Saint-Claude walks

Starting from Saint-Claude, this is a short hike in terms of distance but quite challenging during the climb up Mont Bayard. Walking poles are recommended in wet conditions.

Le Mont Chabot est une des montagnes-phare dominant la ville de Saint-Claude.Il s'agira d'accéder à sa crête en empruntant un parcours en boucle partielle permettant de visualiser de superbes points de vues sur la ville et les alentours. La randonnée est assez courte, mais attention certains passages sont relativement raides et peuvent s’avérer glissants.Attention : le parcours présenté en 2016 vient d'être partiellement remanié (lire § Infos pratiques).

A pleasant little outing to discover this waterfall, which cascades down a sixty-metre drop in two stages. These drops, each around thirty metres high, are spectacular when it has rained. This is therefore an outing to do after a period of rain if you want to enjoy the scenery offered by one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Haut-Jura.

This hike takes you to the Queue d'Âne and Queue de Cheval waterfalls, then climbs a little to the Septmoncel area, via a good circular route that is a little physically demanding at times.Please note that some sections can be tricky due to wet ground, particularly the section between (9) and (10), which is quite steep.

A circular hike above Saint-Claude that takes you to the Cascade de la Vouivre waterfall, the Belvédère de Cinquétral viewpoint offering superb views of the Bienne valley and the Haut-Jura, and finally the Cascade de Pissevieille waterfall. It is best to do this hike when the snow has melted or after rain to get the most out of the waterfalls, but in this case, the use of walking poles is strongly recommended. Similarly, the climb to the Belvédère de Cinquétral is reserved for experienced walkers.

This circular route on the heights of Saint-Claude offers a magnificent view of the Gorges du Flumen and the ridges of the Haut-Jura from the Belvédère de la Roche Blanche, then takes in the village of Les Moussières before descending via the Crêt Joli and its typical Jura landscapes. The climb to La Roche Blanche is challenging and requires a high level of fitness. The use of walking poles is strongly recommended in wet weather, not only for the ascent but also, and especially, for the descent from the viewpoint (14).

This circular walk will introduce you to some of the Jura’s attractions around the town of Saint-Claude. From the Gorges de l’Abîme, you’ll take a path towards the Crêt Pourri, then, after negotiating a few slopes, you’ll reach a plateau. On the way back, you’ll be able to admire the charming hamlet of Vaucluse. The Gorges de l’Abîme route has been accessible again since 4 July 2026 (for the record, it was previously closed under a municipal by-law dated 4 December 2023).

This loop will allow you to discover the bottom of the Flumen valley (and its waterfalls) as well as the ridges above it.

Starting from Montbrillant, a steady climb up to Septmoncel via the Chemin des Moines, the reward being three viewpoints: two with aerial views of the town of Saint-Claude, and the third overlooking La Roche Blanche. The paths are very easy to walk on, with no technical difficulties.

This hike (which is somewhat demanding) aims to take in a varied route at different altitudes in the Bienne Valley to the north of Saint-Claude, as well as on the plateau overlooking it around Longchaumois. The route is mostly circular, passing close to two waterfalls and a cave.

A very steep section of the Sentier des Chamois trail offers views of the rugged terrain of the Flumen Gorges and the Gendarme's Hat, as well as a cool break at the waterfall. You will need good walking shoes as the slopes are steep.

I suggest a long circular route starting from Septmoncel, allowing you to discover some very pretty landscapes in the Jura.

This long route, starting from Le Lison and best undertaken in good weather, will take you all the way to Avignon-les-Saint-Claude, walking over the "Tête du Gaulois" which overlooks the Plan d'Acier industrial estate.On the way back, you can admire the Lison hillsides from the Ponthoux viewpoint and cool off in the Lison Gorges.

The Sentier des savoir-faire is a walk where you use your hands! Stroll along with your nose in the air and your mind alert on this unusual trail. You’ll uncover the mysteries of the Jura artisans’ skills and gain a deeper appreciation of the values associated with them.

A route for the eyes but also for the ears. No fewer than three viewpoints with superb views of the villages of Ravilloles and Leschères, and to top it all off, one of the most beautiful acoustic sites in the Haut-Jura, where you can discover the pleasure of listening intently during this walk. PLEASE NOTE:The GR®9is closed to all traffic, including pedestrians, from 15 July to 15 December 2020 due to forestry work between "sur la côte" (9) and "sur le château" (1).

From the Lavans-lès-Saint-Claude fitness trail, you’ll reach the lower section of the Lizon Gorges by crossing the tram viaduct. Walking alongside the Bienne, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a magnificent natural setting as you make your way to the Pas de l’Âne and the Roche Lezan. This is also a lovely route for trail running enthusiasts.

A few kilometres from Saint-Claude, beautiful beech forests, a 70-metre-high waterfall, an unusual cave and the magnificent Belvédère de la Corbière viewpoint.

Sixteenth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. For this last stage, you will reach Septmoncel before beginning a long descent along the Chemin des Moines to the Gorges du Flumen. Walking along the Flumen, Grosdar and Tacon rivers, you will arrive at Saint-Claude, nestled in the Jura Mountains at the confluence of the Bienne and Tacon rivers. Saint-Claude is not only the capital of briar pipes: heir to a long tradition of craftsmanship, the town has built a reputation for woodturning and diamond and gemstone cutting. Tucked away at the bottom of its valley, the town stands out for its rugged natural environment and unique heritage attractions, such as Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Pipe and Diamond Museum, Le Monde des Automates and the Abbey Museum, a hub for lovers of modern art.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions The third and final stage of the 3-day, 2-night Crêts en combes hiking tour. Starting from Lélex, this circular route combines the main GTJ route with the suggested alternative via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille. The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the ridges of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking landscapes. On one side, the view overlooks the ridges, on the other, it overlooks Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly in the Haute Chaîne Nature Reserve, the hike takes place in a preserved natural area. The trail is marked with GR® (red and white) signs.

The walk starts from the centre of Lamoura and enters the small Combe d'Arbey, divided into two parts by a wooded ridge. This rocky ridge separates the route into two distinct parts: the outward journey is on the eastern slope and the return journey is on the other side, along the cross-country ski trail.

Leaving the village and crossing the woods via the Sentier des Amoureux trail, you will discover Lake Lamoura, set in lush green countryside punctuated by the red hues of the surrounding peat bog, where the waters of the highest natural lake in the Jura mountains glisten. The trail goes around the lake. A wooden deck allows you to cross the wetlands and bog without damaging these fragile environments.

A gentle walk covering a good distance but with very little elevation gain. Feeling the icy crust of the snow crack in the morning under the weight of our first steps is pure bliss, a blank canvas that we delight in scribbling on with our eager snowshoes.

A lovely circular walk passing through the Crêt Pela (the highest point in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region and the Jura department). It offers varied scenery, including walks through typical forests and the open landscapes of the Combe du Lac, as well as a stunning view over a succession of mountain ranges stretching as far as the Swiss Alps. Please note: theroute is closed from 15 December to 30 June between (5) and (8) to ensure the preservation of these forests, which provide a habitat for many protected species in the massif: capercaillie, hazel grouse, pygmy owls, Eurasian lynx, etc.See here.

A beautiful route offering magnificent views over Lake Lamoura and the Serra ski resort. Part of the route is in the Haut Jura APPB area, see practical information.

Short, easy hike, mostly through forest, leading to La Vigoureuse (1,335 m) with views of the Valserine and Mont Blanc (on a clear day). On the way back, opportunity to swim in Lake Lamoura.

This is a circular route without great difficulty that takes you through the pretty mountain pastures around the village of Lajoux, with beautiful views of Lake Lamoura and the Jura mountain range. The route can easily be lengthened or shortened thanks to the many trails in the area.

There is little elevation gain and lots of forest for this walk, which is recommended in summer on the Jura plateau.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. From Bellecombe to Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne: the second stage of the four-day walking tour “La Valserine enchanteresse”. La Valserine is no fairy, but she enchants with every step. Her magical valley guides us between the high plateaus and ridges of the Jura, offering breathtaking views of the Alps. A journey through wild nature and poetry.

On this fairly challenging route, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and sounds of the Bienne valley. A fairly challenging route, but the scenery is well worth the effort.

Around Lac d'Antre, its sinkhole and the resurgence of the Héria, one of the most important sanctuaries in Gaul was established between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. It is through the cult of water that I invite you to discover the ancient city of Antre, its Gallo-Roman remains, its resurgences and its cliff perched 962 m above the lake, Please note: due to bad weather and tree-felling work around Lake Antre, access around the lake and to the Belvédère is prohibited. When facing Lake Antre, you must head for points (3) and (6) and avoid points (1), (2), (4) and (5).

Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the Jura offers the chance to explore vast, pristine white landscapes. These activities provide unforgettable experiences in the heart of nature. So don’t wait any longer – if there’s snow, get your gear and gloves ready and set off to explore the snow-covered expanses of the Jura mountains.A short circular hike, easy to do on skis or snowshoes, through varied landscapes and in a wild setting.

Head for the Borne au Lion via paths that are less frequented than those starting from La Pesse. The route takes you through forests and rolling pastures typical of this region. This hike can be done on foot or with snowshoes, and the landscapes are beautiful in both summer and winter. The route is easy, with regular signposting.

Set off on an adventure along the paths in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, the Jura Sud region, the Land of Children.Perfect for families (even with small children without a pushchair).Some walks are games, others are treasure hunts, and some are tales to be lived out like adventures.The walk immerses children in an original story with clues to find and surprises.

A varied route through pastures (don’t forget to close the gates!), woodland and an ascent to the Crêt du Nerbier.

A short hike from the village of Les Bouchoux, which allows you to gain some height to see the surrounding area and take a short detour to a superb waterfall.

A leisurely walk through the valleys. The difficulty of the route depends on snow conditions; if you have to break trail, it can of course quickly become tiring. There are no technical difficulties and no tricky sections. This route is certainly less busy than the one starting from La Pesse. To reach the starting point, bear in mind that in winter the road is often snow-covered; it’s a cold spot, so snow tyres are essential.

An easy snowshoe route with remarkable views. However, conditions are more tiring if you have to break trail through a substantial layer of fresh snow.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. From Lélex, set off to conquer the highest peak in the Jura: the Crêt de la Neige, at an altitude of 1,720 metres. Following the Balcon du Léman trail, you will enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramas in Europe, with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range. Finally, you will reach Crêt de Chalam, at an altitude of 1,545 metres. This iconic summit offers a last breath of freedom, nature and wild beauty before concluding this unforgettable circular route. Part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations: dogs are not permitted, even on a lead, and camping in tents is also prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. First stage of the "La petite boucle de la Valserine" circular hiking trail, from Lélex to Chézery-Forens. From Lélex, climb up to Crêt de la Neige (1,720 m), the highest point in the Jura, with an exceptional panorama of Mont Blanc and the Alps. The stage ends at Crêt de Chalam (1,545 m). Protected area: dogs and tent camping are prohibited in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. This route, between the high plateaus and ridges of the Jura, offers magical panoramic views of the Alps from the Jura mountain range. A route combining mystery, magic and discovery... Please note that part of the hike crosses a protected area.Part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations.Dogs are not allowed, even on a leash, and camping is prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. From Lélex to Bellecombe via the Haute Chaîne: the first stage of the four-day walking tour “La Valserine enchanteresse”. La Valserine is no fairy, but she enchants with every step. Her magical valley guides us between the high plateaus and ridges of the Jura, offering breathtaking views of the Alps. A journey through wild nature and poetry.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. This route, overlooking the upper Jura mountain range, is accessible to all hikers and offers panoramic views of the Valserine valley, including Lélex, and the upper Jura mountain range.

Open from 1 December to 30 March. A balcony hike with beautiful views of the Valserine Valley and the village of Lélex, overlooked by the high Jura mountain range. The trail winds gently through meadows and forests on a pleasant climb. As you gain altitude, the view gradually opens up to the Truchet viewpoint, perched at an altitude of 1,187 metres. From there, you can take in the Haute Chaîne du Jura, with views of the peaks from Colomby de Gex to the Reculet cross. The Jura mountains can be seen from a different angle, with colours that change with the seasons. The return journey follows the same route, offering a new perspective on the valley.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura mountains and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range. These wild spaces full of surprises and wonders will make this hiking trip unforgettable. Part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations: dogs are not allowed, even on a leash, and camping in tents is prohibited. Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. First stage of the three-day multi-day hike "Le balcon du Léman". An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura Mountains and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, set against a backdrop of spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range. These wild areas, full of surprises and wonders, will make this multi-day hike unforgettable.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. Accessible to all, this beautiful walk follows the Valserine, whose cool, clear waters meander through lush green surroundings. This pleasant walk along the water is open from April to November. It borders the first classified wild river in France, which gave its name to the valley. The Valserine has shaped the landscape with its floods and punctuated the lives of the inhabitants, as evidenced by the remains of several mills and the region's stone-cutting tradition. The route passes through woodland paths, meadows and duckboards, and is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Open from 1 December to 30 March. Put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the famous Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura mountains, offering spectacular scenery!

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions This tour offers a varied and challenging route, from the banks of the Valserine to the highest peaks of the Jura, with sublime views of the Alps, Lake Geneva and the Jura mountains. Starting from Lélex, the path runs alongside the Valserine and its peat bog before beginning the ascent of the Reculet (1,719 m) and the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif at 1,720 m. On the way back down to Lélex, note the remains of old buildings, evidence of the alpine farming tradition of the Jura Mountains.

I suggest a long hike from Lélex to Borne au Lion to discover the beautiful landscapes of the Haut Jura.

A less frequented and less direct approach to the highest point in the Jura than the traditional routes. Once you reach the ridge, you'll find yourself back among people, and the descent offers several options depending on the ski slopes.

Accessible from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. The official route of the hike called "De Crêts en Combes depuis Lélex" (From Crests to Valleys from Lélex). This route is part of the official GTJ (Grande Traversée du Jura) itineraries. This large circular route offers an immersion in the iconic landscapes of the Haut-Jura: crossing the Hautes-Combes, the Valserine valley and the Haute Chaîne ridges. The route alternates between views of the Jura mountains, Lake Geneva and the Alps, in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. Protected area: part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November - subject to snow conditions First stage of the 3-day, 2-night Crêts en Combes hiking tour.Starting from Lélex, this circular route combines the main GTJ route with the suggested alternative via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille.The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the peaks of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking landscapes. On one side, the view overlooks the ridges, on the other, it overlooks Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly in the Haute-Chaîne Nature Reserve, this hike takes place in a preserved natural area.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. From the wild Valserine valley to the balcony of Lake Geneva, this route immerses you in the authenticity of the Haut-Jura. As you cross the Hautes Combes, you will be struck by the raw beauty of the wide open spaces, the silence of the deep forests and the open horizon of the plateaus. The trail climbs gradually, revealing exceptional panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range. A life-size immersion in a land of traditions and high-altitude landscapes.Please note – Protected areaPart of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not permitted, even on a lead.Camping in tents is prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. From Lélex to Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne: first stage of the two-day hiking tour "On the roof of the Jura mountains". From the wild Valserine valley to the balcony of Lake Geneva, this route immerses you in the authenticity of the Haut-Jura. As you cross the Hautes Combes, you will be struck by the raw beauty of the wide open spaces, the silence of the deep forests and the open horizon of the plateaus. The trail climbs gradually, revealing exceptional panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range. A life-size immersion in a land of traditions and high-altitude landscapes.Please note – Protected areaPart of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not permitted, even on a lead.Camping in tents is prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to there being no snow. Fourth stage of the GRP® de la Valserine. From Lélex, the trail climbs through the forest to the Chalet de la Loge, the gateway to the nature reserve. The ascent then eases off through clearings and woodland to the ridges, where an exceptional panorama opens up over Lake Geneva, the Alps and Mont Blanc. The route crosses the massif’s two highest points: the Crêt de la Neige (1,720 m) and the Reculet (1,718 m), before skirting the Roche Franche cirque. After the Chalet du Gralet, the forest accompanies you for the final few kilometres to Menthières. Protected area: dogs and tent camping are prohibited in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve.

This moderately difficult walk will take you through unspoilt countryside and offer a unique view from the Cuchet viewpoint.In autumn, the colours are stunning...

Open from 1 April to 30 November (subject to there being no snow) Second stage of the Grande Traversée du Jura walking route: from La Borne au Lion to Culoz, in 6 days. The GTJ links Mandeure (Doubs) to Culoz (Ain) in 15 to 20 days, crossing the Jura Mountains and the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. The route proposed here corresponds to the second half of the itinerary. The route winds through the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve: a protected area to be explored with respect. Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Dogs are not permitted, even on a lead, and camping in tents is prohibited. Please respect these rules to preserve this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. From the Refuge de la Loge to Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne: the second stage of the three-day multi-day hike “Le balcon du Léman”. An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura Mountains and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps as a backdrop, via the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range. These wild areas, full of surprises and wonders, will make this multi-day hike unforgettable. Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are prohibited, even when kept on a lead, as is camping in tents.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to there being no snow. The section from the Refuge de la Loge to La Poutouille is the second stage of the six-day walking tour “La GTJ from Mijoux”. The GR® 9 enters the Ain department via Mijoux, before following the spectacular ridges of the Monts-Jura, passing through the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif. It then descends towards Bellegarde-sur-Valserine, crosses the Retord plateau and climbs the Grand Colombier. The trail continues its route to Culoz and the Rhône Valley, before leaving the Ain to reach Savoie and continuing southwards. Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are prohibited, even when kept on a lead. Camping in tents is also prohibited. Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. From the Refuge de la Loge to Lélex via the Haute Chaîne: the final stage of the four-day multi-day hike “La Valserine enchanteresse”.From the enchanting Valserine to the summit of the Jura, this route through the high plateaus and ridges of the Jura offers magical views of the Alps from the Jura mountain range. A journey of mystery, magic and discovery…Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations: dogs are prohibited, even on a lead, and camping is not permitted.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. The second stage of the hiking tour: from Mijoux to Chézery-Forens via the Haute Chaîne du Jura. Set off on a crossing of the Haut-Jura between Mijoux and Chézery-Forens, through varied landscapes of valleys, peaks and forests. Over three days, you will walk along the Jura ridges, passing by the Grand Mont Rond, the Crêt de la Neige and the Reculet, with magnificent views of Mont Blanc, the Alps and Lake Geneva. This crossing takes you to the heart of the Haute Chaîne du Jura, for an authentic experience in the heart of nature. As you will need to carry your own food, remember to bring supplies so you can enjoy this adventure to the full.

Open in July and August - during the Catheline cable car operating hours The trail follows the ridges and allows you to fully appreciate the geology and exceptional flora of the mountain range. Once you reach Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura mountains, a breathtaking view awaits you. From the upper station of the Catheline cable car (operating in summer), the trail crosses varied landscapes: spruce forests, large mountain pastures and rocky ridges, bordered by remarkable flora. With a little luck, you may spot chamois roaming the steep slopes. The ascent offers exceptional views of the Geneva basin, Lake Geneva and the Alps, dominated by Mont Blanc. Reaching the highest point of the summit ridge, at 1,720 metres, rewards hikers with an exceptional view. On the way down, the crossing of ancient mountain pastures and their remains bears witness to the centuries-old pastoral activity of the area.

Open from 15 December to 30 March, subject to the Catheline cable car being open. Put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the famous Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura offering spectacular scenery! The route is marked with purple posts for snowshoeing and is signposted for hiking all year round. This route can be accessed by taking the Catheline cable car.

An enchanting route along the ridges overlooking Lake Geneva. Start from Lélex, then take the Catheline cable car; fare: €9 in summer 2021 (open in season from Thursday to Sunday). This allows you to avoid the climb if you don’t want to tire yourself out too much. A ridge walk with little elevation gain and continuous panoramic views.

Open from 15 December to 30 March. Put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the famous Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura mountains, offering spectacular scenery! The trail is marked with purple posts for snowshoeing. This route can be accessed by taking the Fierney cable car and the Télécombi des Bergers from Crozet.

Open from 15 December to 30 March, subject to the opening of the Fierney cable car. Put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the famous Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura mountains, offering spectacular scenery!