of the mountains.
Walkers looking for a more strenuous challenge may wish to head for the Col de la Lune area. The ascent requires a higher level of fitness. The elevation gain and the snow make the walk more demanding than a stroll on flat ground. As you climb, the views gradually open up to reveal the surrounding peaks.
For this type of route, always check the conditions before setting off. A mountain guide can also advise you on a suitable route.
For a more challenging walk, head for the hills above Méribel-Mottaret. The Chemin du Vallon is a signposted route suitable for walkers looking for a more strenuous hike. It starts in the Plan Ravet area and takes you through the heart of the snow-covered landscape.
Part of the route involves a steeper climb. This hike therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Depending on conditions and lift operations, it is possible to combine walking with the use of the ski lifts. A climb up to Mont Vallon also offers a remarkable panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
For a hike accessible from Méribel Centre, the Altiport area also offers several walking options.
The trails allow you to explore the snow-covered landscapes around the resort and enjoy a quieter setting, close to the slopes. Depending on conditions, various routes can be suggested to suit the desired duration and the hikers’ ability.
Même sur un itinéraire facile, une randonnée en raquettes se prépare. En montagne, les conditions peuvent évoluer rapidement. Quelques vérifications avant le départ vous permettront de profiter pleinement de votre sortie.
Le premier élément indispensable reste bien sûr une paire de raquettes à neige adaptée à votre morphologie.
Des bâtons facilitent aussi la marche. Ils améliorent l’équilibre et apportent un appui supplémentaire pendant les montées et les descentes.
Prévoyez également :
Des chaussures de randonnée montantes et imperméables ;
Des vêtements chauds et respirants ;
Une veste imperméable ;
Des gants et un bonnet ;
Des lunettes de soleil ;
De la crème solaire ;
De l’eau et quelques encas.
Le système des trois couches reste particulièrement pratique. Il permet d’ajuster facilement votre tenue pendant l’effort.
Le soleil au départ ne garantit pas les mêmes conditions quelques heures plus tard. Avant votre randonnée, pensez donc à vérifier la météo à Méribel.
Regardez également les conditions d’enneigement et l’état des itinéraires avant votre départ. Après de fortes chutes de neige, certains chemins peuvent devenir plus difficiles d’accès et présenter des risques d’avalanches. Renseignez-vous sur les conditions et l’ouverture des sentiers auprès de l’Office de Tourisme de Méribel.
Enfin, adaptez votre parcours à la durée du jour. En hiver, la nuit arrive vite en montagne.
Restez sur les itinéraires autorisés et suivez le balisage en place. Ne vous engagez pas sur un parcours lorsque les conditions ne sont pas adaptées.
Prévenez également un proche de votre itinéraire lorsque vous partez pour une longue randonnée. Gardez votre téléphone chargé, emportez suffisamment d’eau ainsi qu’un kit de survie.
Dans les espaces protégés, respectez les règles locales. La faune doit pouvoir conserver ses zones de tranquillité pendant l’hiver. Évitez donc de vous approcher des animaux. Ne laissez aucun déchet derrière vous et restez sur les chemins indiqués.
Vous n’avez pas besoin d’acheter votre équipement pour découvrir les raquettes. Plusieurs magasins de sport de Méribel et Méribel-Mottaret proposent du matériel à la location. Vous pouvez ainsi récupérer des raquettes et des bâtons adaptés avant votre sortie.
Pensez à réserver votre équipement pendant les périodes les plus fréquentées. Vous gagnerez du temps une fois sur place.