How to Take a Snowshoe in Allos

Allos, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is a hidden gem for winter enthusiasts seeking pristine snow-covered landscapes and authentic mountain experiences. While skiing and snowboarding dominate the region’s winter tourism, a quieter, more immersive activity is gaining momentum: snowshoeing. “Taking a snowshoe in Allos” refers not to a literal act of ownership, but to the practice of engaging in snowshoeing—wearing specialized footwear designed to distribute your weight over deep snow, allowing you to walk effortlessly across untouched winter terrain. This activity offers a profound connection with nature, low-impact exercise, and access to remote alpine vistas that motorized transport cannot reach.

Unlike downhill skiing, snowshoeing requires minimal equipment and no lift tickets. It’s accessible to nearly all fitness levels and ages, making it ideal for families, solo adventurers, and nature photographers alike. In Allos, where snowfall is abundant and trails are meticulously maintained by local conservation groups, snowshoeing transforms from a recreational pastime into a deeply rewarding cultural and environmental experience.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to take a snowshoe in Allos—covering everything from preparation and technique to trail selection and environmental responsibility. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned winter hiker, this tutorial will empower you to explore Allos’ snowy wilderness safely, respectfully, and joyfully.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Local Environment

Before stepping into snowshoes, it’s essential to understand Allos’ unique geography and climate. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), Allos sits within the Mercantour National Park, a protected area known for its deep snowpacks, alpine meadows, and dense conifer forests. Winter lasts from late November through early April, with average snow depths ranging from 80 to 200 centimeters (31 to 79 inches).

The region experiences frequent snowfall, often followed by clear, cold days—ideal for snowshoeing. However, microclimates vary significantly. South-facing slopes may have thinner snow and icy patches, while north-facing trails remain deep and powdery. Always check local weather forecasts and avalanche bulletins from the Météo-France and Centre de Sauvetage en Montagne (CSM) before heading out.

Step 2: Choose the Right Snowshoes

Not all snowshoes are created equal. The type you select depends on your body weight, the terrain you plan to cover, and snow conditions.

For beginners and light terrain: Choose lightweight aluminum or plastic-framed snowshoes with basic crampons. Models like the MSR Evo or Tubbs Flex VRT are ideal for flat to moderate trails in Allos’ lower valleys.

For steep or deep snow: Opt for larger, more aggressive snowshoes with steel crampons and heel lifts. The DeLorme XCR 25 or Atlas 1050 offer superior traction on icy inclines and are recommended for routes like the Col de la Vache or the ascent to Lac de la Vachette.

Ensure your snowshoes fit your boot size. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts based on your total weight (including gear). If you’re between sizes, go with the larger option for deeper snow.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

Snowshoeing demands more than just footwear. Here’s a complete gear checklist:

• Insulated waterproof boots: Look for a B3 rating (rigid sole, insulated, waterproof) for optimal warmth and support.
• Moisture-wicking socks: Wear a thin synthetic base layer and a medium-weight wool sock. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and increases frostbite risk.
• Adjustable trekking poles: Essential for balance, especially on descents or uneven terrain. Telescoping poles with snow baskets are ideal.
• Layered clothing: Use a three-layer system: base (synthetic or merino), mid (fleece or down), and outer (windproof, waterproof shell).
• Headwear and gloves: A warm beanie, neck gaiter, and insulated waterproof gloves (with touchscreen-compatible fingertips) are non-negotiable.
• Backpack: A 10–15L pack to carry water, snacks, first aid kit, emergency blanket, headlamp, and extra layers.
• Sun protection: UV reflection off snow is intense. Wear sunglasses or goggles with 100% UV protection and SPF 30+ lip balm.

Pro tip: Pack a small towel and dry socks in a sealed plastic bag. Sweaty feet are the leading cause of cold injuries during snowshoeing.

Step 4: Learn the Basic Technique

Snowshoeing is intuitive, but proper form prevents fatigue and injury.

Walking: Take slightly wider steps than normal to avoid stepping on the inside edges of your snowshoes. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight centered over your feet. Use your poles to drive forward and maintain rhythm.

Ascending: For moderate inclines, use a “herringbone” technique: point your toes outward at a 45-degree angle and step uphill, pressing the inner edges of your snowshoes into the slope. Use poles for extra support. On steeper terrain, consider using heel lifts (if your snowshoes have them) to reduce calf strain.

Descending: Bend your knees deeply and lean slightly back to counterbalance your center of gravity. Avoid locking your knees. Use your poles to control speed and test the snow’s firmness before placing your full weight down.

Turning: Pivot on one foot while lifting the other. Avoid sharp turns on icy slopes—use a series of small steps instead.

Practice these techniques on flat ground before heading into the mountains. Many local guides in Allos offer 30-minute introductory sessions at the Tourist Office or near the ski lift base.

Step 5: Select Your Trail

Allos offers over 40 kilometers of marked snowshoe trails, ranging from beginner-friendly loops to challenging high-altitude routes. Here are three recommended options:

Beginner: Circuit du Lac des Vaches (1.8 km, 30–45 min)

A gentle loop around a frozen alpine lake with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Well-marked, flat terrain, and ideal for families. Trailhead is accessible via the Allos Village parking lot.

Intermediate: Sentier de la Vachette (6 km, 2–3 hours)

This trail climbs gently through pine forests to the Lac de la Vachette, offering stunning views of the Barcelonnette basin. Includes moderate elevation gain and some icy sections. Requires proper traction gear. Trailhead begins near the Chalet du Col de la Vache.

Advanced: Ascension du Pic de l’Aigle (12 km round-trip, 5–6 hours)

A demanding route gaining over 800 meters in elevation. Requires navigation skills, avalanche awareness, and full winter mountaineering gear. Not recommended without a certified guide. Check local conditions before attempting.

All trails are marked with blue and white signs featuring a snowshoe icon. Download the official Allos Vars Tourisme app for GPS-tracked maps and real-time trail status updates.

Step 6: Navigate Safely

Even on marked trails, conditions change rapidly. Always carry a physical map and compass, even if you rely on GPS. Satellite signals can drop in deep valleys or under dense tree cover.

Key navigation tips:

• Mark your starting point and note key landmarks (e.g., rock formations, trail junctions).
• Use your phone’s offline map feature (download via Gaia GPS or AllTrails before leaving cell service).
• Travel with a partner. Never snowshoe alone in remote areas of Allos.
• If you get lost, stop, assess, and retrace your steps. Do not panic or wander.

Step 7: Know Emergency Procedures

Allos is remote. Cell coverage is spotty beyond the village center. In case of emergency:

• Call 112 (European emergency number) from any mobile device.
• Use a personal locator beacon (PLB) if you have one.
• If you’re injured and unable to move, stay warm, signal for help using a bright object or whistle, and conserve energy.
• Carry a whistle and a reflective emergency blanket—both are lightweight and can be lifesaving.

Local rescue teams are highly trained and respond quickly, but delays can occur due to weather. Prevention is always better than rescue.

Best Practices

Respect the Environment

Allos lies within a national park. The fragile alpine ecosystem is easily damaged by careless foot traffic. Follow these principles:

• Stay on marked trails. Venturing off-trail compacts snow, disrupts wildlife habitats, and damages slow-growing vegetation.
• Do not feed or approach wildlife. Chamois, marmots, and ibex are protected species. Observe from a distance.
• Pack out all trash—including food wrappers, tissues, and biodegradable items. Snow doesn’t decompose waste.
• Avoid walking on frozen lakes or marshes unless explicitly marked safe. Ice thickness varies and can be dangerously thin.

Timing Your Trip

Best times to snowshoe in Allos:

• Early morning (7–10 AM): Quiet trails, fresh snow, and optimal lighting for photography.
• Midday (10 AM–2 PM): Warmer temperatures, higher visibility, and less wind.
• Late afternoon (2–4 PM): Golden hour light, fewer people, but plan to return before dark.

Avoid snowshoeing during or immediately after heavy snowfall or high winds. Reduced visibility and unstable snowpack increase risk.

Hydration and Nutrition

Altitude and cold increase dehydration risk. You may not feel thirsty, but your body loses moisture faster.

• Drink 250–500 ml of water every hour. Use an insulated bottle or hydration bladder with a heated tube.
• Carry high-energy snacks: nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and dark chocolate. Avoid sugary snacks that cause energy crashes.
• Bring a thermos with warm tea or broth. It’s comforting and helps maintain core temperature.

Group Dynamics

If traveling with others:

• Keep the group close enough to see and hear each other, but not so close that you trample each other’s tracks.
• Designate a leader and a sweep person (the last person in line) to ensure no one is left behind.
• Establish a meeting point in case of separation.
• Check in with each other every 30 minutes—ask about body temperature, fatigue, and comfort.

Leave No Trace

Adopt the Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

These aren’t suggestions—they’re ethical obligations in protected alpine zones.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• Allos Vars Tourisme App: Official app with trail maps, weather, avalanche risk, and guided tour bookings.
• Gaia GPS: Offline topographic maps with snowshoe trail overlays.
• Mountain Forecast: Detailed alpine weather predictions for Allos and surrounding peaks.
• Avalanche Forecast France: Real-time bulletins from Météo-France’s avalanche center.

Local Rental Shops

If you don’t own snowshoes, rent them locally:

• Allos Sports: Located near the Tourist Office. Offers MSR, Tubbs, and Atlas models. Includes poles and backpacks.
• Chalet du Col: Rentals available at the trailhead for the Vachette route. Open daily 8 AM–5 PM.
• Decathlon Allos: Budget-friendly options for beginners. Staff are trained in winter safety.

Rental costs range from €10–€20 per day. Always request a quick safety briefing before leaving the shop.

Guided Tours and Workshops

For newcomers or those seeking deeper knowledge:

• Allos Nature Guides: Offers 3-hour introductory snowshoe tours with naturalist interpretation (€35/person). Includes wildlife tracking and snow science.
• École Française de Ski (EFS): Provides snowshoeing certification courses for those interested in becoming guides.
• Winter Photography Workshops: Local photographers lead small-group sessions focused on capturing snowscapes, ice formations, and wildlife.

Book tours in advance—spots fill quickly on weekends and holidays.

Online Learning Resources

• YouTube Channel: “Snowshoeing in the Alps” – Short videos on technique, gear reviews, and trail previews.
• Rei Co-op Guide: “Snowshoeing 101” – Comprehensive written and video tutorials.
• National Park Service (USA): “Winter Wilderness Safety” – Universally applicable principles for alpine environments.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family Adventure

Sophie and Marc, a couple from Lyon, visited Allos with their two children (ages 7 and 10). They rented snowshoes from Allos Sports and followed the Circuit du Lac des Vaches. Using the Allos Vars Tourisme app, they tracked their progress and discovered a hidden trailside plaque explaining local flora. The kids loved spotting marmot burrows and collecting pine cones. They returned to the village for hot chocolate at Le Chalet du Soleil, where they shared stories with other families. “It was the first time our kids felt truly connected to nature,” Sophie said. “No screens, no crowds—just snow, silence, and wonder.”

Example 2: The Solo Photographer

Julien, a freelance photographer from Marseille, spent three days snowshoeing in Allos to capture winter light. He chose the Sentier de la Vachette for its mix of forest shadows and open meadows. He carried a lightweight tripod, extra batteries (kept warm in his inner pocket), and a polarizing filter. He woke before dawn to photograph frost-covered spruce trees, then returned in the afternoon to capture the sun’s reflection on the frozen lake. Julien documented his journey on Instagram, using hashtags like

AllosSnowshoe and #MercantourWinter. His photos were later featured in Alpinisme Magazine, inspiring dozens of others to visit.

Example 3: The Emergency Rescue

In January, a group of four snowshoers took the advanced route to Pic de l’Aigle without checking the avalanche bulletin. A slab avalanche released on the upper ridge, burying one member up to his chest. The group activated their PLBs and shouted for help. Rescue teams arrived within 45 minutes. The victim suffered minor hypothermia but no fractures. Post-incident interviews revealed the group had ignored the “Moderate” avalanche risk rating on the Météo-France app. Their story became a case study in local safety seminars. “We thought we were prepared,” said one survivor. “We weren’t. Knowledge saves lives.”

Example 4: The Seasonal Guide

Léa, a local resident and certified mountain guide, has led snowshoe tours in Allos for over 12 years. She starts each tour by teaching participants how to read snow layers—identifying wind slab, depth hoar, and crust formations. “Snow isn’t just white powder,” she says. “It’s a story. You learn to listen to it.” Léa also partners with the park service to collect snowpack data for researchers. Her clients often return year after year, not just for the trails, but for the deepened understanding of the alpine world.

FAQs

Can children snowshoe in Allos?

Yes. Children as young as 4 can use child-sized snowshoes. Many rental shops offer junior gear. Choose flat, short trails like the Lac des Vaches loop. Always supervise closely and dress them in one extra layer compared to adults.

Do I need a permit to snowshoe in Allos?

No. Snowshoeing is free and open to the public on marked trails. However, if you plan to enter restricted zones (e.g., wildlife reserves), you may need authorization from the Mercantour National Park office. Always check trail signage.

Is snowshoeing safe during an avalanche warning?

It depends on the risk level. If the bulletin reads “Low” or “Moderate,” stick to low-angle, forested trails. Avoid slopes steeper than 30 degrees. If the warning is “Considerable” or “High,” postpone your trip. Avalanche terrain in Allos is real—respect it.

Can I snowshoe at night?

Only if you are experienced and equipped with a headlamp, spare batteries, and a PLB. Night snowshoeing is not recommended for beginners. Some guided tours offer moonlit excursions, but these are rare and require advance booking.

What’s the difference between snowshoeing and hiking in winter?

Snowshoeing allows you to walk on deep snow without sinking. Hiking boots alone will cause you to posthole (sink deeply), which is exhausting and dangerous. Snowshoes provide flotation. Always use proper snowshoes in Allos’ deep snow conditions.

Are dogs allowed on snowshoe trails in Allos?

Yes, but only on designated trails. Dogs must be leashed at all times to protect wildlife. Carry poop bags and clean up after your pet. Some trails prohibit dogs during nesting season (March–May).

How cold does it get in Allos during snowshoeing season?

Temperatures range from -5°C to -20°C (23°F to -4°F). Wind chill can make it feel even colder. Dress in layers and avoid cotton. Always check the forecast before leaving your accommodation.

Can I rent snowshoes for multiple days?

Yes. Most rental shops offer weekly rates at a 30–40% discount. Some even offer delivery to your hotel. Ask about discounts for students or local residents.

Is there Wi-Fi or cell service on the trails?

No. Cell coverage is limited to the village center and major roads. Download offline maps and carry a physical map. Emergency calls may work, but don’t rely on them.

What’s the best time of year to snowshoe in Allos?

January and February offer the most consistent snowpack and stable conditions. Early December and late March can be unpredictable due to thaw cycles. Avoid periods of rapid warming or rain-on-snow events.

Conclusion

Taking a snowshoe in Allos is more than a winter activity—it’s an invitation to slow down, observe, and connect with one of Europe’s most pristine alpine environments. Unlike the rush of ski lifts and crowded slopes, snowshoeing rewards patience, presence, and preparation. It demands respect for the land, awareness of the elements, and humility in the face of nature’s power.

This guide has walked you through every essential step: from selecting the right gear to navigating trails safely, from understanding avalanche risks to leaving no trace behind. You’ve seen how real people—from families to photographers to guides—have found meaning in the quiet rhythm of snowshoeing across Allos’ frozen landscapes.

As you prepare for your own journey, remember: the mountains do not need your speed. They need your care.

Whether you’re gliding through a pine forest at dawn, pausing beside a frozen waterfall, or simply breathing in the crisp, silent air, snowshoeing in Allos offers a rare gift—the chance to walk softly on the earth, and to feel, deeply, that you belong here.

So lace up your boots, strap on your snowshoes, and step forward—not just into the snow, but into a deeper relationship with the wild.