Snowshoeing itinerary: The Squirrel Trail

On this plateau, where the crisp air awakens the senses, amid snow-covered expanses, wooded hills, and open horizons, stop by the Notre-Dame des Grâces Chapel, which, despite the avalanche of 1981, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of the local people.

Description

This loop offers a true taste of the mountains, where the tranquility and grandeur of the plateau invite contemplation.

Additional welcome

Check the weather conditions and avalanche risk before you set out (weather services, mountain rescue services, professionals, tourist office...).
Make sure your gear and clothing are appropriate for the forecast.
Postpone your activity if the weather forecast is poor. Follow safety instructions and do not stray from marked trails in winter.

Environments

• Mountain view
• Mountain location
• Ski resort
• 10 - 20 min walk to bus stop

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 6.5km
• Route type LOOP
• Elevation gain 80m
• Negative gradient 80m
• Daily duration 2:30 a.m.
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Signposted Route 8.
• Tricky passage This route crosses meadows. Without snow, it is impassable.
• Nature of the land Ungroomed trail
• Maximum altitude 1765m

Opening period

Daily from December 15 to April 1.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather

• Subject to snow conditions

Labels

Location

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Documents

• Snowshoeing itinerary: La Trace de l'Ecureuil_Bessans (pdf)

Animals

Pets allowed : Yes

Pets allowed with supplement: No

Out of respect for wildlife, please keep your dog on a lead.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 1/ From the Espace sportif Le Carreley parking lot, follow the road to the oratory, then turn right. The path winds through forest and snow-covered mountain pastures to a bridge near the hamlet of La Goulaz, where you cross the Torrent d'Avérole.
  2/ 0 h 40 - After the bridge, take the right fork through the hamlet of La Goulaz, then continue on the path leading to the Chapelle Notre-Dame des Grâces.
  3/ 1 h 10 - Then carefully cross the road to the Villaron parking lot and continue toward the La Bessanaise vacation center.
  3 1 hr 40 min - From here, cross the road again and take the uphill route toward
  toward Avérole. Cross the bridge over the stream, then return to the oratory before heading back to the Espace sportif Le Carreley parking lot.
  3/ 2 hr 30 min - Espace sportif Le Carreley.