With family or friends, take a deep breath of fresh air during a hike on the heights of Annecy. Discover with our guide all the facets of snowshoeing and take a meal in one of the best savoyard restaurants in the ski resort.
Snowshoe walking means moving across snow with snowshoes fixed under your boots. Their wide surface spreads your weight and reduces how much you sink into fresh powder. This simple activity opens up access to winter trails, forests and mountain areas that are much harder to explore in regular shoes.
Snowshoe walking differs from a more athletic snowshoe hike because the pace is gentler, the outing is usually shorter and the elevation gain is more limited. A snowshoe hike may focus on effort or distance, while a scenic snowshoe walk is all about discovering the surroundings, enjoying the views and walking in comfort.
The level of difficulty always depends on the chosen snowshoe route. An activity described as suitable for everyone still depends on health, snow conditions and the requirements listed on the activity sheet. A beginner can start on an easy route with little incline and a suitable pace.
Around Annecy, the proximity of the lake, forest and mountains offers several settings for a winter outing. Depending on the location and weather conditions, a snowshoe walk may cross wooded areas, reach a viewpoint or follow a snowshoe trail in a snowy landscape.
The Lake Annecy area is a practical starting point for planning a winter activity during a stay or a mountain weekend. Snowshoe outings are available in Haute-Savoie, especially around Annecy. Each snowshoe route still has its own distance, altitude and access constraints.
Annecy Aventure selects outdoor activities focused on discovery and respect for the environment. Its 100% nature, motor-free approach reduces disturbance during the outing. This environmental commitment fits into a sustainable tourism mindset: move at your own pace, take in the snowy scenery and limit your impact on the areas you cross!
Snowshoe walks suit a range of needs, as long as you choose the right difficulty level. Families usually look for an easy route, a duration that works for children and regular breaks. Couples may prefer a calm nature outing. Groups of friends may go for a more energetic route or a friendly guided outing.
A family outing should be chosen according to the minimum age accepted, the children’s walking ability and the stated elevation gain. These criteria help avoid early fatigue and stop a family walk from feeling too demanding.
With friends, the least experienced walker should set the reference level so the group stays well matched. The aim is not to struggle through the outing, but to take time to discover the surroundings together and enjoy a good moment as a group.
A beginner level suits someone who can walk on gently sloping snowy ground at a moderate pace. An easy level usually means a short or low-demand route, although fresh snow increases the effort. A moderate level calls for better endurance, especially when the slope, distance or duration increases.
Annecy Aventure therefore offers a private snowshoe walk with a guide, so you can enjoy the experience with an expert who can both advise you and share insights about this activity, as well as the wildlife and flora around you. A moment away from the clock, leaving you with memories to take home.
The right choice starts with clear information. Check the total duration, distance, elevation gain, required fitness level and meeting point. The price should be compared with what is included: equipment hire, guide presence, time-slot organisation or additional services.
The level shows the expected effort and the abilities needed.
The duration includes the walk and, depending on the setup, explanations or breaks.
The distance alone does not measure difficulty: slope and snow quality change the effort required.
The elevation gain refers to the total altitude difference covered during the climb or descent.
Timings affect light, temperature and slot availability.
Weather can change the route, delay the outing or lead to cancellation to keep everyone safe.
Annecy Aventure brings together winter activities that can be booked around Annecy. We offer formats focused on discovery, group spirit and a nature-based experience. If you need help, our team is fully available by phone, Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm, as well as on Saturday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, to answer all your questions about information and bookings!
“The guides were fantastic, both for the snowshoe activity and for the rest of the experience.” - Clelia Grassot, customer review, 5 out of 5
Warm clothing in several layers helps you manage the changes between effort and breaks. Bring high-cut hiking boots or après-ski boots that hold the foot well, plus gloves, a hat and sunglasses. Poles also improve balance on uneven sections.
Snow reflects light strongly, even when the sky looks overcast. Sunscreen and water complete your kit. Comfort also depends on suitable socks and clothing that stays dry while you walk.
A guide knows the terrain, adjusts the pace and shares practical tips for moving well on snow. Professional supervision gives beginners and families a clear point of reference. It does not remove the unpredictability of the mountains, but it makes decisions easier when snow conditions or weather change.