Favourite Dog Walks In Morzine & The Surrounding Area
As a full-time dog care professional, I spend a lot of my life on foot, and I’ve learned that walking is truly the best way to get to know a place. With thousands of paths and trails to choose from, it can feel a little overwhelming - and it’s hard to know where to start! Especially if you’re looking for a casual dog walk rather than a full-blown hike.
That being said, the mountains are an incredible place to spend time with your dog. Fresh, crisp air, vast open spaces, spectacular views, and endless new scents and corners to explore make every outing a little adventure. I’ve put together a list of my favourite walks from everyday dog strolls to longer adventures - all from a local’s perspective.
1. Crapahaute - Chardonniere, Morzine.
Quick summary: Not steep, easy access, great views, access to water, good for the whole family.
This little leg stretch can take around an hour, depending on walking speed and how much your dog loves to sniff! Start by parking close to the Crapahaute. When facing down the valley, you’ll see a path on your left. Follow this small fire road flanked by the river for about 20 minutes. Enjoy being sandwiched between the mountains, and if you’re there early enough, watch out for some spectacular birds of prey (careful of a steep drop on the right).
At the crossroads, cross the bridge on your left and take a right, following the path through the trees with the river now on your right. You’ll end up in a small parking area, which is also a popular spot for wild camping if that’s your thing! Head up the footpath with the Bostan ridgeline ahead. You’ll pass a small hut with a trough and eventually reach a bowl with fenced areas for livestock in warmer months. Enjoy the views, bird song, and sound of running water before heading back.
You can retrace your steps or, at the bridge, take a small path through the bushes (directly in front of you) that leads back to the road just up from Crapahaute. This path may not be accessible year-round due to snow, but even retracing your steps is a lovely walk. Finish at Crapahaute for a hot chocolate or their incredible lunch menu. This is a shared path, be mindful of ski de fond in winter and mountain bikes in summer.
Starting/parking point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XaCzwnzSTZc9N6cR6
2. Tete de Elephant - The Elephants head (La Chaux), Saint Jean D'Aulps.
Quick summary: Steep but short, incredible views of Mont Blanc, bench at the top for picnics of dreams, shaded in summer.
This is one walk I wish I could do for the first time again - it’s a real locals’ favourite. As you drive into Saint-Jean, notice the mountain in front that looks like an elephant? That’s your destination!
Park and find the path on your left when facing uphill. You’ll know you’re in the right place if you see a little mobile hut on the grass and some goats in summer. Follow the winding path under the trees. About halfway, the path splits - continue straight on the dirt track rather than taking the hairpins. Pass a telephone pylon and eventually two chalets, then follow the path left to a large white cross and a bench. The views here of Mont Blanc, Roc d’Enfer, and Nyon are incredible - perfect for a flask of tea on the picnic bench.
Return the same way. On days with a cloud inversion, the view is extra special. Bring water for your dog on hot days and walking poles if you like.
Starting/parking point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/m9WKj86JSo2Jw4BP7
3. Ardent Waterfall from Lac de Montriond, Montriond.
Quick Summary: Family friendly, amazing in all seasons, great shade in summer, easy parking, lots of water access. 1 hour or 1.5-2 hours.
A must for the Morzine bucket list! Park either at the near end of the lake (by Lactuel and Hotel du Lac) or the far end by L’Auberge du Bout du Lac. Parking at the far end gives amazing views of Roc d’Enfer and keeps you away from crowds, while the near end bookends the walk with a lake side stroll.
From the far end, follow the rocky road uphill to a tiny hamlet. Turn right onto the path with the ski de fond track to your left. After 10–15 minutes, you’ll reach a short steep section before arriving at the Ardent Waterfall viewing platform. Enjoy the sound of rushing water and shaded benches behind the bridge.
Return the same way, maybe stopping for a boozy hot chocolate at L’Auberge du Bout du Lac or if you are feeling really fancy - a Sunday roast at Hotel du Lac (dogs welcome, booking essential).
Starting/parking point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/i25Y3JTcpQew2vTY6
or https://maps.app.goo.gl/4T8LcikBijaHGfTB6
4. Fire Road to Graydon - Saint Jean D'Aulps
Quick Summary: Great in all seasons, partly shaded in summer, water access, lovely chapel, great for wildlife.
Ok ok, I could say this about all of them, but this is a real favourite of mine. Graydon is a very charming alpine village, with insane views, loads of marmottes in summer, and very quaint chalets to dream about living in. Graydon isn’t accessible by road in winter (depending on snow) but has road access in summer. Whatever the season, if you’re looking for about a 2-hour walk that isn’t too technical, is dog-friendly, and will make you feel a million miles away from anyone, this is for you!
Parking high up in Saint-Jean village, you will see the path on the bend in the road. Simply follow this path up until you reach some chalets. Stick to the path as it weaves between them and take in the incredible mountain views in front of you. Continue all the way until the little chapel on the hill, where you will find a perfectly positioned bench. Before turning back, why not stop at the Buvette du Roc d’Enfer for lunch or coffee? Very simple and rustic but delicious, with views of Nantaux in front of you.
Due to the remote location, paths aren’t cleared, so snowshoes may be required in winter -they can be rented from Intersport for around €20. You will find water troughs along the way and a river accessible on the left as you make your way up. Graydon is a nature reserve, so if you want to walk past the Buvette, your dog will need to be on a lead, and you should watch out for guardian dogs in summer. Before that, you are free to roam at your leisure, but always be respectful of livestock as they graze in the fenced pastures.
Starting/parking point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ss1h5CwQnvXsmfMT9?g_st=ac
5. Lac Des Écoles to Nauchets lift - Les Gets
Quick Summary: Easy Parking, great in all seasons, close to the pistes, short/under 5km, close to nature.
This there-and-back walk from Lac des Écoles in Les Gets is a lovely way to feel close to the ski action while doubling up on a dog walk. Starting at the parking point, you will clearly see the path at the far end of the car park. Begin ascending the path, which is situated to the right of the Alta Lumina - grab a sneak peek if it’s late in the evening!
You’ll make your way close to a popular ski touring spot, so keep an eye out for people whizzing past on skis. Continue along the path, and you’ll pass a mountain refuge where cows and goats roam in summer. They are friendly, but remember to be respectful and clean up after your dog, as dog mess is harmful to livestock.
Enjoy the ringing of the cowbells or crunch of the snow under-foot as you head up the hill, and you’ll see a cross on your left. Continuing on, you will reach the Nauchets chair lift and the Rosta bowl. There are toilets here too. Turn around and head back to the car the way you came, taking in the lovely views of the Mt Chéry side of Les Gets.
Starting/Parking point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZaE4eXSCXqik1bdx6
6. Pleney snowshoe- Morzine
Quick Summary: Fairly flat, great options for lunch and hot drinks, family friendly, feels like an adventure, well signposted. Around 2-3 hours.
My absolute favourite to do with snowshoes in winter! Taking the Pléney telecabine to the top, be sure to have your dog on a lead and help them in and out of the gondola—it can be a little scary for them the first time.
Once at the top, carefully head towards the Viking Hotel, watching out for skiers. There you will see the raquettes route to the left of the piste. Taking in the 360° views, follow the path along until you almost reach the top. You will need to cross the piste under the Belvédère lift, close to a hut on the left and a large sign.
Continue along this path, which is a golf course in summer, until you reach the Crocus piste. Be careful as you cross to the clearly marked path on the other side. Follow this path until you reach Chavannes in Les Gets.
At this point, you can either head down to the restaurants at the top of the Chavannes lift or return the way you came - maybe stopping at Vaffieu for a mulled wine. It’s a fab restaurant, but booking is essential if you plan to eat.
This walk is a beautiful way to enjoy incredible 360° views and get your pup used to being around skiers and snowboarders, but consider keeping them on the lead if you are unsure about how they will behave. The paths are pisted, so this route is accessible for short dogs too. In summer, the golf course is absolutely stunning - not one to be missed!
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These walks are some of my favourite ways to get outside with a dog, whether you’re a local or just visiting. From lakeside strolls to mountain summits with jaw-dropping views, there’s something for everyone. Grab a leash, lace up your boots, and explore- you never know what adventures await! If you enjoyed this blog and happen to try any of these routes, id love to hear about it!!
Aimee xx
Ps. If you're visiting from Septemeber to Januray, be sure to check out the Chasseco app so you can stay up to date with the local hunting days.