Champagny-en-Vanoise is a small alpine paradise for nature lovers and their four-legged companions. Nestled at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park, the village offers access to several hikes suitable for dogs on leashes.. Hiking with your dog in Champagny-en-Vanoise is therefore an ideal activity for nature lovers.
Preparing for my winter stay with my dog
Discover the five hikes of the summer season
Skiing with your dog in ChampagnyâLa Plagne: preparing for your winter holiday
Going to the mountains without leaving your dog behind, sharing an outing in the snow, then getting together with the whole family around a beautiful table: that's also a way to experience a ski holiday.
In Champagny-en-Vanoise, the best itinerary depends on accessible trails, snow conditions, and the pace of your group. Here are two winter outing ideas compiled by the tourist office, along with rules to know and points to consider when planning your stay.
La Rossa: Getting to new heights with your dog
Dogs are welcome at the Champagny gondola lift. With your pedestrian access pass, you can reach the start of the La Rossa route, near the restaurant of the same name.
The trail leads to the Roc des Blanchets, offering views of the Vanoise glaciers. Allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes for the round trip, with an elevation gain of 126 meters. The tourist office rates it as moderately difficult: it's an ungroomed, high-altitude route, not a walk on a cleared sidewalk.
Keep your dog on a leash and stay on the designated hiking/snowshoeing trail, avoiding the ski slopes. Bring appropriate equipment for the conditions; the tourist office advises against this outing after heavy snowfall or in fog. Also, check the gondola's return times.
See the official La Rossa listing
Le ChĂątelard: a more sporty outing from the village
Starting from Villard Dessus, a forest path climbs up to the hamlet of ChĂątelard. The return journey via the same route takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes in total and involves 285 meters of elevation gain, according to the tourist office information sheet.
Animals are welcome, but the trail is classified as difficult and is not groomed. It is recommended only for experienced hikers and dogs accustomed to strenuous activity, when conditions permit. We advise keeping your dog on a leash to preserve the tranquility of the wildlife and other hikers.
This proposal concerns the round trip indicated on the sheet, not the variant with crossing a ski slope.
Consult the official ChĂątelard profile
Champagny-le-Haut and Vanoise: the boundaries you need to know
A walk that is possible in summer is not automatically possible in winter.
In Champagny-le-Haut, the tourist office states that dogs are not allowed on or near the cross-country ski trails. Therefore, do not attempt to use the summer trail in the valley as a winter walk without first checking the exact route.
Check the restrictions indicated by La Plagne
Within the core area of Vanoise National Park, dogs are prohibited, even on a leash, except in specific cases, notably for certain assistance dogs. Outside the core area, local municipal regulations and those of nature reserves remain in effect.
Consult the rules of the Vanoise National Park
Before heading out, check the trail's opening status, the weather forecast, and snow conditions. The Champagny tourist office can provide information at +33 4 79 55 06 55. A route description does not guarantee that the trail will be open on the chosen day.
Organize ski days without forgetting your partner
In a group where not everyone skis, each person can create their own day: a walk with the dog, a day on the slopes, then a get-together at the chalet. Decide together who will be responsible for walks and dog-sitting before booking.
If the whole group wants to ski at the same time, arrange suitable childcare. The tourist office can provide information on local options: availability, conditions, and prices should be confirmed directly with the provider.
Preparing for your ski holiday with your dog
Meeting up at Chalet Alouette, with your dog
Chalet Alouette accommodates up to 12 people in the heart of Champagny-en-Vanoise. Its 167 mÂČ, four bedrooms, four bathrooms and fully equipped kitchen allow you to share a stay with family or friends, while still maintaining space for everyone.
The cable car is about 300 meters away, shops are a few minutes' walk, and bed linen and towels are provided. Dogs are welcome: please let us know when planning your stay.
Imagine returning from a walk, reuniting in the living room, and preparing a meal together. Discover the rooms, sleeping arrangements, and available dates to plan your next week in the mountains.
In the warmer months: 5 hikes with your dog
These routes are not winter itineraries. During periods of snow, consult the winter section above and local information before your departure.
1. Champagny le Haut Valley
- Distance: 5.5 km â Elevation gain+168 m
- Duration~1h15
- Dogs allowedYes, on a leash.
- AssetEasy access, large alpine meadow, ideal for a family walk. This trail is perfect for hiking with your dog in Champagny-en-Vanoise.
2. Plaisance Refuge & Py Waterfall
- Distance~2h â Elevation gain+600 m
- Dogs: allowed up to the refuge
- Strengths: spectacular view, wild atmosphere, varied flora.
3. War Mountain
- Distance~3 hours round trip Elevation gain: +1050 m
- Dogs allowed (outside the heart of the park)
- AssetPanoramic views of the Vanoise peaks and Courchevel. Hiking with your dog in Champagny-en-Vanoise is an enriching experience on this route.
4. Plan des Gouilles Refuge
- Distance: 6.7 km round trip â Elevation gain+820 m
- Duration~4h
- Dogs allowed : only as far as the refuge, kept on a leash (recommended)
- SpecificityThe trail is steady but consistent, offering panoramic views of the Champagny valley. Hiking with your dog in Champagny-en-Vanoise can be a pleasant challenge on this trail.
5. Pontille Gorge Circuit
- Distance: 5.7 km â Elevation gain+250 m
- Duration~2h
- Dogs allowed Yes, on a leash.
- Advantage: shaded gorges, very pleasant in summer to cool off your dog.
đșïž Interactive map of the 5 hikes
A customized Google map with the starting points and routes of the 5 itineraries:
đ See the map here
đž Photo gallery
đ Preparing for your hike with a dog
| Advice | For what |
|---|---|
| Water for the dog | Few reliable sources |
| Leash required | Respect for wildlife/livestock |
| Poop bag | Environmental preservation |
| Check out the heart of the park | Dog-free zones |
Chalet Alouette đ â your ideal starting point
Chalet Alouette welcomes you and your dog to Champagny:
- Quick access to all the routes mentioned
- Mountain comfort and a warm atmosphere
- Personalized advice and guidebooks available
For your stay in Champagny-en-Vanoise, discover the Chalet Alouette for 12 people or the Lodge Alouette for 6 people. Check availability and book directly.