From La Faucille to the summit of Colomby de Gex

(S/E) From the centre of La Faucille, head towards the Petite Chaumière hotel, then towards the ski lift chalet. Go up towards the "Luge sur rail" building, then turn right onto the tarmac road towards "Tyrolienne". This is the GR®9. Ignore the Route de la Vielle Faucille on your right.

Walk along the tarmac road. At a wide bend, at the hiking sign, take the path that climbs through the woods towards "Grand Montrond". The path then leaves the forest and joins a ski slope, keeping to the right (Gelinottes ski lift).

(1) Continue alongside the Gelinottes ski lift and follow the GR® until you reach the Vie de Chaux crossroads.

(2) Keep right towards Grand Montrond. Keep left at the first crossroads, then climb left towards Grand Montrond.

(3) Turn right. Follow the south-southwest ridge. Continue along the ridge for the final ascent of Colomby de Gex.

(4) Return to the starting point via the same route. (S/E)

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions

Safety instructions:
This route crosses part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, so please respect the regulations.
https://www.rnn-hautechainedujura.fr/

These rules include: No dogs, even on a leash!

Picking flowers and collecting minerals is also prohibited.

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

- Different panoramic views from the ridges.