Snowshoeing in Arosa
Crunching powder snow, snow-covered arolla pines and the silence of the Schanfigg – step by step away from the slopes.
The most beautiful way to experience Arosa slowly
Arosa lies at the end of the Schanfigg valley at around 1,800 metres – a high valley that settles into calm in winter. Strap on snowshoes and you leave the pace of the ski area behind, entering a world of snow-covered stone pine forests and wide clearings; depending on the route and conditions, the trails also pass mountain lakes. No lifts, no crowds, just the steady crunch beneath your own steps.
Around the village there are two officially signposted snowshoe routes starting in Maran as well as more than 60 kilometres of prepared winter hiking trails – from the easy loop at Untersee to the Arlenwaldweg up into Innerarosa. With an instructor from Skischule Arosa you walk where it is worth it: where the snow is still untouched and the panorama stretches from the Weisshorn to the Hörnli.
- No prior experience needed – if you can walk, you can snowshoe
- Suitable for families, beginners and experienced hikers
- Route, pace and duration tailored to the group
- Guided by local snowsports instructors
What makes Arosa special in winter
Three landscapes that shape our snowshoe tours around Arosa.
Arlenwald & Arven
In the Graubünden dialect, «Arlen» means arolla pine. The gnarled mountain pines around Prätschli and Innerarosa wear thick caps of snow in winter – the Arlenwaldweg is considered one of the most atmospheric winter trails in the region.
Panorama & winter magic
Arosa offers varied snowshoe tours through snow-covered forests, open alpine meadows and the wintry mountain landscape around Maran and Prätschalp. Depending on the route and conditions, you cross different types of terrain with impressive views of the Arosa mountains – from a relaxed loop to a demanding tour into open country.
Moonlight & silence
Without the light pollution of a city, the whole starry sky comes out in Arosa. We offer moonlight tours followed by a fondue get-together subject to availability only, not as a regular standard offer.
The signposted snowshoe routes
Two official snowshoe routes start in Maran, a third loop continues into open terrain. We choose the route to match your ability, fitness and the snow conditions – on request also on one of the more than 60 km of winter hiking trails.
| Route | Length | Elevation difference | Highest point | Walking time | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 598 · Easy Trapper Maran – Gollrad |
2,3 km | ± 40 m | 1'862 m | approx. 30 min. | easy |
| 597 · Prätschalp loop Maran – Prätschalp – Maran |
3,7 km | ± 146 m | 2'005 m | approx. 1 h 15 | medium |
| Maraner Hauptji Maran – Scheidegg – Hauptji – Maran |
7,6 km | ± 421 m | 2'238 m | approx. 3 h 20 | demanding · guide only |
How your private tour works
Brief conversation
At the meeting point, the instructor discusses your fitness, wishes and the current snow and weather conditions with you before choosing the right route.
Technique & walking
After a short introduction to snowshoeing technique, off you go – at an easy pace, with breaks for photos and views, entirely at your own speed.
Return route
The tour ends wherever suits you best – for example back at the starting point or at a mountain station with a ride down.
Practical information for your tour
Season
Snowshoe season in Arosa usually runs from December to April – thanks to the altitude between 1'739 m and 2'653 m, which ensures reliable snow. We run tours throughout the whole winter season.
Equipment & rental
You need snowshoes, poles, warm, sturdy winter boots and weatherproof clothing. Snowshoes including poles can be hired from several sports shops in Arosa from around CHF 15 to CHF 25 per day.
Safety & wildlife protection
From 1 December to 30 April, a mandatory-path rule applies in the wildlife protection zones – for snowshoers too, and dogs must be kept on a leash. Before any tour into open terrain, we always check the SLF avalanche bulletin.
Group size & meeting point
Bookable alone or in groups of up to 6 people. The meeting point is agreed individually, please arrive 5 minutes before the start.
Private snowshoeing lessons
We offer snowshoeing exclusively as private lessons – for individuals, couples, families and corporate groups, alone or in groups of up to 6 people. We recommend a duration of at least 2–3 hours, matched to your group, your wishes and current conditions. There is no fixed price list, as length and route are set individually. Snowshoe tours cannot be booked online: please get in touch by email, phone or in person.
Frequently asked questions about snowshoeing
The most common questions from our guests – answered briefly and reliably.
Do I need prior experience for a snowshoe tour?
No. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. The instructor shows you the basic technique at the start and chooses a route that matches your fitness.
Who is snowshoeing in private lessons suitable for?
For individuals, couples, families with children or small groups of up to 6 people who want to experience the winter mountains away from the slopes at their own pace.
How many people can take part in a private tour?
A private tour can be booked alone or with up to 6 people. The group hikes together with an instructor.
What equipment do I need for a snowshoe tour?
You need snowshoes, poles, warm and sturdy winter boots, and weatherproof clothing. Snowshoes including poles can be rented from the sports shops in Arosa.
What does a private snowshoeing tour cost?
For more detailed information on prices and duration, call +41 81 378 75 00 or enquire directly, as the length and route of the tour are arranged individually.
When is the best time for a snowshoe tour in Arosa?
The snowshoeing season in Arosa generally runs from December to April. Over public holidays and in the high season, an early enquiry is recommended.