When the peaks turn white and nature gently falls asleep under the snow, hiking takes on a whole new dimension. Far from the summer bustle, winter offers a calm, pure, and magical setting for walking, breathing, and marveling.
Here is our selection of the most beautiful hiking trails to explore in winter in France, for a breath of fresh air... and frosted beauty!
1. The Aubrac Plateau (Occitanie / Auvergne)
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Atmosphere: Wild expanse, snow-covered burons, soothing silence
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Level: Easy to moderate
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Why we love it: Its lunar landscapes under the snow, perfect for snowshoeing or Nordic walking.
2. Lac Blanc on snowshoes (Vosges)
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Access: From Orbey or Lac Blanc ski resort
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Level: Intermediate
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The plus: A spectacular view of the Alsace valley and the frosted Vosges peaks.
3. The Cirque de Gavarnie (Hautes-Pyrénées)
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UNESCO listed
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Level: Easy (even for families)
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To see: The great frozen waterfall, the breathtaking natural walls, and ibexes strolling around.
4. Fontainebleau Forest (Île-de-France)
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Level: Easy to moderate
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Atmosphere: Mystical and magical under a thin layer of snow
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Perfect for: A winter escape just 1 hour from Paris.
5. The Vercors ridges (Isère / Drôme)
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Level: Strenuous (watch out for wind and visibility)
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Assets: Spectacular landscapes, snow-covered cliffs, feeling of being at the end of the world
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To bring: Snowshoes, warm clothing, and good physical condition.
Our tips for safe winter hiking:
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Check the weather and snow conditions
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Bring appropriate equipment: snowshoes, poles, thermal clothing, headlamp
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Inform someone of your itinerary
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And most importantly... enjoy the moment!
Ready to put on your snowshoes?
Winter is a magical season to explore the trails differently.
Find all the necessary equipment on baroudeurcamp.com to be well prepared.
This winter, go for a walk in the snow... and let yourself be surprised.