Hiking Creux du Van in Winter

Well I wanted to do this hike before the first snowfall but that did not happen. It quickly turned into a snowshoe and cross country ski wonderland. Early snowfall is no problem though, the snow is not deep enough to gobble you up and the weather is still okay. Although, once we got to the top, the walls had captured a lot of wind driven snow and the conditions were harder. It was beautiful though, but would have been much more fun on skis.

Location: Start in Chez le Favre, Switzerland

Difficulty Level: Moderate, with added challenge due to snow

Distance and Duration: 5.9 km / 3.7 mi

Accessibility: This is not an accessible route in winter. In winter, you can drive nearly to the edge of the canyon.

Elevation Gain: 106 m / 348 ft

Trail Type: Out-and back

Gear and Equipment: Bring water and a snack.

Essentials: Always bring the 10 essentials! 

Permits and Fees: No permits or entrance fees for hiking here.

Weather Check: As you go up the mountain, the weather gets more variable.

Trailhead Description: You will see a parking lot where you can park, and just follow the footprints towards the canyon. You can’t miss if because you cannot go any further by car.

Seasons: Year round if skiing or snowshoeing.

Scenic Points: The views, a restaurant in the summer, the canyon, and fog.

Challenges: If hiking in snow, that is the challenge.

Wildlife Encounters: Birds, cows, sheep, goats.