Refine your search for walks in Samognat
Samognat walks
Charmines and Oignin Waterfalls: dam, waterfalls and potholes
Visorando Member
1.11 mi
+240 ft
-236 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
A nature getaway offering breathtaking natural scenery. Once you reach the riverbank, prepare to be amazed. Numerous waterfalls and natural potholes, carved out by the water, await you. These pools are perfect for a refreshing swim and even a few jumps for the more daring. The perfect setting for a dip in crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery – a true haven of peace.
Two valleys route starting from Matefelon-Granges
7.07 mi
+1,158 ft
-1,152 ft
4h 15
Moderate
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
From Matefelon-Granges, I suggest you take a 11 km circular trail through the Ain Valley, then the Oignin Valley. Along the way, you will enjoy views of Thoire, the Château de Coiselet (private), the Saut de l'Oignin waterfall and its potholes, and finally the lake upstream.
Walk around Sonthonnax-la-Montagne
5.99 mi
+869 ft
-873 ft
3h 30
Easy
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
Between the valleys of the Ain and the Oignin, I invite you to walk in the footsteps of the Resistance fighters on an easy route, taking you first to the Chougeat plateau and then to that of Sonthonnax-la-Montagne.
The Virgin of Diesse in Oyonnax
2.58 mi
+243 ft
-240 ft
1h 20
Easy
Departure from Oyonnax (Ain)
Combining legends and panoramic views, this Vierge de Diesse circular route offers an enchanting escape into the heart of the forest. Very easy and shaded, making it ideal on hot days. The Belvédère de la Pierre du Curé offers a stunning view of the River Ain. Perfect for a family outing.
Tour of the Montagne d'Émondeaux
14.63 mi
+2,884 ft
-2,881 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Samognat (Ain)
Starting from the Coiselet dam, I suggest a good route around the Montagne d’Émondeau leading to Dortan. The route takes place mainly in a wooded area interspersed with some lovely scenery. The route is generally easy and the main difficulty is its length.Three alternative routes are available.
Circular route around the Oignin between the Coiselet and Charmine dams
6.31 mi
+646 ft
-643 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Samognat (Ain)
Circular route around the Oignin between the Coiselet and Charmine dams, offering beautiful views of the Charmine and Oignin waterfalls, and of Coiselet Castle.
The Gorges du Val d’Enfer
1.90 mi
+180 ft
-207 ft
1h 05
Easy
Departure from Izernore (Ain)
A short family walk that will take you past several points of interest along the River Oignin. The route passes through or runs alongside electricity-generating facilities managed by EDF. It forms part of the Tour de l’Oignin walking trail.
Around Oignin
7.34 mi
+453 ft
-476 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Izernore (Ain)
The route follows the course of the Oignin river on the edge of the Gorges de l'Enfer, then goes around the Lac de l'Oignin, all with some pretty nice scenery!
Pic d'Oliferne from Coisia
9.62 mi
+2,300 ft
-2,300 ft
6h 25
Moderate
Departure from Coisia (Jura)
This hike begins with a steep climb, rewarded by numerous panoramic views of Lake Coiselet. It continues along a pleasant ridge with beautiful views and ends with a visit to the ruins of the medieval castle of Oliferne, which offers a 360° view, before descending back to the starting point.
Tour of Lake Nantua
15.99 mi
+640 ft
-623 ft
2.5 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Martignat (Ain)
Lake Nantua is a lake in the Jura Mountains. Of glacial origin, it currently covers 141 hectares. The lake was designated a protected natural site in 1935. Nantua is a popular destination for tourists due to its tranquillity and fine cuisine.
Viewpoint over the Ain plain at the Pisse Vache Waterfall from Granges
13.03 mi
+2,067 ft
-2,080 ft
7h 50
Difficult
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
This easy route takes you to the small Grottes de l'Ours, before heading to its impressive viewpoint over the Ain plain, perched on the edge of a cliff 400 m above the River Ain. The route then continues through stunning forests and villages to the Pisse Vache Waterfall, which you can admire from upstream, downstream, from the front and from behind. The return to Granges follows the banks of the Ain.
Petit tour de Granges à Heyriat
4.99 mi
+1,112 ft
-1,099 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
Je vous propose un petit parcours permettant de rejoindre Heyriat à partir de Granges situé pas très loin des bords de l'Ain.
From Granges to Heyriat, Pisse-Vache waterfall and Bonbois
7.63 mi
+1,332 ft
-1,325 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
An alternative route from Granges to Heyriat, descending to Bonbois. This path is in better condition than the descent near the chapel. This route takes a short detour to the Pisse-Vache waterfall, which is featured in guidebooks. It is interesting during rainy periods but only a trickle of water when the previous weeks have been dry. Return via the village of Bonbois and along the River Ain.
The Grand Tour via Lake Genin
13.89 mi
+3,051 ft
-3,035 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Oyonnax (Ain)
I suggest a good route that takes you from Oyonnax to Lac Genin and the Prairie d'Échallon.
Throughout the route, the varied landscapes are reminiscent of a small Canada.
The main difficulty is the length of the route.
Lac Genin from Oyonnax
9.61 mi
+1,883 ft
-1,867 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from Oyonnax (Ain)
The aim of this hike is to take you to Lac Genin from the centre of Oyonnax. The route is mainly a loop. Once you arrive at the lake, you are free to spend as much time there as you like.
Boucle d'Oyonnax à la Prairie d'Échallon
15.19 mi
+3,570 ft
-3,576 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Oyonnax (Ain)
Il est proposé un parcours en boucle un peu sportif, dont la finalité est de rejoindre à partir d'Oyonnax la Prairie d'Echallon, puis de revenir via le Lac Sous les Mousses (et à proximité du lac de Viry) puis le Mont de la Chaux et la Pointe de Biez.
From Saint-Maurice d'Echazeaux to Montdidier Castle
3.88 mi
+512 ft
-515 ft
2h 15
Easy
Departure from Corveissiat (Ain)
A pleasant, easy circular walk, mainly through woodland. The charming church of Saint-Maurice-d'Échazeaux (or des Chasaux), which overlooks the confluence of the Valouse and Ain rivers, and the ruins of Montdidier Castle are worth exploring.
Pic d'Oliferne - Grand Corent
15.10 mi
+1,201 ft
-2,218 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Vescles (Jura)
Second stage of the Way of St James. A route offering beautiful views of Lake Coiselet and Lake Conflans, taking us through a few small hamlets and across woodland.
The reculée and the Roche de Châtillon
5.09 mi
+820 ft
-807 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
A magnificent hike with panoramic views of the Ain and the Jura plateaus, caves and waterfalls.
Reculée and Corveissiat Cave
1.80 mi
+384 ft
-381 ft
1h 10
Easy
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
This valley is one of the most remarkable sites in the Revermont region, with its imposing cliffs offering a magnificent panorama of the Ain Gorges and its cave, whose entrance is 30 metres high. A short route ideal for families.
From Corveissiat to the Chartreuse de Sélignac in a circular route
11.42 mi
+1,732 ft
-1,719 ft
6h 45
Difficult
Departure from Corveissiat (Ain)
Starting from Corveissiat, a circular route takes you to the Chartreuse de Sélignac, passing by some beautiful viewpoints along the way.
Saint-Maurice d’Échazeaux Chapel and the ruins of Montdidier
9.17 mi
+1,014 ft
-1,017 ft
5h 05
Moderate
Departure from Corveissiat (Ain)
A walk with beautiful views that takes us through a few small hamlets and woodland; you can see the chapel, which is currently being renovated, and find information about it.
The route is marked with yellow signposts.
Napt - The Félicien Trail
3.19 mi
+548 ft
-518 ft
1h 55
Easy
Departure from Sonthonnax-la-Montagne (Ain)
A lovely educational trail for families with two viewpoints overlooking the Ain valley.
The Pisse-Vache Waterfall
1.30 mi
+420 ft
-400 ft
0h 55
Easy
Departure from Matafelon-Granges (Ain)
Starting from the village of Bonbois, this is a refreshing walk through the forest, ideal for families. It leads to a waterfall with a rather odd name. Although… it actually suits it quite well, when you think about it. What makes it special is that you walk right underneath it – something to amuse young and old alike.
Tour of the Grand Pré in the Bois de la Gorge
1.64 mi
+190 ft
-190 ft
0h 55
Easy
Departure from Oyonnax (Ain)
A lovely little route on a mostly shaded route. No particular difficulty apart from a noticeable incline in the middle of the route. Walking poles are recommended for this section.
The Chartreuse de Sélignac circular route starting from Arnans
2.90 mi
+623 ft
-653 ft
1h 55
Easy
Departure from Corveissiat (Ain)
A beautiful view of the Chartreuse de Sélignac from the cliff overlooking it. A charming route along the surrounding wall by the river. Very passable paths. However, in wet weather, the route along the walls can be a little soggy. No problem in dry weather. A picturesque circular route.
The sails of the Landeyron
2.45 mi
+554 ft
-554 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Montréal-la-Cluse (Ain)
A family-friendly forest walk along the Landeyron with its potholes, waterfall and fording point.
Please note: in winter and after heavy rain, the ford is likely to be impassable: you will need to turn back.
Pic d'Oliferne via the ridge trails
Association / Club / Walk leader
4.96 mi
+948 ft
-978 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Vescles (Jura)
Discover Oliferne Castle via the ridge paths.
Forget the wide, uninteresting track and enjoy the pleasant paths and panoramic views, where it is practically impossible to go wrong if you follow the yellow markings.
Please note: some areas require extra attention when walking with children.
The Pic d'Oliferne
4.32 mi
+853 ft
-850 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Vescles (Jura)
Interesting viewpoint offering views of the Ain valley (Vouglans Dam, the Haut Jura mountain range and Mont Blanc in good weather).
The ruins of Oliferne Castle are now of considerable interest following restoration work carried out by volunteers.
La Pierre-qui-Vire and the Combe waterfall
4.78 mi
+1,204 ft
-1,204 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Dortan (Ain)
Starting from the workers' village of Dortan, this walk takes you through the Bois de Chatelard forest to the Pierre-qui-Vire and its rocky promontory overlooking Lac de Coiselet.
Then, in the intimacy of a rocky cirque at the end of a shady valley, you will discover the waterfall of the Ruisseau de Maissiat, which has been building a pyramid of tufa for thousands of years.
On the heights of Dortan
10.47 mi
+2,375 ft
-2,362 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Dortan (Ain)
A beautiful, challenging hike starting from Dortan, with numerous viewpoints and waterfalls.
From Lac de Coiselet to Pic d'Oliferne
7.14 mi
+1,768 ft
-1,755 ft
4h 50
Moderate
Departure from Condes (Jura)
I suggest a route that is almost a loop, with some beautiful views, to reach the Pic d'Oliferne from Lac de Coiselet (Condes).
There are no major difficulties to encounter. At most, there are a few passages that require caution if the ground is slippery (see below).
Route de la Pierre qui Vire in Dortan
5.47 mi
+1,463 ft
-1,453 ft
3h 45
Difficult
Departure from Dortan (Ain)
The aim of the hike is to complete a circular route overlooking the village of Dortan and Lake Coiselet. There are many beautiful viewpoints along the way.
Tour of Lake Genin
0.96 mi
+30 ft
-30 ft
0h 30
Easy
Departure from Charix (Ain)
This small mountain lake, situated in a clearing at an altitude of 830 m, is nicknamed ‘the Little Canada of the Haut-Bugey’. It is surrounded by tall trees that take on vibrant colours in autumn. In summer, the cool waters of the lake are a source of refreshment for walkers. In winter, covered in snow and ice, with the sun’s rays glinting off the surface, the view is undoubtedly even more beautiful! Every season will enchant you.
Chemin des Fècles and Belvédère de la Colonne
5.46 mi
+1,631 ft
-1,617 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Nantua (Ain)
Hike on the heights overlooking Lake Nantua with beautiful views of the lake.
The areas sheltered under the trees provide respite from the summer sun.
The hike can be rounded off with a refreshing dip in the lake.
Some sections are a little technical.
Circular Mont Balvay via Solomiat, Vers and Napt
7.57 mi
+1,778 ft
-1,775 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Bolozon (Ain)
A variation on the classic Mont Balvay hike, with a detour via Vers. This route offers a different perspective with a route across the plateau from Vers. The climb up to Vers through the woods is pleasant, well marked and picturesque. The descent to Napt is also very enjoyable.
Overhangs of the Ain Gorges: Bolozon - Balvay - Solomiat - Napt
7.81 mi
+1,854 ft
-1,837 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Bolozon (Ain)
This is a circular route from Bolozon, passing through pretty villages (Balvay, Solomiat and Napt) and overlooking the Gorges de l'Ain.
This is a "classic" route (often suggested in the opposite direction) that does not present any major difficulties.
The Landéron leat
4.26 mi
+1,142 ft
-1,152 ft
2h 55
Moderate
Departure from Nantua (Ain)
Hike with panoramic views of Lake Nantua and the cliffs in the first part, then descend along the Landéron, which you will cross twice.
Walk to the Belvédère de la Colonne in Nantua
1.82 mi
+299 ft
-299 ft
1h 05
Easy
Departure from Nantua (Ain)
Starting from the hamlet of La Tour, this short walk allows you to admire the magnificent Lake Nantua from the Belvédère de la Colonne without too much effort. As an added bonus, there’s also a lovely view of the town and the Nantua Viaduct.
On the heights of Chancia
6.08 mi
+1,690 ft
-1,699 ft
4h 15
Moderate
Departure from Chancia (Jura)
The village of Chancia, dating back to Roman times, stretches lazily along the lake formed by the junction of the Bienne and Ain rivers and the Coiselet reservoir.
Here, everything encourages relaxation.
On this route through the hills above Chancia, you will be enchanted by this little corner of paradise.
Lake Chanon starting from Chancia
14.53 mi
+2,654 ft
-2,651 ft
9h 00
Difficult
Departure from Chancia (Jura)
The aim is to complete a good, almost circular route across the plateaus around Montcusel and Chanon.The starting point is in Chancia: the main difficulty is the distance covered (at most, there is a short steep climb towards Lake Chanon). Along the way, there are some lovely views.
Molard de Netru from Chancia
1.94 mi
+581 ft
-581 ft
1h 25
Moderate
Departure from Chancia (Jura)
I suggest a short hike (about 1 hour) from Chancia to the small summit of Molard de Netru (491 m). There are some beautiful views to discover.
From Chancia to Montcusel in a loop
7.31 mi
+1,604 ft
-1,588 ft
4h 45
Moderate
Departure from Chancia (Jura)
From Chancia, I suggest you return to Montcusel via a pretty loop trail: first, you follow the Bienne River at a distance, then you climb a few hills with beautiful views, especially towards Lac de Coiselet.
Circular starting from Charix via Lac Genin
13.68 mi
+2,234 ft
-2,205 ft
8h 15
Difficult
Departure from Charix (Ain)
This circular route takes you through the villages of Charix and Plagne. On leaving Plagne, there are superb views of the village of Échallon and its church. Halfway along the route, a picnic stop is a must at the exceptional site of Lac Genin. The ridge path above the village of Apremont offers breathtaking views of the village. Behind you, you can see part of the town of Oyonnax. The highest point of the hike is reached at Mont Burdet at an altitude of 1,050 metres.You will need to follow the route using the .gpx track.
The ridges of Montagna-le-Templier
Tourism professional
7.17 mi
+725 ft
-728 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Montagna-le-Templier (Jura)
A lovely circular walk along the Saint-Julien forest track and the Montagna ridge with views over the Suran valley. Very few tarmac sections on this route. The best option is to take a packed lunch and find a nice spot to enjoy it.