Snowshoeing and trapper bivouac facing Mont Blanc
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationMont Blanc Massif - France / Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
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AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions7.32 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Experience a unique winter immersion in the heart of the Alps, during a bivouac under the stars facing Mont Blanc. A snowshoe hike will take you to a secluded campsite, nestled in a wild and silent environment, far from the hustle and bustle. This adventure plunges you into a polar atmosphere , guided by a mountain expert who passionately shares their knowledge and ensures your safety and comfort .
For one night, embrace the trapper's lifestyle: controlled self-sufficiency , wildlife discovery , animal tracking, and shared moments around a hot meal. Camping equipment is provided, allowing you to fully enjoy this unique experience without compromising on warmth or tranquility.
In a small group , this adventure offers a true escape and a privileged connection with nature . Ideal for those who dream of an off-the-beaten-path winter, combining authenticity , contemplation , and a spirit of adventure .
The highlights
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A total and authentic immersion in nature
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Expert guidance for a worry-free adventure
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An enriching and intimate experience in a small group of 6 participants
Photos
Sport
Level
Snowshoeing
The expert's opinion
Level :
- Discovery Special, no experience required
- For walkers capable of navigating a good, gently sloping trail.
- 200m to 400m elevation gain
- 2 to 3 hours of walking with a backpack for an overnight stay in complete autonomy
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average daily elevation gain: 200 m
- Average daily descent: 200 m
Management
French
English
Our guides in Chamonix
Qualified professionals with a passion for the mountains, they will guide you safely through the snowy terrain of Chamonix. Expert and attentive, they will share their knowledge of nature, adapt the pace to your group, and ensure your comfort.
Objective : To provide you with a unique experience, combining the discovery of landscapes, local anecdotes and total disconnection.
Conditions of participation :
- Maximum 4 to 6 participants for optimal supervision.
- Children accepted from 12 years old , accompanied by a parent.
These standards guarantee a quality stay .
Program
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Towards the mountain pastures
- Transportation Bus - 00h30 - 10km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a short transfer from Chamonix by public transport, we reach a wild alpine pasture. There's no predetermined location; our guide decides based on the conditions and our preferences. We explore the trails in search of the ideal spot to set up camp. The evening unfolds in a warm and inviting atmosphere: a campfire, attentive listening to the sounds of nature, and then a comfortable night under the stars.
Day 1 -
Back in the valley
- Transportation Bus - 00h30 - 10km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Upon waking, the sun, which we hoped would be shining, greeted us as we emerged from our sleeping bags. After dismantling camp without leaving a trace, we descended peacefully back into the valley. Along the way, we observed signs of local wildlife, evidence of its discreet presence. We returned to Chamonix late in the morning.
Day 2
Note
The indicated times and elevation gains are estimates. They will depend on the final location, chosen based on snow conditions, the group's skill level, and weather conditions. The route may be adapted at any time by the guide, depending on the weather or the technical and physical abilities of the participants.
Required level: Discovery (no experience necessary).
Elevation gain: 200 to 400 m.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours of walking with a bag, for a night in complete autonomy.
Accommodation
Access
The return time is indicative : if you have a train or plane to catch, allow a safety margin.
Go to the starting point
By train 🚆
- Paris → TGV to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet (5h), then TER Mont-Blanc Train (1h05).
- Lyon/Geneva → TER towards Saint-Gervais , then Mont-Blanc Train.
By plane + bus ✈️🚌
- Geneva Airport (GVA) → Direct shuttle (1 hour 15 minutes) or Taxi
By car 🚗
- Paris → A6/A40 (~6h)
- Lyon → A40 (~2h30)
- Geneva → A40 (~1 hour)
Paid parking in Chamonix :
- Grépon parking lot (city centre, near cable car).
- Saint-Michel parking lot (city centre, near shops).
- Mont-Blanc car park (covered, central).
Price details
The price includes
- The stay will be supervised by a mountain guide.
- The picnic and evening meal on Day 1
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Public transport used
- Camping equipment: tent, cold-weather sleeping bag, sleeping mat, stove, cutlery
- Loan of snowshoes, poles, avalanche transceivers, shovels, probes
The price does not include
- The round trip to the meeting point
- Drinks (minimum 2L of water)
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
During the hike, you must have the following documents in your possession:
• Valid identity card or passport.
• Health insurance card.
• Your travel insurance leaflet received upon registration (if you purchased this insurance through our offices) or your personal insurance (contract number + telephone number).
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
🏕️ Bivouac :
- Tent
- extreme cold weather sleeping bag
- Mattress
- Stove + cutlery
Technical equipment :
- Snowshoes
- Sticks
- DVA (avalanche victim detector)
- Shovel + probe
Equipment to bring
⚠️ Importance of choice : Your equipment directly influences the success of your stay.
Weight = key criterion : Find the right compromise between weight and comfort .
👟 Walking shoes :
- Suitable for snowshoes : warm, waterproof, good ankle support .
- New? → Wear them first to break them in .
- Blisters? → Talcum powder on dry feet + shoes in the morning.
🎒 Backpack :
- Minimum volume 60L (allow space for a picnic).
- Snow tip : Protect your belongings with a plastic bag (like a garbage bag) inside the bag.
Bag weight :
- Optimize each item : "Will I use it every day?"
- Tips :
- Pack it down as much as possible.
- Smaller bag = better balance → reduced feeling of weight.
Clothing to bring
🔹 Weather conditions :
Conditions can be very changeable → Opt for thin, layerable garments rather than one thick garment.
Stay dry in all circumstances.
Preferred textiles :
- Avoid cotton (heavy, cold, slow to dry).
- Prefer :
- Synthetic technical textiles.
- Merino wool (warm, quick-drying, odorless).
For the day :
- 1 long-sleeved technical T-shirt .
- 1 fine fleece fur .
- 1 pair of Gore-Tex trousers + 1 pair of synthetic long underwear .
- 1 pair of wool socks .
- 1 Gore-Tex jacket .
- Gloves : 1 pair of fleece gloves + 1 pair of mittens + 1 pair of silk gloves.
- 1 beanie + 1 scarf/neck warmer (Buff) .
- 1 insulated water bottle (1L minimum, ideally 1.5L).
- Cutlery : 1 knife + 1 fork (spork type).
- Accessories : cap, sunglasses (cat. 4) , sunscreen, lip balm.
- 1 pair of telescopic poles .
- Optional : camera, binoculars, etc.
For the entire hike :
- 1 down jacket (or thick fleece).
- 1 spare pair of long underwear .
- Change of clothes (T-shirt, underwear, socks).
- 1 headlamp .
- Personal pharmacy :
- Bandages (of the "second skin" type), compresses, medications (diarrhea, headaches, allergies, etc.).
- Your personal treatment .
- Ultralight toiletries kit (technical towel, toilet paper).
- ID + cash , tissues.
- Gaiters (if trousers do not cover shoes well).
⚠️ Note : The guide has a first aid kit .
