Pays-d’Enhaut: An Easy Winter Hike Idea
Article updated on 03.04.26
The Pays-d’Enhaut region is a great place to discover ski touring in winter. Far from the big ski resorts, you’ll find simple routes that allow you to enjoy the mountains in a quieter setting.
Here’s an idea for an accessible half-day outing with a delicious stop at a mountain hut along the way.
Ski Touring or Snowshoeing
Ski touring (skins):
🎿 2.5 km | +D 350 m
⏱️ about 1 hour
Snowshoeing:
🏸 5.5 km | +D 450 m | -D 450 m
⏱️ about 3 hours
🚩 Start and finish at the Praz-Perron parking
From the parking lot (see the GPS point on Google Maps here),
he climb begins on a former ski slope. Simply follow snowshoe route number 7, marked with pink signs.
The elevation gain is steady and gradual, allowing you to climb at your own pace without any particular difficulty. The trail first crosses the forest before reaching alpine pastures with open views over the peaks of the Pays-d’Enhaut.
This type of route is ideal for beginners in ski touring:
- steady slope
- no technical kick turns required
- short ascent
- fairly easy descent (very gentle slope)
At the Sarouche hut, Olivia and Pierre-Louis warmly welcome hikers in the traditional spirit of the Pays-d’Enhaut. A hot drink, a local snack platter, or a homemade tart make for the perfect treat before heading back down.
⚠️ Even though the route is accessible, there is never zero risk in the mountains. It’s important to go out properly equipped (transceiver, shovel, probe depending on conditions) and to check the weather forecast before setting off.
Ski Touring Route on Swisstopo
Find the route on Swisstopo below.
If on a mobile device, you can open it directly in the Swisstopo app by clicking here..
Snowshoe Route on Swisstopo
Find the route on Swisstopo below.
If on a mobile device, you can open it directly in the Swisstopo app by clicking here..
Good to know
- The hut is open only in winter, during the day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- In the evening, it is accessible by reservation only.
Full-moon evenings are sometimes organized. - It’s recommended to check the latest opening hours and information on their website or social media before heading out.
- See the hut’s website
An Accessible Winter Outing
This kind of outing allows you to experience a quieter side of the mountains, far from the bustle of the big ski resorts. The Pays-d’Enhaut still offers beautiful open landscapes, untouched forests, and trails that remain relatively quiet during the week.
It’s a simple way to enjoy winter in a well-preserved natural environment.
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