From Lélex to Crêt de la Neige

Departure from the car park in the village of Lélex at the foot of the Catheline cable car.

(S/E) From the Lélex Tourist Office, go down to the right on the Route du Haut to reach the starting point of the trail. Pass in front of the Dahu and Établi restaurants, as well as the ESF, and reach the Voie du Col de Crozet on the left.

(1) The path climbs to the left and is marked in purple and signposted for^GR®® hiking (red and white) for the first 200 metres. It is tarmac and then becomes a classic path on the left. Follow three hairpin bends and continue straight ahead twice until you reach an intersection. The slope becomes gentler and the path crosses an intersection.

(2) Continue climbing on the left; the path is still in the woods. Continue to the Chalet du Ratou.

(3) From the Chalet du Ratou, head east then south, cross a track and reach the next stage at the Refuge de la Loge.

(4) You can stop for a quick snack here. Continue south/south-west, to the right, still on the^GR®®. Take care when crossing a track called Les Astèrs. After this, re-enter the woods and continue to the Brillonne d'en Haut crossroads.

(5) Keep to the left, pass the ruins and then climb up to the undergrowth. There is a short steep climb here.

(6) At the end of the climb, the pretty Combe des Voyettes comes into view. Walk along the reservoir before returning to the forest, where a new level appears after this passage under the pine trees. You will arrive at Combe du Brulat Frésy.

(7) This is the last stage before you can fully enjoy the view from this level. Go around a pretty cirque and continue climbing until you reach the Crêt.

(8) Follow the ridges to the right, passing along mountain pines and canyons. You will then reach the Crêt de la Neige.

(9) The highest accessible point in the Jura massif is located here. Enjoy the setting, with views of the Reculet to the south, the Alps and Mont Blanc to the east, the Haute Chaîne du Jura to the north, and the folds of the Jura massif to the south. Below the Crêt de la Neige is the village of Lélex.
Turn around and take the same route back to the car park at the foot of the Catheline cable car (S/E).

Open from 1 December to 30 March.

You can take the Catheline cable car during its opening hours.

If you start this route from the top of the Catheline cable car, you will need a ticket. You can buy one directly on site or online on the website.

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

Dogs are not permitted on this route.

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.
Provide 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!

The Refuge de la Loge is a manned refuge where you can eat and even sleep.

From 15 December to 30 June inclusive, the Crêt de la Neige area is a quiet zone. It is forbidden to leave the marked path. The specific regulations for this area can be consulted via this link.

The Lélex - Crozet resort is an area where several activities can be enjoyed, including downhill skiing, ski touring, hiking and downhill mountain biking in the summer.