If the idea of flying down a snowy slope strapped to a pair of finely tuned fibreglass sticks doesn’t sound like a good day out, then skiing might not be the sport for you. But that doesn’t mean a trip to a ski resort like Méribel will leave you short of ways to stay active.
Snowshoeing is one of the fastest growing sports in the alpine world! It may not get the adrenaline flowing quite like skiing and snowboarding, but snowshoeing promises an amazing full body workout, while enjoying an up close and personal encounter with all of Méribel’s alpine beauty.
What is snowshoeing?
Snowshoes have been used by people in alpine environments for thousands of years to move more efficiently through thick snow while hunting. Early examples were made from animal hides and designed to increase the surface area of the sole by up to three times.
Today, snowshoeing has taken off as a physical pursuit, opening up walking tracks in the winter season to those who fancy a day off the skis.
How do snowshoes work?
Modern snowshoes are a highly specialised bit of kit but the premise remains the same: spikes grip the snow and the splayed sole stops you sinking.
On most models, three straps on the toe, heel and ankle attach to your standard walking boots.
Once you’re strapped in, pick up a pair of poles and you’ll be able to navigate deep snow and steep terrain like a pro. The heel strap can be released to allow more purchase when moving uphill.
The snowshoeing technique is easy to pick up and if you have a reasonable level of physical fitness, you’ll find snowshoeing an enjoyable day out.
Hiring snowshoes in Méribel
Due to its growing popularity, most of Méribel’s ski hire shops now carry snowshoes. When hiring, give the straps a good once over in the shop to make sure all the fittings are tight. It’s worth taking them for a quick spin close to the hire shop to make sure the fit is good.
Loose fitting snowshoes will make walking hard work. It’s best to get it right the first time so you’re not put off for future walks.
Guided snowshoeing in Méribel
The varied terrain that surrounds Méribel on all sides makes it the perfect playground for snowshoers of all abilities. It’s this easy access that’s encouraged a number of snowshoeing guides to set up in the resort.
Raquett'Evasion are an extremely professional outfit offering tailor made packages that suit your group’s ability.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, Prosneige host small snowshoeing groups for a 3 hour guided trip for as little as €49 per person.
Snowshoeing trails in Méribel
At the end of the day, snowshoeing is just walking in the snow, so don’t be afraid to chuck them on and give it a go. Méribel has a great variety of walking routes for all different abilities that are suitable for snowshoeing in the winter.
If you want to get up into the mountains on your snowshoes, pedestrian lift passes can be purchased for the day and you can use the Méribel on foot map to plan your route.
Top tips for snowshoeing
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If you’re heading beyond the walking routes, don’t go alone
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Layer up - you’ll get warm while on the move but the weather changes quickly in the mountains
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Use poles if you’re tackling tricky terrain
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Waterproof skiing gear is recommended
Snowshoeing from our chalets
All of our chalets are situated a stone’s throw from the piste. You can snowshoe right to the front door if you’re not afraid of a little uphill action.
Check out our last minute availability here, and for more information on snowshoeing in Meribel, visit meribel.net.
Photo credits: Meribel.net