Snowshoe trail - Petit Châtel circuit

The trailhead is located at the end of Route du Petit-Châtel, at the Tenne curve. From there, it climbs gently up the mountainside through the forest. After two curves, the trail leads to the junction of the Petit-Châtel and Barbossine chairlifts. Downhill Loop Option: Below the chairlifts, turn left toward Flammet (Chalet de Théo). The route continues through a mix of forest and alpine pastures to the Col du Saix, where you can admire the panoramic view of the Abondance Valley. Return along the same path to reach the Flammet chalets. At the fork, continue to the right toward Le Ryz: pass several farms and a wayside shrine, then take the steep but short descent that leads back to the road. Follow the road until you reach your starting point. More experienced hikers can extend the hike with a more challenging variant, the Amont loop: At the chairlift, turn left, then 100 meters further on, turn right onto the path ascending toward Le Mouet. Continue to the first hairpin turn; turn left immediately to reach the alpine pastures, where the view opens up. The route continues through a mix of forest and alpine pastures and then joins the trail. Continue to the Col du Saix, where you can admire the panoramic view of the Abondance Valley. From the pass, you can join the trail to La Chapelle d’Abondance (return to Châtel via shuttle bus line 21). The descent takes you through the forest to the Flammet chalets. At the fork, continue to the right toward Le Ryz: pass several farms and a wayside shrine, then take the steep but short descent that leads to the road. Follow the road until you reach your starting point. To return to the starting point: • By car: Take the Petit-Châtel road to Barbossine (paid parking) • By shuttle (across from the church; take the shuttle toward Petit-Châtel), get off at Barbossine or Tenne • Alternative route without the climb via the Petit Châtel chairlift (pedestrian fare): 3,8 km, 1 hour, and 180 m elevation gain. Safety and rules of good practice: - All routes are undertaken at the hiker's own risk, as they are not supervised. - Before setting off, make sure you are aware of the weather conditions and the risk of avalanches, and remember to bring warm, waterproof clothing. Mountain weather changes very quickly. A high avalanche risk means that trails are closed. - Choose a route suited to your level and physical condition. - Follow the signposting instructions. - Do not stray from the marked routes. - Tell someone close to you about your outing and the route you have chosen. - Never hike alone. - Don't leave too late in the afternoon to make sure you're back before dark. - Do not use the cross-country or downhill ski runs. Crossing the pistes is only permitted on marked crossings. - Take plenty of food and water with you. Mountain sports require a lot of energy. Mountain inns and high-altitude restaurants exist on certain routes. Equipment required : - A hat - Gloves - Sunglasses - Poles - Mountain boots In the bag : - Warm clothing - Hot drinks and snacks - Mobile phone - First-aid kit - Sun cream.