From Crozet to Crêt de la Neige, at the top of the Jura peaks

Depart from the car park at the lower station of the Fierney cable car.

(S/E) From the car park, head north-east and pass under the cable car line. Join the Route de la Thène and follow it to the right.

(1) Take a footbridge on the left and follow a steeply ascending path. The single path crosses a stream and quickly joins the Col de Crozet forest road.

(2) Cross the Grande Route Forestière du Pays de Gex and continue straight ahead uphill. Ignore a path on the right and then one on the left.

(3) Cross a forest track twice in succession, continue uphill and rejoin the forest track.

(4) Follow the track to the left and, very quickly, turn right onto a path. Continue uphill until you pass under the cable car line and reach a mountain restaurant.

(5) Then turn right and pass under the cable car line again.

(6) Go around the upper station of the Fierney cable car on the right and head towards the Bergers combined ski lift line. Turn right directly above the line and then pass underneath it. Climb and pass under the combined ski lift line twice more. You will reach an intersection.

(7) Then turn right towards Montoiseau. Head west, then veer right to reach the summit of Montoiseau.

(8) Then turn left. At the intersection that appears shortly afterwards, turn left again. Cross the Combe à Fournier, head south-west and leave the summit of Montoisey on your right.

(9) Join a track and turn sharply left to follow a path towards Grand Crêt and enter the Haute Chaîne du Jura Nature Reserve. Walk south-west to reach the summit of Grand Crêt.

(10) Descend on the other side and you will soon reach the "Sous le Crêt" intersection (panoramic view).

(11) Continue straight ahead (south-west) to Crêt de la Neige.

(12) Return via the same route in the opposite direction to the starting point (S/E).

Information on the rules in force: rnn-hautechainedujura.fr

▶ This route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Please respect its regulations.

Among the rules to observe:
Dogs are strictly prohibited, even on a leash.
Picking plants and collecting minerals is also prohibited.

The trail crosses a Quiet Zone, which is closed from 15 December to 30 June.
An exception is made for the use of the GR® trail, provided you stay strictly on the marked path. It is forbidden to leave the path.

▶ Before setting off:

Check the general and local weather forecast to ensure there will be no precipitation
Find out about the approach walk, the height of the route, the walking time, and possible escape routes (IGN map, GPS, topo guide, etc.)
Assess the possible risks by consulting mountain professionals, refuges, lodges
Inform a friend or family member of your plans and contact them again in case of any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with each person's telephone number, vehicle(s), parking
Avoid setting off alone. Use equipment that is suitable for the activity, properly adjusted and in good condition, including a head torch, a complete first aid kit, a survival blanket, etc.
In case of an emergency, call 112 (European emergency number).

▶ Patou or guard dogs: How should you behave?

When hiking, it is common to encounter flocks of sheep or goats guarded by protection dogs, called Patous. These dogs, which are formidable against predators such as wolves, bears and lynxes, can frighten hikers with their barking.
The Patou protects the flocks completely independently. Its main role is to deter intruders and alert the shepherd. Raised among the sheep from an early age, it learns to protect them constantly, often in groups.

▶ To avoid problems with a patou:

Identify grazing areas before setting off.
Keep your distance and go around the flocks if possible.
If you encounter a herd, remain calm, turn around slowly or stop to let the dog sniff you.
Do not attempt to pet or feed the animals, avoid sudden movements, do not run, and avoid taking photos.

▶ For trail runners:

Do not run when approaching a herd.
Remove your headphones so you can hear the dog barking.

By adopting these behaviours, you will be able to coexist peacefully with guard dogs during your hikes.

The Fierney cable car is open on certain days during the summer. For exact dates, visit the Tourist Office website .

It provides easy access to the Haute Chaîne du Jura.