The Annecy area brings together everything needed for snowshoe hiking: reliable snow from December to March, quick access from town (15 to 45 minutes’ drive), and a mix of mountain areas with striking views over the lake and the Alps.
Unlike alpine skiing, snowshoeing needs no technical background. You move at your own pace, out in the fresh air, on marked trails or off-piste with a guide. It is also a great shared activity, ideal for team bonding during corporate events or winter incentive days.
Open to everyone: children from around 6–7 years old, adults with no special fitness requirement
Quiet immersion in protected areas, away from the crowds
Opportunities to spot winter wildlife (chamois, animal tracks)
Moderate effort that can be adjusted to the elevation gain
Simple kit that is easy to hire or borrow locally
The mountain areas around Annecy offer a wide choice of routes, from easy plateaus to scenic ridgelines. Here is a selection of must-try trails to discover the area in winter.
Just 20 minutes from Annecy, Semnoz is the most accessible spot for a first snowshoe outing. The plateau has waymarked loops lasting 1 to 3 hours, with open views over the lake and the Bauges massif. Starting from the Puisots car park gives easy access to the Crêt de Châtillon (1699 m) for a 360° panorama.
Difficulty: easy to moderate • Elevation gain: 150 to 300 m • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
A major site of the French Resistance, the Glières Plateau offers a remarkable historic and natural setting. Waymarked routes weave between fir forests and snowy clearings. The national monument and mountain chalets line this moving route.
Difficulty: easy • Elevation gain: 100 to 200 m • Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
For more experienced hikers, starting from Col de la Forclaz opens the door to wilder routes in the Bauges. The climb towards Pointe de la Beccaz or the Roc des Boeufs area brings sweeping views down over Lake Annecy. These routes call for a good level of fitness and, ideally, the support of a guide.
Difficulty: moderate to hard • Elevation gain: 400 to 700 m • Duration: 3 to 5 hours
The Aravis massif, accessible from La Clusaz or Le Grand-Bornand, offers snowshoe hikes in an authentic alpine setting. Routes around Col de la Croix Fry or the Beauregard plateau combine physical effort with memorable views.
Difficulty: moderate • Elevation gain: 300 to 500 m • Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
“Snowshoeing gives you a new way to rediscover the familiar trails of hiking in Annecy, in the soft silence of winter.”
A successful snowshoe trip needs just a little preparation, especially in the mountains where conditions can change quickly.
Snowshoes suited to your weight and the terrain (hire available in Annecy, at Semnoz and in La Clusaz)
Walking poles for balance and to take pressure off the knees
Waterproof hiking boots that are warm and supportive
Technical clothing worn in layers (thermal base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket)
Sunglasses and sunscreen (snow glare)
Backpack with water, energy snacks and a survival blanket
Before you set off, check the weather and the avalanche bulletin (especially off marked trails). Let someone know your route and expected return time. If in doubt, choose a guided outing with a professional who knows the terrain and carries safety equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe).
Apps such as IGN Rando or Outdooractive let you download GPS tracks and follow your progress in real time.
For a guided and rewarding experience, organised outings bring plenty of benefits: improved safety, access to hidden spots, learning about winter flora and fauna, and a pace that adapts to the group.
Snowshoe hikes are a perfect winter team-building activity. They encourage togetherness in a calm natural setting, far from the pace of everyday life. Several formats are available: half-day discovery trips, full-day outings with lunch in a mountain refuge, or evening trips under the stars with a Savoyard meal.
These outings can include fun challenges (navigation, igloo building, team tasks) to boost group dynamics. Led by qualified guides, they stay safe and can be tailored to the group’s level.
For a company seminar, snowshoeing fits neatly into a wider programme combining meetings and outdoor activities. Annecy and the surrounding area offer everything you need: seminar rooms, accommodation, restaurants and a network of providers specialising in responsible events.
Turnkey packages usually include transfers, kit hire, professional guidance and catering, with one simple invoice. The local commitment to eco-responsibility helps deliver low-impact events that match a company’s CSR values.
To explore more options for winter hiking in Annecy or the Mont Veyrier trails in winter, take a look at our dedicated guides.
The best season runs from December to March, with the most reliable snow usually between January and February. Semnoz and the Glières are often snow-covered from early December, while the higher massifs (Aravis, Bauges) can keep snow into April depending on the year.
Morning outings often bring the best conditions: firmer snow that makes progress easier, soft light and fewer people on the trails. Full-moon night hikes create a magical atmosphere and make a memorable group experience.