Journans (rivière) - Affluent du Lion walks

Je vous propose de réaliser un parcours en boucle au départ des environs du Col de la Faucille (parking du Pailly) afin d’accéder au Colomby de Gex : à l'aller le tracé évolue sous les Monts Jura et au retour sur ses crêtes avec une succession de montées et descentes. Certaines parties du parcours sont situées en zones de quiétude de la faune sauvage et il ne sera ainsi pas possible de le parcourir du 15/12 au 15/05 (à lire ci dessous)

A challenging approach to a summit offering a 360° view of Lake Geneva, the Alps and the Jura. The Pas de L'Échine, a tricky and steep but very popular passage, provides direct access to the ridge in a beautiful setting. The best time to visit is in May, when it is still partially snow-covered and you have to squeeze between the snow and the rock face. However, it is strongly advised not to venture onto the nearby slopes, which are very exposed.

Partly running alongside the River Journans, the path passes through the canyon of the mysterious Portes Sarrazines. This trail, with its lush and varied landscapes, is situated in a protected area. This pleasant walk, accessible from April to November, follows the course of the River Journans. The ‘Au fil du bois’ interpretive trail highlights human activities linked to the forest and water. Finally, the Portes Sarrazines, which frame a gorge carved out by the river, take their name from a local legend: the inhabitants of Gex are said to have taken refuge behind these stone gates during Saracen invasions in the Middle Ages. The route offers a variety of landscapes, alternating between forest paths, roads and steeper sections. Access is restricted; dogs are not permitted within the Reserve.

An easy walk centred on the Journans and its ‘little brother’, the Petit Journans. Born from the torrential streams of the Creux de l’Envers valley, the Journans rushes down the slopes of the Jura. It then flows through the northern part of the Pays de Gex before joining the Lion in the commune of Saint-Genis-Pouilly. This circular route largely follows the river’s course but also takes in the surrounding countryside.

Ascent to the Colomby de Gex via the Chalet de Branveau and its cirque, where it is common to spot numerous chamois. The descent via the Pas de l’Echine is a little technical at the start. Return to Gex via the Creux de l’Envers, taking the footpath rather than the somewhat monotonous Chemin Neuf. A circular walk offering lovely panoramic views over the Lake Geneva basin and the Haut-Jura mountain range.

Hike accessible from 17 April to 30 November. Set off on a hike to Colomby de Gex (1,682 metres above sea level), with superb views of Mont Blanc and the Geneva basin. This circuit, emblematic of the Grande Marche Populaire de Gex, follows the ridges of the Haute Chaîne before descending into the forest along the Journans. The route passes through varied landscapes: mountain pastures, deciduous and coniferous forests. It runs through the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and, in part, the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, a protected area that must be treated with respect. Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this remarkable environment.

Hike accessible from 16 May to 30 November. Set off from Gex on a loop to the Col de Branveau, passing through the Platières mountain pastures. Formerly part of the Petite Marche Populaire de Gex, this varied circuit offers beautiful views of the Haute Chaîne du Jura and the Alps. It passes through forests of deciduous and coniferous trees before a refreshing descent along the Journans. An accessible and enjoyable hike between ridges, mountain pastures and undergrowth.Part of the route is located in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve: dogs are not permitted, even on a lead. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this remarkable environment.