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Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude walks
The Nerbier Cave and the Griottier Waterfall
Visorando Member
8.58 mi
+1,719 ft
-1,699 ft
5h 25
Difficult
Departure from Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude (Jura)
This route takes you to the Nerbier Cave where, in 1899, five workers were trapped by a sudden flood. A statue of the Virgin Mary commemorates the successful outcome of their rescue. You then continue on to the Griottier waterfall, nestled at the back of a wooded area. The return route takes you via the Saint-Romain Chapel, followed by a difficult descent back to the starting point.
7 Tales on a Walk: The Tender-Hearted Witch
1.66 mi
+69 ft
-69 ft
0h 50
Easy
Departure from Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude (Jura)
Welcome to the fantasy world of the Southern Jura.
On this “7 Tales on a Walk” trail, enjoy this short storytelling walk with your family and immerse yourselves in the story of the Tender-Hearted Witch.
The starting point is marked by an entrance gate (in the shape of a giant book), on which is written the type of object you’ll need to look for and follow throughout the walk.
Step through this gate to enter a world steeped in mystery.
Saint-Romain-de-Roche via Vaux-Lès-Saint-Claude
4.07 mi
+1,358 ft
-1,348 ft
3h 05
Difficult
Departure from Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude (Jura)
The route suggested, starting from Vaux-Lès-Saint-Claude, leads to Saint-Romain-de-Roche and its plateau.
It is a relatively short walk but involves a strenuous climb (somewhat challenging). As a result, it has been classified as difficult; the section on the plateau itself is fairly easy.
The remote valleys of the Enragé
5.26 mi
+1,322 ft
-1,309 ft
3h 35
Difficult
Departure from Pratz (Jura)
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.
From Jeurre to Saint-Romain de Roche (circular)
9.40 mi
+1,811 ft
-1,821 ft
5h 55
Difficult
Departure from Jeurre (Jura)
Starting from the village of Jeurre, I suggest a hike that partly follows a circular route to reach Saint-Romain-de-Roche.After a short detour to the Grotte de Nerbier, the route follows the course of the Bienne from a distance, then climbs slightly onto the plateau between Petit Châtel and Saint-Romain-de-Roche via a few winding paths.
From the Grotte de l’Enragé to the Plateau de la Roche Lezan
4.22 mi
+1,122 ft
-1,122 ft
2h 55
Moderate
Departure from Chassal (Jura)
From Molinges, I suggest you take a relatively short route to reach the Plateau de la Roche Lezan and its beautiful meadows. Along the way, the path runs alongside the Grotte de l’Enragé and its waterfalls: depending on the season, the flow may sometimes be non-existent. Please note that there are a few steep slopes in certain sections.
Grand Châtel – Saint-Romain de Roche circular loop
8.28 mi
+2,224 ft
-2,198 ft
5h 45
Difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
The proposed route, starting from Grand Châtel, aims to reach Saint-Romain de Roche via very little-used, unmarked paths and to traverse the plateau overlooking the Bienne valley.
Part of the route involves a steep climb (somewhat challenging). As a result, it has been classified as difficult. Please ensure you are wearing suitable footwear and have hiking poles.
The section on the plateau is fairly easy and offers some lovely views.
Circular route between Lavancia and Sièges via the Belvédère des Roches
7.21 mi
+1,890 ft
-1,919 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Lavancia-Epercy (Jura)
I suggest you try a simple but enjoyable walk starting from Lavancia, which mainly follows a path through the woodland: the route leads to a lovely viewpoint and then returns via the hamlet of Sièges, with limited difficulty (a slightly exposed section near a cliff, plus a few sections with steep or very steep slopes).
From the Lizon Tram Viaduct to the Pas de L’Âne
7.76 mi
+1,027 ft
-1,027 ft
4h 30
Moderate
Departure from Lavans-lès-Saint-Claude (Jura)
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.
The Scia viewpoint
8.25 mi
+1,112 ft
-1,099 ft
4h 45
Moderate
Departure from Pratz (Jura)
Set off to explore the Scia viewpoint.At an altitude of 800 metres, this remarkable natural site offers views across the entire Lizon Plateau near the Annuelle Forest (GR®® trail). It features an orientation table and picnic facilities.Then head to another natural site: Lac d’Antre.
Ferme du Crime - Lake Antre
5.59 mi
+804 ft
-781 ft
3h 15
Easy
Departure from Pratz (Jura)
Walk in the forest with a view of Lake Antre and the Jura Mountains
The round of viewpoints in Martigna
8.61 mi
+1,063 ft
-1,037 ft
4h 55
Moderate
Departure from Martigna (Jura)
A circular route starting from Martigna and passing by four viewpoints overlooking the lakes of Chanon and Vouglans.From the top of their cliffs, the viewpoints invite us to contemplate the lush greenery and the reflections or sunsets on these lakes.
Circular route around Ponthoux starting from Lison
10.23 mi
+2,507 ft
-2,493 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Lavans-lès-Saint-Claude (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.
Circular walk from the Chancia viewpoint via Vouglans, Nezan and Jeurre
27.49 mi
+3,058 ft
-3,081 ft
4 hrs
Difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
Set against a dreamlike backdrop, between Lakes Vouglans and Coiselet, lies the climb to the Chancia viewpoint.This challenging route, exceptional for its elevation gain and technical trails, will take you along Lake Vouglans and above Lake Coiselet.Feel free to catch your breath at the viewpoint, which offers a magnificent view over the Ain Valley, before tackling the climbs.
Tour of the Bienne Valley
20.03 mi
+2,251 ft
-2,277 ft
2.5 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
Starting from Villards d’Héria, this mountain bike route descends to Lizon via Saint-Romain, then follows the River Bienne for a good dozen kilometres, before finishing with the climb up the famous Côte de Jeurre.
Circular route starting from Villards-d’Héria via Coyron, Meussia and Les Crozets
30.37 mi
+1,929 ft
-1,932 ft
3 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
A fairly challenging circular route featuring tarmac (but on quiet roads), varied forest trails and a few slightly technical sections.
Lake Antre viewpoint
5.95 mi
+1,608 ft
-1,624 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
An easy hike around Villards-d'Héria with superb views of Lake Antre, the town of Moirans-en-Montagne and Lake Vouglans.Please note that access is currently prohibited: following a landslide, access to the Lac d'Antre viewpoint is prohibited until further notice. From point (2), go directly to point (4).
Please note: there has been a forest fire between points (4) and (7) since 17/08/2025 at 7 p.m. Do not attempt this route
Viewpoint at Chatillon
7.55 mi
+1,339 ft
-1,322 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
This woodland route will take you through the woods of Chatillon to discover a little-known viewpoint over the Bienne valley and, in fine weather, a view of the Mont Jura. A fairly undulating walk along lovely woodland paths, returning via Lac d’Antre. A lovely route for trail running or mountain biking.
Villards-d’Héria – Rogna circular loop
28.46 mi
+3,698 ft
-3,694 ft
4 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
This challenging route, exceptional for its elevation gain, its long, gruelling climbs and its technical descents, will take you to two of the highest points in the Jura Mountains, separated by the Bienne Valley.
Northern part of Lake Vouglans
35.76 mi
+3,159 ft
-3,150 ft
4 hrs
Difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
How beautiful France is if you take the time to look...On this route around the northern part of Lake Vouglans, with short, fairly steep climbs and descents as well as long, gentle climbs through the forest, you’ll have the chance to appreciate just how beautiful France is, thanks to the stunning Jura landscapes surrounding Lake Vouglans.This route is quite demanding physically but not overly technical. If you can, do this route on an e-MTB.
Circular autumn loop starting from Villards d'Héria
21.13 mi
+1,795 ft
-1,811 ft
3 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
It’s a strange sight: this empty harbour, almost dry, with its stranded jetties and exposed tree roots. The low water level of Lake Vouglans means you can walk with dry feet or cycle along the banks through a somewhat lunar landscape, where the water usually lies.This mountain bike route, best enjoyed in October, will reveal a different side to Lake Vouglans, its harbour and its surroundings, adorned in their most beautiful autumn colours.
Tour of the Six Lakes starting from the Villards-d’Héria Viaduct
40.56 mi
+3,566 ft
-3,596 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
This route will take you from lake to lake: Lake Vouglans, Lake Clairvaux, Lake Étival, Lake Ravilloles, Lake Cuttura and, finally, Lake Antre.There are no fewer than six lakes to discover on this route, with some fairly steep short climbs and descents, as well as long descents and climbs through the forest, where you’ll have the chance to appreciate the beauty of the Jura Mountains.Make the most of the setting for a picnic and a swim!
Circular route of the 4 viewpoints in Moirans-en-Montagne
7.79 mi
+1,283 ft
-1,296 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
A route through the hills, with stunning views of the surroundings of Moirans-en-Montagne.Sections across the Jura mountains, with unobstructed views, interspersed with sections through the undergrowth and amongst boulders.A very varied, fairly challenging walk.
La Refrèche
7.60 mi
+1,043 ft
-1,033 ft
4h 25
Difficult
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
Hiking is often the best way to discover places – places that are all too often overlooked or simply underestimated. This new hike is proof of that, taking us to spots frequented by lovers of the great outdoors.You can admire Lake Vouglans from the viewing points, swim in its wild coves, explore a cave or simply discover the incredible biodiversity and birdlife of its vast forest.
7 tales along the way: ‘The Learned Lizards’
1.27 mi
+207 ft
-200 ft
0h 45
Easy
Departure from Lect (Jura)
Welcome to the fantasy world of the Southern Jura.
On this “7 Tales on a Walk” trail, enjoy this short, story-filled walk with your family and immerse yourselves in the tale of the Learned Lizards.
The starting point is marked by an entrance gate in the shape of a giant book, on which is written the type of object you’ll need to look for and follow throughout the trail.
Step through this door to enter a world steeped in mystery.
Cuchet viewpoint
Association / Club / Walk leader
9.87 mi
+1,877 ft
-1,883 ft
6h 10
Moderate
Departure from Choux (Jura)
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...
Lac d'Antre, its disappearance and the resurgence of the Héria
5.34 mi
+1,083 ft
-1,089 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
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).
The Way of St James from Villards d’Héria to Santiago de Compostela
1,231.39 mi
+106,063 ft
-107,326 ft
84 days
Very difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
Do you want to connect with nature, admire its beauty at the slow pace of walking, walk to get to know yourself better, get back to basics, and push yourself to new limits? Set off on an adventure along the Camino de Santiago. That’s what I’m offering you with this route. I set off from my village in the Jura (the first six stages aren’t part of the signposted routes of the Camino de Santiago) to reach Santiago de Compostela in Spain, but there’s nothing to stop you setting off from your own home to join the route at one of the stages, or starting from Le Puy-en-Velay or any other town along the way..
Villards-d'Héria - Pic d'Oliferne
14.58 mi
+2,438 ft
-1,972 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Villards-d'Héria (Jura)
First stage of the Way of St James. This first stage, starting from Villards-d'Héria, takes you up to higher ground with a superb view of Lake Coiselet and, ultimately, a peak and a castle that are well worth the detour. Indeed, the Pic d’Oliferne towers over the Ain Valley by almost 500 metres and offers a beautiful view, particularly of the Haute-Chaîne du Jura.
Circular route south of Lake Vouglans
9.38 mi
+1,286 ft
-1,296 ft
5h 25
Moderate
Departure from Lect (Jura)
A circular walk, mainly through forest, overlooking the southern part of Lake Vouglans with beautiful views of the lake, a horseshoe bend in the River Ain and the dam.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, has its old houses stretching lazily along the lake formed by the confluence of the Bienne and the Ain rivers and the Coiselet reservoir.Here, everything invites you to relax.On this walk through the hills above Chancia, you’ll be enchanted by this little corner of paradise.
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.
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.
Moirans-en-Montagne – Oliferne Castle
14.66 mi
+2,592 ft
-2,011 ft
9h 00
Difficult
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
Thisfirst stage, starting from Moirans-en-Montagne, takes you up to higher ground with a superb view of Lake Coiselet and, ultimately, a peak and a castle that are well worth the detour. Indeed, the Pic d’Oliferne towers over the Ain Valley by almost 500 metres and offers a beautiful view, particularly of the Haute-Chaîne du Jura.
The Belvédère de la Vierge in Moirans-en-Montagne
1.81 mi
+358 ft
-358 ft
1h 10
Easy
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
A short walk to help you explore the hills of Moirans-en-Montagne.
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 circular route, with some lovely views, taking you to the Pic d’Oliferne from Lac de Coiselet (Condes).There are no major difficulties to be encountered. At most, there are a few sections where caution is advised if the ground is slippery (see below).
Around Mont Robert
3.63 mi
+794 ft
-771 ft
2h 20
Easy
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
A pleasant route on the slopes of Mont Robert, interspersed with sections through the undergrowth, offering unobstructed views of Moirans-en-Montagne.
Over hill and dale around Mont Saint-Christophe
6.15 mi
+1,125 ft
-1,109 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
This route takes you over hills to the tops of cliffs, with viewpoints that invite you to contemplate the lush green countryside, and through valleys and deep, steep-sided gorges, offering cool respite and the chance to discover a natural world rich in diverse flora and fauna.
A 10 km route with some good climbs on all types of terrain awaits you from start to finish, offering a sense of tranquillity and a few panoramic views well worth capturing on camera.
Savoir-faire Trail
1.70 mi
+141 ft
-154 ft
0h 55
Easy
Departure from Ravilloles (Jura)
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.
The Couloirs circuit starting from Les Bouchoux
4.75 mi
+1,486 ft
-1,506 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Les Bouchoux (Jura)
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.
From the Regardoir viewpoint to the Roche aux Corneilles viewpoint
7.22 mi
+909 ft
-922 ft
4h 05
Moderate
Departure from Moirans-en-Montagne (Jura)
The view from the viewpoint is always impressive. Along this route, you’ll look out over the beautiful landscapes of Lake Vouglans, observe its ever-changing colours and admire its wooded shores, which have been remarkably preserved from any unsightly urban development.This route is also ideal for trail runners.
Opposite the La Sourde viewpoint, there is the Echo
7.78 mi
+1,660 ft
-1,663 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Ravilloles (Jura)
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).
La Pesse Roches d'Orvaz
8.41 mi
+656 ft
-640 ft
3 hrs
Moderate
Departure from La Pesse (Jura)
A pleasant route in the Haut-Jura, by mountain bike or on foot through pastures and forests with a panoramic view of the Roches d’Orvaz.
The Belvédère des Bourlaches viewpoint in the Vaucluse forest
5.29 mi
+702 ft
-696 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Onoz (Jura)
The view from the viewpoint is always impressive. On this route, you will overlook the beautiful landscapes of Lake Vouglans, observe its changing colours and contemplate its wooded shores, remarkably preserved from any unsightly urban development.
Crêt de Chalam and La Borne au Lion via the Combe d'Évuaz
11.15 mi
+2,362 ft
-2,333 ft
7h 10
Difficult
Departure from La Pesse (Jura)
An original route to reach Crêt de Chalam and La Borne au Lion. Passing through the Combe d’Évuaz, which is not without charm, a little way from La Pesse. A forest route offering, of course, the truly remarkable panorama from Crêt de Chalam. Descend then via Col de l’Encoche (difficult and very difficult if you’re not very agile, but a possible alternative) to reach Borne au Lion.
Please note: between (3) and (4) there is no path and brambles are present. A map or GPS is essential. Route and description amended following feedback from hikers.
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.
More walks in Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude
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