Circular winter loop via the Crête d’Aillon

Park near the start of the Rochettes chairlift in Aillon-le-Jeune.

(S/E) Follow the road south to the Saint-Blaise sign, then start climbing up the sunken path to the left of the small road, before crossing through the hamlet. Head south along the path once you’ve passed the last houses.

(1) Leave the path to head left up the rise and follow a wide curve back towards the Rochettes chairlift. After passing through a small copse, go under the chairlift and climb the steep slope to reach the^GRP® Tour des Bauges trail.

(2) Turn right onto it, following the yellow and red markings towards Morbié; it’s a good, slightly uphill, shaded path. This will take you to the Morbié farm.

(3) Pass above the farm and turn almost 180° to climb up to the Col de la Sciaz, which you’ll reach just after joining the track that descends from Mont Pela.

(4) Walk back up alongside the track and, via a steady climb, reach Mont Pelat.

(5) Descend for a long way northwards, following the ridge, with a few sections through woodland and a few short climbs, until you reach the Pré Condut signpost.

(6) Head down to the left towards Les Ginets along a steep slope through the woods before reaching the Chalets du Mont de la Vierge. Turn left and head towards the hamlet of Les Ginets, which is visible ahead; a few signposts will help you find your way.

(7) Make your way to the resort by crossing the meadows, then follow the ski lift runs to return to the car park at the Aillon-le-Jeune resort (S/E).

This description is for a snowshoe walk and crosses meadows which should be bypassed during the summer months.
Between (S/E) and (2), the route described is designed to avoid crossing the ski runs.
Note: in the hamlet of Saint-Blaise, it is possible to head directly to (2) without going via (1).

5:: At the summit: sweeping views, picnic table.