Snowshoeing itinerary: Le Monolithe via Sardières

In the heart of the beautiful Sardières pine forest, an unexpected silhouette rises up among the trees. It is the Monolith, a slender spire of karst limestone nearly 93 meters high, standing like a mineral giant among the trees.

Description

To walk through this forest is to make your way toward an almost unreal apparition: a stone spire that seems to pierce the sky, the silent guardian of the place.

Additional welcome

Check the weather conditions and avalanche risk before you set out (weather services, mountain rescue services, professionals, tourist office...).
Make sure your gear and clothing are appropriate for the forecast.
Postpone your activity if the weather forecast is poor. Follow safety instructions and do not stray from marked trails in winter.

Environments

• Forest location
• Mountain view
• Mountain location

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 4.3 km
• Route type LOOP
• Elevation gain 230m
• Negative gradient 230m
• Daily duration 02h15
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Marked Trail No. 1
• Nature of the land Non-groomed itinerary
• Maximum altitude 1670m

Opening period

Daily from December 15 to April 1.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather

• Subject to snow conditions

Location

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Documents

• The Monolith by Sardières: full information (PDF)

Animals

Pets allowed : No

The route includes a section within the Vanoise National Park, where animals are not allowed.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 1/ From the Chalet Nordique de Sardières, follow the road signposted "Monolithe" to Le Clott, passing through Sardières Le Lotissement.
  2/ 0 h 20 - At Le Clott, turn left and enter the forest to reach Vallon de la Losa, following the signs for Le Monolithe via Sentier des Biches.
  3/ 1 hr 15 min - At the crossroads in the Vallon, continue on the path toward Le Monolithe, via Sentier des Biches, to the Monolithe site.
  4/ 1 hr 40 min - Once there, take time to admire this geological gem in the heart of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, before heading back down, taking care to cross the cross-country ski trails. Return to Sardières Le Lotissement, then take the road down to the D83.
  4/ 2 hrs 15 mins - Sardières Nordic Chalet.