Circuit de la Chouette à la Vattay

Departure from the car park at the Vattay Nordic Centre.

(S/E) Take the path behind the Nordic Centre building and continue on the left until you reach the small hut. Follow the purple markers and the signs for "Sentier raquettes la Chouette" (La Chouette snowshoe trail). Continue to the control hut.

(1) At the control hut, the ski patrollers will ask for your pass. From this point, continue straight ahead towards the forest. This section is in the woods until you reach the plateau.

(2) A beautiful view of the summit of La Dole opens up. Follow the cross-country ski trails on the snowshoe trail on the right and continue to the Pillarde trail.

(3) The return journey begins just before the Pillarde mountain chalet. Keep left and then left again to cross to the other side of the plateau. From this point, you can see the Faucille antenna. Continue along this route, passing in front of the Girantette mountain chalet, cross the stone wall to rejoin the Écureuil snowshoe route.

(4) Continue, stay on the trail and pass through the edge of the forest to rejoin the plateau. Pass by the Lécherolle farm, cutting across its track and returning to the crossroads from the outward journey.

(2) Leave the plateau and return to the starting point via the same route (S/E).

Purchase snowshoe passes to go further.

The Vattay car parks are located on the RN5. There are four of them along the road.

The route is located in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. The specific regulations for this area can be found at this link

Dogs are not permitted on this route.

Be careful when crossing cross-country ski trails.

Access to the Vattay area is subject to a charge. Tickets can be purchased directly on site or via the following link:
https://skipass.paysdegex-montsjura.com/fr/

Preparation before the outing

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.

Communication

1. Inform a friend or family member

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

Equipment and safety

1. Equip yourself properly

- Do not go alone.
- 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 that are 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 problems

1. Emergency number

- Call 112 (European emergency number).

By following these steps, you can ensure maximum safety for yourself and your companions during your mountain outing. Enjoy your hike!

Enjoy your winter adventure to the fullest in complete safety!

This route is located in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve

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.