Are you looking for some great snowshoeing trails in Valais? Then you are at the right places. The little village Nendaz has several Snowshoeing trails to choose from. And the good thing is these trails are also possible to do whilst Ski Touring.
I have listed below our favourite snowshoeing trails in Valais in the village of Haute-Nendaz which all have a different level of difficulty. We live here, therefore please trust me that these are some of the finest snowshoe trails in Nendaz. These trails can easily be completed during a winter holiday in Nendaz, whether you are a beginner or an advanced snowshoe hiker or ski-tourer.
Some of these snowshoe trails, like the Pra da Dzeu or Siviez Tortin trail, are perfect for winter walks as well and both trails are family-friendly.
No matter which activity you are choosing in Valais – All Ski Touring or Snowshoeing trails in Nendaz are beautiful and provide different levels of achievement.
NOTE: At the end of this article, you will find all about safety and recommended touring equipment & FAQ section with beginners in mind.
Ski Touring & Snowshoeing Map in Valais – Nendaz
On this map you will find the starting points for our favourite ski touring & snowshoeing trails in Nendaz. Below in the trail itineraries, I have added a special map with the profile of the whole trails.
Our Favourite Ski Touring & Snowshoe Trails in Valais – Nendaz
In the images on this blog post, you will see us ski touring on all of these trails. But be assured that they are for both purposes.
These ski touring and snowshoeing trails itineraries in Valais – Nendaz may differentiate from the description you will find elsewhere. The reason for this is simple, there are just so many trails around Nendaz, and by knowing them very well we figured some are just easier to do like this than any other way. Most of the time you will see the path already tracked out and you just have to follow the trail in the snow.
Below is the picture you will see the different winter trail signs to help you find the way. Our suggested routes follow the Yellow Movement Signs, except for the last snowshoeing trail by the Antenna.
1. Snowshoe trail to Pracondu – Pra Da Dzeu & The Jean Pierre
Ascension 322 m: Highest point 1948: Level easy to Pra da Dzeu then Moderate.
Duration 1h20, not taking into consideration taking lots of photos and marvelling at the views.
I just had to start with our top favourite ski touring and snowshoeing trail in Valais – Nendaz.
This trail has two sections, the easier part which finishes at its highest point after 3.3km. Followed by the 2nd part to the summit. See description and extra map below.
Follow the track at first through the magnificent forest and always uphill. Here you will also find the cross-country ski track as well. When ski touring we prefer to take the cross-country track over the snowshoeing and sledging one. However, both will bring you to the opening of Pra da Dzeu.
Take some time and admire this peaceful and most beautiful clearing. An absolute gem here in Nendaz.
The track then continues with a steady ascent up through the most magical winter landscape here in Nendaz, all the way up to the ski piste, the Jean-Pierre.
Your ski touring & snowshoeing map below shows you the 1st stage. From here you can either ski down to Haute-Nendaz when you are on your ski’s that is, or snowshoe back down until you can spot on your left the Pracondu car park.
Alternatively, if you feel your legs are up for it, carry on with the 2nd stage up to Tracouet. https://out.ac/yiyzB
Top TIP
From the car park to the open area of Pra da Dzeu there is a family friendly snowshoe and sledging run.
Furthermore, Pra da Dzeu is an ideal place for a picnic.
Ski touring & Snowshoe Trail Map – Pra da Dzeu to Jean-Pierre Piste
To get full access to the map click on it.
2. Part two : Pracondu – Pra Da Dzeu – Tracouet Skitouring
For those of you that have more energy, carry on up along the steep slope, before spotting one of the ski touring signs which leads you back into the forest. When arriving at the Croix de la Jean-Pierre (cross) the trail alternates between the forest and the ski piste. This is probably the hardest part of your snowshoe trail or ski touring adventure on this track.
But you are nearly there. Crossing over to the left side of the slope back into the forest passing the last few trees before finally coming out at the top of Tracouet station.
If you are snowshoeing this trail you can head back down with the gondola. Tickets can be bought at the top or they will just ask you to buy them when arriving at the bottom in Nendaz. It is Chf 12.-
If you’re ski touring, and your legs are still up for it, ski down to your car.
Extended Map for the entier snowshoe trail Pracondu to Tracouet
Click on the image to get full access to the map details
3. Snowshoe trail Haute-Nendaz to Tracouet, the hard one
Duration 2h30, Ascension 815 m, Highest point 2200, Level Difficult
I call this one, the Killer. And I do not recommend this one for beginners or people with a little fitness level.
Once you started it and are underneath the gondola, there are not many places to cut short and stop the ascent.
This track is great for exercise, as it uses a lot of energy, calories and needs some fitness. The fastest time to reach the top on a direct route was just a little over 32 minutes, it takes us 2hours.
We start this track at the foot of the Tracouet ski slope. Just looking at this first steep climb can be daunting, but just take your time and don’t forget to take in the beautiful scenery. It helps whilst ascending. When you reach the top of this first climb you are in the Les Clèves area.
If you have your accommodation in Nendaz up here, then of course start this ski touring and snowshoeing trail right here. This saves you quite a strenuous hill.
The car park up at Les Clèves is all private, therefore you are not allowed to park your car unless you have a designated parking place which comes with your accommodation.
Cross the ski slopes and head between the Ski Bar, le Bob and the chalets up the narrow path. (see photos below) Just be careful when crossing the piste, as some skiers are skiing super-fast down the mountain.
Once you have reached the foot of the steep hill, the trail now pretty much zigzags up underneath the gondola until near the summit at Tracouet.
I know, what all the way up there!!!?? Yes! But you can do this!
Just keep following the yellow Movement Tracks sign shown above. You will also see tracks from other people which will guide you.
Continue on the track which brings you around the mountain to The Jean-Pierre ski run and up to the top.
Every time I ski tour this track I cannot actually believe it when I reach the top that I have done it. It is hard but such an achievement.
Same again, if you are snowshoeing up to Tracouet, you can head back down with the gondola. Tickets can be bought at the top or they will just ask you to buy them when arriving at the bottom in Haute-Nendaz. It is Chf 12.-
Or ski down the Jean-Pierre or the Alpage if your legs are still up for it.
Click on the image to get full access to the map.
4. Siviez – Tortin Snowshoeing Trail in Valais, the easy one
Duration to the top of the chairlift 1h00, 2.7km, Ascension 285 m, Highest point 2014, Level Easy
This is the perfect ski touring or snowshoe trail in Valais – Nendaz for beginners and families. An easy steady uphill track passing through some beautiful winter landscape parallel to, but separated from the Tortin ski slope.
We normally start by heading up the piste until the path separates to the left. This trail is also perfect for a winter walk where you do normally not need snowshoes.
Careful you are sharing the path with beginner skiers and there might even be people coming down on their sledge.
Just take your time, follow the path until you are at the top of the chairlift and meet the ski piste again. If you are ski touring then ski back down.
If you are snowshoeing you could make a loop and head back down along the path for the ski school until it crosses with the main ski slope. Look down on your left, you will see a Tipi and you should also see a path leading towards it. Wander down there and then continue on along the snow path until you arrive in Siviez. All in all, a nice winter walk.
To take the chair lift down, you MUST head to the very end of the installation along the flat bit, as you can only get on it from there.
Ski touring & snowshoeing map Siviez – Tortin
In the map below I have listed the full snowshoeing circuit trail. Click on it to get full access.
5. Snowshoeing by the Antenna in Nendaz, Easy
Duration 0h45, Ascension 55 m, Highest point 1294, Level Easy
Our next favorite track is not for ski touring but well worth getting your snowshoes on.
Park your car at the Swisscom Antenna car park and walk down to the open space by the farm. Halfway down you will see the start of the snowshoe trail marked with the pink way sign. (6B kids on the map from tourism)
This is a beautiful snowshoe trail in Valais for beginners and families or simply people who like a quiet and peaceful area. Best to do this easy loop in the late afternoon to capture the golden hours. Marvel at the impressive mountains across the Rhone valley, le Haut de Cry, les Muverans and the hidden valley of Derborence.
Before you get back in the car, walk up to the Antenna and admire the most amazing view along the Rhône valley. Great for a picnic, sundowner or just to enjoy beautiful Valais scenery.
Safety First when Ski Touring & Snowshoeing in Valais
Before you head out into the beautiful nature of Nendaz, get some information on whether the ski touring and snowshoeing trails are open. Some areas are in avalanche territory and caution is needed. Secondly, as some trails are within the forest, there also might be some areas where trees are falling due to heavy snow fall or after a stormy day.
Just be prepared and check the openings of the tracks
Recommended Special Ski Touring & Snowshoeing Equipment
The below equipment is all proper touring and life-saving equipment. You may think that you do not need this as a beginner. Honestly, it all depends on which ski touring or snowshoeing track in Nendaz you choose to do.
If it is the village one, then no, you do not need this special touring equipment, but as soon as you are ski touring or snowshoeing in Nendaz close to the ski domain area i.e off piste, it is recommended.
Therefore, if you are heading up one of these tracks, make sure you know how to use your gear.
Recommended Special Touring Equipment
A DVA (avalanche transceiver) switched to “transmit” mode
Headlamp,
Shovel,
Probe,
Crampons
All this special ski touring and snowshoeing equipment can be rented in any Sport Shop in Nendaz if needed.
FAQ about Ski Touring or Snowshoeing in Nendaz Valais?
- I am a beginner, can I go Ski Touring or Snowshoeing in Nendaz?
Oh absolutely, you do not need any experience whether for ski touring or for snowshoeing. My suggestion would be to start with one of the easy trails first. This allows you to get used to it before mastering the more difficult trails.
There are also several Ski Schools offering guided ski touring or snowshoeing in Valais – Nendaz. - Can I rent the equipment in Nendaz for Ski Touring or Snowshoeing?
Yes, you can, we recommend Mariethoz Sports or Ski Service by the lift station in Nendaz. If you are arriving during peak winter season it would maybe be best to pre-order them. This way you are sure your ski touring or snowshoeing equipment is awaiting you and you can hit these beautiful touring tracks in Nendaz.
- Can I rent children ski touring or snowshoeing equipment in Nendaz?
I know snowshoes are available in pretty small sizes already, probably as of the age of 6 onwards. To rent ski touring equipment in Nendaz will be more difficult, I believe even impossible. There is too little demand so sport shops generally do not stock them for very small sizes. But no reason to be disappointed, snowshoeing is a lot of fun as well, and honestly also much easier for the kids. But best ask the sports shop directly.
- What equipment do I need to go snowshoeing in Valais, Nendaz? (or ski touring)
Well obviously, the ski touring set, touring skis, poles and most importantly the skins that go under your skis.
For snowshoeing in Nendaz you need the snowshoes called “des raquettes à neige” and not to forget the poles. It will make your life much easier to have them. Not sure if you could actually snowshoe without ski or hiking poles. I will have to try this.
Your clothing should be comfortable and breathable. My suggestion is whether you are ski touring or snowshoeing in Valais, Nendaz, do not wear a puffer jacket “Daunjacket.” Put your duvet in your backpack and wear it when you stop for a break or at the end of your tour so you are not getting cold.
Even if the weather is cold, believe me, you will get warm very quickly, especially if you choose one of the more difficult trails in Nendaz.
The 1st layer of thermal underwear, a second layer of a softshell and a wind stopper are normally all you need. Even if the temperature is in the minus. Plus, some ski pants or even better some high mountaineer trousers and a thermal layer underneath.
If you are ski touring and are planning to ski down the piste or mountain afterwards, do not forget to pack your helmet.
You may also like these Summer & Winter articles from Nendaz
- Siviez: Bisse de Chervé – Panoramic Hike in Nendaz
- Nendaz – Family Skiing Les 4 Vallées (maps & Video)
- Activities for Families – Tracouet Station Lac Noir
- Nendaz Village – Swap the beach for the Swiss Mountain Village
I hope that the information provided here will prove itself useful when discovering the ski touring and snowshoe trails in Valais – Nendaz.
If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask your questions in the comments below so that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries also.
Thank you & Never Forget to Explore
