From Catheline to Crêt de la Neige via Brulat Frésy

From Lélex, take the Catheline cable car to the top.

(S/E) From the Catheline cable car arrival point, follow the red and white marked GR®9 trail to the right, towards the Refuge de la Loge. At the first intersection, keep right and continue to the refuge.

(1) Turn left and arrive at La Brillonne d'en Haut.

(2) Continue left on the path uphill to the next crossroads.

(3) Turn left, pass a water reservoir, and continue climbing until you reach the next intersection.

(4) Take the path uphill to the ridge below Grand Crêt.

(5) Follow the GR®9 trail to the right until you reach Crêt de la Neige.

(6) Return to the cable car station (S/E) via the same route you took on the way up.

Operational in July and August - while the Catheline cable car is open

Follow the GR®9 trail markers carefully to avoid entering the quiet zone if it is active (from 15 December to 30 June).

Safety instructions:
This route crosses part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Please respect the regulations here
Among these rules: dogs are not permitted, even on a leash!

Picking plants and collecting minerals is prohibited.

The trail crosses a Quiet Zone, which is closed from 15 December to 30 June.
An exception is made for 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, guidebook, 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, call112 (European emergency number).

This route borders an alpine pasture where patous are present:
The patou or guard dog: How should you behave? When hiking, it is common to encounter flocks of sheep or goats guarded by guard 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 at all times, 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 dog, 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.

For more information:
Pasto Kezako
Map Patou, where are the guard dogs?
The awareness toolkit

The Catheline cable car in Lélex operates every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July and August. Subject to favourable weather conditions. More information here: Catheline cable car / Lélex

- Enjoy the view at Crêt de la Neige (6).