The Squirrel Route from La Vattay

(S/E) Continue on the left, heading north, and follow the purple markers and signs for "Sentier raquettes l’Écureuil" (Squirrel Snowshoe Trail). You will arrive at the control hut where the ski patrollers will ask you to pay a fee.

(1) Continue straight ahead towards the forest. This section is in the woods until you reach the plateau.

(2) Once you reach the plateau, you will be treated to a beautiful view of the summit of La Dole. Continue straight ahead along the cross-country ski trails on the snowshoe trail and cross the plateau to the left until you reach a fork.

(3) Here you will find several snowshoe trails. Stay on the trail and pass along the edge of the forest to rejoin the plateau. Pass by the Lécherolle farm, leaving the trail and returning to the junction you passed on the way there.

(2) Leave the plateau and turn right to return to the starting point (S/E).

Open from 1 December to 30 March - subject to the opening of the Vattay Nordic Centre

The Vattay car parks are located on the N5. There are four along the road.

Access to the Vattay area is subject to a charge. Tickets can be purchased on site or via the following link: https://skipass.paysdegex-montsjura.com/fr/
The trail is located in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. The specific regulations for this area can be found at: https://www.rnn-hautechainedujura.fr/reglementation/interdits-en-rnn/

Dogs are not permitted on this route.

Please be careful when crossing cross-country ski trails.

Preparation before setting off:

1. Weather
- Check the general and local weather forecast.
- Find out about snow quality and changes in conditions depending on sunshine (icy, powdery, etc.).
- Check that no precipitation is forecast.

2. Route
- Find out about the approach and the altitude of the route.
- Check the travel time and escape options.
- Use resources such as IGN maps, GPS, and guidebooks.

3. Risk assessment
- Ask mountain professionals (guides, mountain huts, lodges) about possible risks.

4. Inform a friend or family member
- Tell a friend or family member about your plans.
- Provide your planned departure and return times.
- Provide the number of participants and their telephone numbers.
- Specify the vehicle(s) and parking location.

Equipment and safety:
- Use equipment that is suitable for the activity, properly adjusted and in good condition.
- Bring a headlamp, a complete first aid kit, a survival blanket, etc.
- Wear clothing suitable for the season and conditions (cold, hot, wet, etc.).
- Wear hiking boots suitable for the terrain (even for children!).
- Use hiking poles (useful for stability and to relieve pressure on the joints).
- Bring a mobile phone and a spare battery.
- Take a bottle of water or a flask and something to eat.

In case of an emergency:
- Emergency number (European): 112.

The Vattay Nordic Centre is an area where you can go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. When the area is closed, it is forbidden to come and do other activities as it is a quiet zone.

Several services are available on site: restaurant, ski schools, equipment hire, first aid, toilets and changing rooms.