Updated on 24/09/2026
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.
Even on an easy route, a snowshoe hike requires some preparation. In the mountains, conditions can change rapidly. Checking a few things before you set off will ensure you get the most out of your outing.
The first essential item is, of course, a pair of snowshoes suited to your body type.
Poles also make walking easier. They improve your balance and provide extra support on ascents and descents.
You should also bring:
High-top, waterproof hiking boots;
Warm, breathable clothing;
A waterproof jacket;
Gloves and a hat;
Sunglasses;
Sun cream;
Water and a few snacks.
The three-layer system is particularly practical. It allows you to easily adjust your outfit whilst you’re active.
Sunshine at the start of your hike does not guarantee the same conditions a few hours later. Before setting off, be sure to check the weather forecast for Méribel.
Also check the snow conditions and the state of the trails before you set off. Following heavy snowfall, some trails may become more difficult to access and present a risk of avalanches. Check with the Méribel Tourist Office for information on conditions and which trails are open.
Finally, plan your route to suit the length of daylight. In winter, night falls quickly in the mountains.
Stay on authorised routes and follow the signposting. Do not set off on a route when conditions are unsuitable.
Also, let a friend or family member know your route when you set off on a long hike. Keep your mobile phone charged, take enough water with you, and carry a survival kit.
In protected areas, follow local rules. Wildlife needs to be able to retain its quiet areas during winter. Therefore, avoid approaching animals. Do not leave any rubbish behind and stay on the marked paths.
You don’t need to buy your own equipment to try snowshoeing. Several sports shops in Méribel and Méribel-Mottaret offer equipment for hire. This means you can pick up suitable snowshoes and poles before setting off.
Remember to book your equipment in advance during the busiest periods. It will save you time when you arrive.
Are you new to snowshoeing? Would you like to explore routes beyond those you already know? A mountain guide can accompany you.
Mountain guides know the routes and the specific features of the area. They can tailor a snowshoe outing to the group’s ability. The duration, elevation gain and pace are therefore chosen to suit the participants.
Having a guide also helps you gain a better understanding of the mountains. Your guide can teach you how to spot animal tracks, recognise certain landscapes or discover the valley’s natural heritage.
Hiking also offers a chance to discover the mountains from a different perspective. Some guided outings focus on exploring the nature, wildlife or landscapes of the Vanoise National Park and its surroundings.
Other experiences may take place at the end of the day or after dark, depending on the programmes on offer during your stay. The atmosphere then changes completely. The tranquillity, the snow and the light create an experience very different from a daytime hike.
Prices depend on the package chosen, the duration and the time of year. Some ski schools offer group outings lasting half a day or a full day.
We recommend checking the prices before your trip, or directly on site depending on the time of year. This will allow you to find out which slots are available and book the package best suited to your group.
For a more personalised experience, you can also book a private session. The itinerary can then be tailored to your expectations and ability level.
Snowshoeing can easily be incorporated into a holiday dedicated to winter sports. A few hours’ outing leaves plenty of time to enjoy the other activities on offer in the valley.
Some areas are accessible to pedestrians. This means you can head up to higher altitudes without putting on your skis.
The Méribel and 3 Vallées pedestrian pass gives you access to several ski lifts open to pedestrians. This allows you to reach different high-altitude areas and enjoy the panoramic views. It’s also a handy way to meet up with friends and family who’ve gone skiing or to organise a day out combining several activities.
A day’s skiing can easily be rounded off with a snowshoe walk. After enjoying the slopes in the morning, set off on a hike at the end of the day and discover Méribel’s landscapes in a different light.
This combination allows you to enjoy a variety of activities throughout the day. After a few hours’ skiing on the slopes, enjoy the tranquillity of the snow-covered trails on a snowshoe hike.
Winter in the mountains isn’t just about skiing and snowshoeing. Méribel offers plenty of other activities:
🛷 Sledding is a fun option to enjoy with the family.
⛸️ The ice rink lets you extend your day in a different atmosphere.
After all that exertion, you can also opt for a more relaxing activity. It’s a great way to unwind before setting off to explore the mountains again the next day.
A snowshoe outing requires a bit of planning. The time of year, accommodation, transport and local conditions are all factors you’ll need to consider before you set off.
The winter season generally runs from December until spring, depending on snow cover and the opening of the various areas:
The height of winter often offers snow-covered landscapes.
As spring approaches, the days get longer, leaving more time to enjoy the trails.
In any case, weather conditions remain the deciding factor. Check the weather forecast and resort information before each outing.
Choosing your accommodation wisely can make organising your hikes easier and allow you to reach different trails quickly.
Méribel Centre is a convenient starting point for several walks, particularly in the Altiport area. It is also possible to reach Les Allues on snowshoes from Méribel Centre, for an outing that allows you to discover the valley’s varied landscapes.
Méribel-Mottaret, meanwhile, offers access to the Lac de Tuéda area and several other routes.
The various neighbourhoods of Méribel are served by shuttle buses and linked to the ski lifts. This allows you to get around the resort and reach different starting points.
Before booking your holiday, find out where to stay in Méribel. Choose your accommodation based on the activities you’ve planned and the areas you’d like to explore.
You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and mountain huts where you can stop for a break during or after your hike.
Méribel and Méribel-Mottaret are easily accessible from several major French and European cities, by car, train or plane.
From Lyon, it takes around 2 hours 30 minutes by car; 2 hours from Grenoble; 1 hour 30 minutes from Chambéry; and 1 hour from Albertville. Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains railway station also provides easy access to the resort.
From Paris, the train stops at Moûtiers before continuing on to Méribel. The airports in Lyon, Geneva, Chambéry and Grenoble also offer transport options from France and abroad.
Once there, shuttle buses and local transport make it easy to get around between the different areas.
To plan your journey, check out our guide on how to get to Méribel from major cities.
Would you like to get a glimpse of the mountains before heading out? Check out the webcams in Méribel and the 3 Vallées to see the conditions in various parts of the ski area.
They complement the weather forecasts and give you an insight into the conditions on the ground. Snow cover, visibility or weather: this provides you with useful information to help you plan your day.
Snowshoeing in Méribel offers a wonderful way to experience the mountains in a different light, at your own pace along snow-covered trails amidst the valley’s scenery. Whether with family or friends, choose your route, get your kit ready and set off to explore the winter landscapes of the 3 Vallées.