Category: Snowshoes

Peter Strebel called us for a snow-shoe outing in a snow-storm. This was no country for (old) wimps, a reference to a previous week’s outing where one member turned up because he did not want to be seen as one.

I am writing this Blog for Peter while he prepares for his Australian trip, but to him goes the credit for sounding us out and choosing a route which minimised driving and gave us sufficient exercise prior to eating hot cheese. One of his earlier options involved a picnic in a gale causing a strongly negative response. One member in particular did not want to “live his life like a sandwich in the wind”.

The forecast was indeed for continuous falling snow and many realised that this is indeed when the Jura comes alive in winter, the trees are bedecked like a Schilliger’s Christmas display, the wind howls and the fondus feel so much tastier. Our route started at La Givrine tracking up across a field to the woods in a NW direction before turning to head NE towards the Pré du Four Chalet. From there we were to steer towards La Genolière a favourite eatery in a storm, followed by the easy track down back to the parking afterwards.

Turning out at Divonne parking were 7 deranged folk, but non-wimps: Peters Strebel, Solomon and Taylor, Nathan, Mervyn, RichardS and Chris Newton, not to forget Kobie. The road was clear of snow up to La Givrine, but fine snow was in the air and the parking was slushily covered.

The EasyPark was not working for me (lack of internet) but the machine worked and we were soon off guided by staff along the sides of the crosscountry ski trail. No cross country skiers were out that day. Tracking in single file (especially for Kobie who could not move in the deep powder) up the initial slope, the snow was soft and deep and the going hard and hot. My knees (PT) were not going to thank me for today. PeterSt took over the lead as we approached the forest.

Now that we were on the ski trail we ignored orders to keep to one side, nobody was skiing, the going became much easier as we chatted until we came in sight of Les Coppettes Chalet at 1300m.

We turned off the track and headed up again into the deep powder this time with PeterSo in the lead and it was not long before we heaved into the covered shelter of Pré du Four (1395m). Time for apèros.

I don’t think that any of us had seen this much snow in the Jura before. While the Alps were showing code red avalanche warnings, the Jura had a code orange moderate. It looked like the most serious danger might come from chalet roofs..

PeterSt telephoned ahead to La Genolière to advise them that we would be slightly late for our 12.30 reservation, we had been moving slowly in the deep white landscape. We packed up and exited from the far end (to avoid the roof danger) and headed off in single file up the remaining 35m or so of ascent before starting down past the Grutli Chalet, PeterSt and PeterSo breaking trail heroically. The wind was blowing strongly from our right and it had not stopped snowing and the scenery was of the Jura’s very best.

We passed down through the very beautiful forest that contains the lower trail up to Cabane Carroz.

We made it down all too soon onto the main trail and turned left and up to be met by Moos at La Genolière. We had reserved a table, and I was little surprised that there were 3 other parties there, but all were couples. After hanging up our wet kit we sat down near the log fire to some initial beers with Kobie his chews on a carpet that I had carried for him. Cheese and other dishes were ordered, some fondu, some rösti, some croutes and soup, was down with some excellent white wine. We had earned it!

Classic cheese eating Gintlemen

There was much discussion at the table about many subjects, including winter avalanche deaths (too many), absent friends (too many to name), dogs, politics, rugby, golf (sic), future events, the arrest of Andrew and even Scottish independence. I may have missed many other topics – it was just nice to feel warm and well fed and watered and back in the company of our chums, while all along the snow fell outside.

All too soon it was time to pay (cash only) and tog up for the exit outside into the snow again. It was still snowing but only very lightly. We all donned our snow shoes, although it was perfectly feasible to walk back in boots as others were doing.

We were soon back at the cars where the tarmac was mostly cleared of snow. The temperature there was perhaps just above freezing, it was not cold enough for ice. We could even see sun at the very end, dimly admittedly.

Another great day out that will linger in the memory on forthcoming hot summer days. I made it 9.7km and 405m (although that does seem a tad over the top – it was on my watch so it goes into the spreadsheet). Thanks again to PeterSt for organising and breaking trail, PeterSo too. May there be many more.

Looking through the GIN blogs, it seems that the Grand Mont Rond (GMR) ascent on snowshoes has become a biennial (as opposed to a bi-annual) event, so as appointed SLeader, I thought we should continue the tradition.  Nine of us signed up, Peter (+Kobie), Mervyn, Stephen, Nathan, David, Ralph, Philip, Marks 2rrs and myself.  Unfortunately, Mark had to pull out at the last moment suffering from a heavy cold.  Regrets and kind wishes were sent by several others with an eclectic range of excuses.

The main group of Vaudois set off from Divonne, whilst the Gessiens (Ralph, Philip and me) made our own ways directly up to the Col.  At the car park, Kobie was as usual complaining about the length of time it took these (not so young) Gintlemen to don their snow shoes, but eventually we set off at around 10.15 taking the back road behind the ski lifts and past the zip line that some of us are planning to attempt in the summer.  We passed a guy who had obviously been waiting all night and then turned left to take the path up through the forest.

It’s a steady climb up and we were pleased to be wearing snow shoes, but it was a bit disconcerting to see a couple of younger guys speeding past us just wearing boots. 

We reached the first ski run and at this point Philip, who had also been suffering from a cold, decided sadly, that enough was enough, so he elected to part company with us and return to his car. 

The remaining seven of us continued under sunny skies but cold temps towards the GMR before becoming disconcerted again by the sight of a group of about 15 youngsters coming towards us, mostly girls and just wearing shorts. 

We made steady progress up to the summit where there were surprisingly many people.  This was a Thursday and one wonders how many were “working from home”!  There was swirling  cloud but in between we had some fine views across the Alps and the Jura.  A strong wind forced us to find some lee and inevitably, bottles and snacks appeared.  Stephen produced an alcohol-free wine that was not universally appreciated by those who tried it, but Peter had his trusty bottle of Luins which was!  The GIN bottle containing Red Bull vodka also made an appearance and was partaken by some brave souls.

The descent from the GMR was not always clear and at one point, some of us had to backtrack when we reached something of a precipice.  We all arrived safely at the central valley where there was masses of virgin snow.

The climb up the other side was led by Peter and Kobie who chose the right hand route close to the falaise facing the Alps.  There is an alternative way to the left which is easier, but our route was more challenging, resulting at one point with at least three of us choosing to slide down one particularly steep slope on our bottoms.  We continued on the undulating trail towards the PMR, but shortly beforehand there was a minor mutiny when it was suggested that we go down to the main station for lunch instead of the self service at the top.  Captain Bligh, aka SLeader, reasoned that the views were much better from above so we pressed on with no punitive action necessary!

At the restaurant, we found an empty corner table with a great panorama and enjoyed well-earned beers courtesy of Ralph, for which many thanks.  Although we had only hiked about six kilometres and climbed 440 metres, it was felt by some of us at least, that we had had a decent workout.  Staple fare was consumed, steaks, sausages, lasagne, pasta, etc, and it was time to head down.  Mervyn, Peter and Kobie decided that telecabines are for wimps so they opted to walk back to the car park whilst the rest of us gratefully sailed down past them in relative comfort.

The weather and snow conditions turned out to be above expectations, the company was, as usual, superb and everyone arrived home safely.

La Loge via various routes

B Team – 6 km 300m or so

The snowshoe section broke ground in 2 innovations for this event. First, by appointing a leader who had never been to the area before and had no idea where he was supposed to go. Dear reader, I blush to admit it was I, your current blogger.

The second innovation was a two pronged assault on the objective, La Loge, the mountain redoubt of Franck, Kathy and the Genepi source, of which more later. A section, consisting Paul S, Richard Saynor, David Colledge and Mark Warren took the longer drive and shorter walk option by going to Lelex. B section and the K9 section consisting of Mark Watts, Nathan F, Mervyn, Steve Long, Peter Strebel, Peter Taylor and your blogger took the shorter drive to Crozet with a slightly longer, stiffer walk. K9 section consisted of the Gin K9 regulars, Kobie and Rocco. 

A very prompt meet up at Divonne parking took place under frankly unpromising skies, with the sky unable to make up its mind whether to snow or rain. Weather improved on the way to our respective jumping off points, although we still had 10/10ths cloud. Eschewing the preferred Taylor option of walking up from the very bottom, we took the bubbles up the mountain. Snow shoes on, we set off for Franck’s under gradually clearing weather with Peter Strebel predicting 11 out of the 2 periods of clear patches. Not a particulary long or difficult route but with very variable snow conditions underfoot. 

B Section arrived at Franck’s to find A section happily ensconced, getting themselves out side of plates of charcuterie and refreshing themselves after their long trek (ok 15 minutes) from the top of the lift up from Lelex. What followed was what many seemed to believe was one of the best GIN lunches ever.

We had La Loge virtually to ourselves and were rapidly provided with more charcuterie and delicious fresh bread. The saucisse and lentil main course proved both popular and an extremely wise choice.

Tarte au myrtilles was a welcome follow up with coffee followed by Franck getting out his box of industrial strength genepi.  At one point it looked like Franck was fixing to have us stay the whole afternoon. He was an extremely warm and generous host and even given his announcement that the genepi and the coffees were on the house, it was hard to believe the per head cost of only just over 30 euros. Conversations were as usual wide rangeing. Peter T mentioned his anti-choking device, although there was some puzzlement as to why he didn’t have it with him. It appears to look like some kind of sink un-blocker. Given the various suggestions as to what other bodily malfunctions/orifices the device could be applied to, it was perhaps a blessing that by this time we had La Loge entirely to ourselves.

The return commenced just in time to meet the 16.00 last lift deadline and we did finally get one of Peter S’s clear patches with wonderful if fleeting views.

The descent had a little bit of a sting in the tail with me ending up on my backside. Peter S helped me up and although it was not a remotely dangerous situation, it was a little reminder of the advantages of walking in a group. ‘Vale’ GIN.

An easy drive back to Divonne was accomplished before 17.00. The walk was not particularly long (5km, 300m deniv.) even for Section B but your author’s legs reminded him that evening of the greater physical demands of snow shoeing across variable snow compared to walking. At least among Sections B and K9, the consensus was that this was an excellent outing and many thanks were due to the organiser given his thorough knowledge of the logistics, the terrain, the route etc. Actually, thanks to Mark Warren for setting up the table and Peter T and many others for explaining the routes and logistics to me. 

Mike Hempstead

Crans 23/1/26     

A journey through a winter wonderland. La Givrine to Cabane Rochefort and La Genolière. 10Km and 300m denivellation.

Billed as a hike it became clear that this was going to be a snow-shoe affair, filling the first of Rob’s calendar for the 25/26 winter season.

Rob had still not recovered so I ended the hiking season with this fairly easy snow-shoe. It looked like the weather was going to be good and perhaps the snow too, but we were (at least I was) astonished at the 35cm or more of powder lying on the Jura top, while our gardens were still green. Ross had been pounding the powder for the past few days and posting photos so he knew about it.

Apologies were received from several, simply to record that they were missed, and they missed a good one. It was uplifting to hear from Larry but we were sorry to read that he is still in Canada struggling with some health issues. Get well soon Larry!

In the event 9 and a dog turned out at La Givrine (1207m). Nathan, Mervyn, PeterS, Mark, Mark, Stephen, David, Ross and me with Kobie. Conditions looked perfect with bright sun, cold, and no wind. I had booked a table at La Genolière for 12.30pm, but had to revise this by phone with a delay to 1.30pm – we were slowed by raquettes, age and deep snow and by the apèro stop.

We set off on the ski du fond piste but branched off on the snow-shoe trail to Les Pralies, followed by the Route de Combe Grasse

This route was straightforward as a vehicle had passed by earlier. Stephen set a steady pace through Combe Grasse with Kobie following in his wake. Ross was pleased – this was a new route for him – and he seemed surprised as if he thought that he had traversed all the trails above La Givrine.

The Combe itself is a depression which acts as a fridge, cold misty air hung in its bowl as we ploughed through the deep powder, aided only by a trail laid by four snow-shoers we could see ahead. I was lost in my thoughts, amazed to be out in such conditions – albeit we have been here before in similar…

We turned sharp left at 1316m just before the right turn to Chalet Devant at the Fruitières de Nyon and then sharp right on up to the Cabane Rochefort 1385m.

It was time to reward ourselves with some apèro at Cabane Rochefort where we found the seating in the shade still and cover in 30 cm of powder.

Just as Mark2ts was about to offer us all some black coffee the leader (me) decided that we had better press on; we were now trying to keep to a 1.30 lunch schedule. My offer of a straightforward route or scenic route was met with short shrift, and the easier route was decided.

It was not long before we were ensconced outside at our reserved table(s) and drinking some excellent beer – I thought I had reserved inside but we were all happy to be in the sun.

Ross had decided to eat his own provisions and it was not a problem for him to sit with us.

A nice lady introduced herself to me and said that she had met me and Kobie in Divonne in 2022. She so much liked Kobie, and the Cobberdog breed that she and her partner got one from Denmark in 2023. Una sported a full length-legging suit. They were very pleased with their choice, so seemed Una!

Enough dog talk. A rather good fondu for 4 was ordered as were röestis and croutes, helped down with a bottle of house white. We drank to absent friends, Larry in particular, also our leader Rob, but also Richard who was missed for his bottle.. Surplus to requirements, I donated my bottle of Chilean Cab Sauvignon to Maria, the proprietress and Moos owner.

Over lunch Mark2rs and I reflected on the fact that this is perhaps as good as it gets. Perfect snow conditions, no wind, sun, fine views to the alps (we could see Mt Blanc), hot cheese, cold wine, great company and only downhill to come (in life perhaps too, even if not always with our ski leader). Given that we were still only on 27 November when rain and wind is more the norm, we were very thankful for our luck.

We finished with apple and cream tarts and coffees.

We donned snow shoes again for the easy stroll back down to La Givrine and the cars.

I reckoned 10km and 304m denivellation. A truly magical walk in the Jura at its very best. Thanks for the company everyone. Kobie slept well that night.

Divonne- Mont Mourex-L’Accord Parfait- Divonne

As the leader for the day pointed out, snowshoes were not needed for this hike on Mont Mourex and Mont Mussy. The spring-like weather of the week before had reduced snow levels on the Jura and, despite some new coverage, the decision was taken to reduce altitude level to try and stay on relative firm ground. As it turned out the weather forecast for the day was unsettled and as we gathered in the car park next to the old station in Divonne it was indeed trying to rain as well as blowing a cold wind.

Eight intrepid GIN Snowshoers turned up on time (well almost) with two canine friends (Kobi and Rocco) happy to see each other and join in the circuit. Stephen (leader for the day) Mike H, Nathan, Richard S, Mark 2Ts, Peter T, Peter S and Ross made up the starting group. We set off through the Divonne housing in the direction of Les Crottes and onto the Chemin de Tir where the road melted into a track leading along the base of Mont Mussy to Mourex. Helpful “Deviation” signs showed us the way….intended for traffic but somehow seemed suitable for this group. Happily, any deviating individual had been properly admonished on the last snowshoe outing, consequently solidarity with the leader’s directions was unflinching.

Along the way, we experienced some unexpected hail and an attempt at snow but also some sunshine. Arriving at the road leading up through Mourex, several of the group, who are also members of the Biking Group, recalled the hard slog in the saddle up this hill from the old train track below. This forms part of the famous 3 hills circuit pioneered by Peter D. We followed the road up through the village until we reached the parking for Mont Mourex. At this point, our canine presence was swollen by a dog walking group of at least 8 dogs of various sizes and breeds. Extracting Kobi and Rocco took a little time.

We completed the hike up to the highest point (755m) where the vantage point and circular tableau offered not only a superb view but also a useful bar and table, albeit a little wet and slippery. The cold wind didn’t allow the Puglian Primativo to be enjoyed at it’s best and even the spirit bottle of many names was untouched in favour of Mark’s warm coffee. (That could also be due to the fact that it’s contents were unchanged from the previous outing and our memories of that tasting experience are still fresh). However, the increasing number of snacks that appear on these outings were happily consumed in an attempt to provide insulating fat and ballast.

Highest point – Mont Mourex

The “bar” in action

A happier Mike………amazing what abstinence can do

At this point the leader suggested retracing our steps to the car park to enable joining the track leading around the far side of the hill. Despite seasoned voices suggesting that there was indeed an alternative route to achieving this aim, not requiring backtracking, solidarity and compliance with the leader’s pre-determined route prevailed. As it transpired, this allowed a second encounter with the dog walkers and their canine posse, much to the delight of our two dogs.

With only occasional stops to ensure that we were taking the correct forks in the track, we arrived at the parking by the Ferme de Mussy. At this point Peter T, Ross and Peter S took the direct route back to the cars, foregoing the pleasures of L’Accord Parfait. In Peter T’s case this was probably due to concern that Kobi would ensure that he didn’t need a doggy bag as he would have benefitted from a tour of the restaurant and kitchen, sampling from any plate left unattended.

The five lunch-goers took the small meandering path to the back of the restaurant and arrived after a Tayloresque off-piste steep descent. Why there is no formal path down is a mystery. We joined Mark 2Rs who had arrived separately, recovering from a flu/fever but well enough to have ordered and consumed a kir prior to our appearance.

Beers were ordered and a bottle of Argentinian Malbec (at the correct temperature). All but Richard and Stephen opted for the menu du jour. This comprised of a salad and meat croute starter, sausage and mash, and an ice-cream dessert all for an amazing 19Euro. Richard and Stephen went for the more modest coquelet with fries, “modest” being relative only to the set menu lunch as Richard took half of his lunch away with him for later and Mike managed to find room for excess fries. Rocco behaved almost impeccably under the table apart from his penchant for destroying serviettes. He won over the waitress who ensured that he had adequate water. Conversation was varied and interesting, as usual, but don’t expect me to remember the details…..I was struggling with eating all that chicken meat.

Contemplation of the sizeable main course of the menu du jour…..the coquelet is arriving in the background

Lunch and dinner for one

The walk from the restaurant back to the parking by the old station was uneventful. It was a shame that the first part had to be along the main road but there was no appetite for a rescaling of the off-piste to the woodland path. Mark 2Rs took us on a shortcut alongside the chateau to enable not only seeing property in an unknown part of Divonne but also ensuring that siestas were not delayed further.

Consensus was that we covered ca. 12kms and climbed 365m.