Grand tétras walks

The Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura at 1,720 metres, offers an exceptional view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, with Mont Blanc as a bonus.

This hike will take you from one alpine chalet to another on Mont d'Or.

Short hike with magnificent views of Reculet, Crêt de la Neige and Mont Blanc (in clear weather). Moderator's addition on 07/08/2021: Since this hike was created, the trail for the return seems to have deteriorated and some hikers have preferred to do the round trip. See reviews

Offers an unforgettable view of Lake Geneva, Geneva and its water jet, and Mont Blanc in the background.

Tour of the chalets of the Col du Sac and Varambon via the Crêtes du Sorgia - 360° view at the Crêt de la Goutte with orientation table to discover the Monts d'Ain, Lake Geneva and its water jet, the start of the Jura mountain range, the Swiss and French Alps including the Matterhorn in good weather and the majestic Mont Blanc.

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)

Plateau of the Jura mountain range, overlooking the valleys of Bellegarde sur Valserine and Fort l'écluse. The highest point of the Crêt de la Goutte offers a 360° panorama of the Jura Natural Park and Lake Geneva on the Geneva side, with a horizon dominated by the Alps, including Mont Blanc.

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.

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

The Rando des Passeurs in Chapelle-des-Bois changes its route every year. For those who are unable to do it in June, here is a hike that takes you through Mont-Noir and Risoux on trails used by the Passeurs de Chapelle-des-Bois. ⚠️ From 15/11 to 15/03: This hike crosses Nordic ski trails that are groomed in winter. Out of respect for skiers and the work of the ski patrollers , we kindly ask you not to walk on the trails.

Open from 1 December to 30 March A lovely walk through the forest in the nature reserve leading to a viewpoint offering views of the Alps, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. Hiking in the nature reserve - Dogs not allowed - Most of the route is located in a wildlife quiet zone, so it is mandatory to follow the markings.

A family trail starting from Les Rousses, offering views over the peat bog on the edge of Lac des Rousses.

This moderately difficult hike will allow you to discover unspoilt nature and a unique panorama from the Cuchet viewpoint. In autumn, the colours are sublime...

A superb hike starting from the Chapelle des Bois with beautiful countryside and forest landscapes, not to mention the Lac des Mortes and Lac de Bellefontaine. In winter, this circuit can easily be done on snowshoes, allowing you to discover the frozen lakes. ⚠️ From 15/11 to 15/03: This hike crosses Nordic ski trails that are groomed in winter. Out of respect for skiers and the work of the ski patrollers , we kindly ask you not to walk on the trails.

Here is a second circular route to reach the Reculet (the first route can be seen here). You will be able to enjoy numerous views of the Valserine Valley and Lake Geneva (including Geneva and Mont Blanc). I can only say one thing: the landscapes are truly magnificent.

This is a very popular hike to the Croix du Reculet, the second highest peak in the Jura, offering superb views of Geneva, Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the entire Alps in good weather. For geocachers, there are a few caches along the hike.

On a 9.5 km route around the lake, three separate interpretation stations allow you to discover this natural site in Grandvaux. To be done on foot, with good walking shoes or snowshoes when there is enough snow.

The shores of Lake Bellefontaine with a possible detour to the La Roche Bernard viewpoint (2 km round trip) to continue along the shores of Lake Mortes followed by the stream, village and forest of the same name.

A beautiful winter snowshoe hike.Once you reach the summit, which looks a bit like a sugar loaf (1,545 m), you will discover a 360° panorama (the Haut Jura mountain range and, of course, Mont Blanc in good weather).Please note that depending on snow conditions, there may be a risk of avalanches at the Crêt de Chalam. Beginners should refrain from climbing to the summit; the view is already very beautiful and safe from the plateau just before the summit.

There are several viewpoints to discover along the French-Swiss border, allowing you to return more calmly via the Madone peat bogs. ⚠️ From 15/11 to 15/03: This hike crosses Nordic ski trails that are groomed in winter. Out of respect for skiers and the work of the ski patrollers , we kindly ask you not to walk on the trails.

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.

The aim of this hike is to reach Crêt de Chalam (1,545 m) from Chézery-Forens, covering a circular route of approximately 14 km. Although the path to the summit is a little steep, the return journey is gentler but longer.

After leaving the village of Champfromier and all its amenities, walk through pastures and forest paths. The highlight of this circular: the magnificent panorama from Les Avalanches over the Jura mountains.

Here is a circular route to reach Crêt de Chalam from Chézery-Forens: the outward journey follows a little-known route via Montagne des Moines (you won't meet many people). The return journey follows the "classic" route.

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.

This is a fairly challenging circular trail around the Combe d'Orvaz: the main points of interest are the banks of the Sémine river and its waterfalls, the plateau around the Combe d'Évuaz, and then the Roches d'Orvaz and its cirque.

In the vicinity of La Greffière, I suggest you climb to the summit of La Dôle and walk around it. Along the way, there are magnificent landscapes to discover, and with a bit of luck, you may even spot some chamois.

A circular with limited elevation gain, winding through mountain pastures, allowing you to visit three of the ridges that form the Grand Crêt d'Eau (including the highest point) and enjoy breathtaking views of the Genevois and the Alps.

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.

One of many routes to reach this distinctive summit with its radar station visible from anywhere in the Lake Geneva basin. Magnificent panorama from the Eiger to the Écrins, via Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva (orientation table). Chamois galore for early risers, rarer during the day due to high visitor numbers. Marked route, also accessible in winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis, with a few variations.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions This circular route to the ridges offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Alps, including Mont Blanc, as well as the entire Lake Geneva region and the Jura.

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.

An easy hike covering varied landscapes of pastures, forests and lakeshores, with two viewpoints offering beautiful views of the Jura plateau.

A superb hike, easy to follow (excellent signposting), with no particular difficulties, well worth doing for the magnificent panoramic views it offers over most of the route.

A circular route on the Grand Crêt d'Eau massif at an altitude of 1,600 metres, passing through pine forests and crossing a large hilly plateau with views of the Mont Blanc massif, among other things. Moderator's warning: route presents a risk of avalanches.

Open from 1 December to 30 March - subject to the opening of the Vattay Nordic Centre This hike on the Jura plateau, in a vast area dedicated to Nordic activities, takes us to the summit of La Gélinotte, where the view of the Alps and Mont Blanc is absolutely superb. The signage (purple stakes and signposts) is very well done.A very beautiful route in the Vattay area, crossing the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve (you must comply with the regulations in force). There is an admission charge to access the Vattay site.

From Bellefontaine, located at an altitude of 1,000 metres in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, straddling France and Switzerland in the Risoux Massif, you will discover exceptional panoramic views from La Roche Bernard (1,290 metres) and La Roche Champion, over the Val de Mouthe, the lake plateau and the Mont Noir forest. The route climbs 300 metres and requires a good level of fitness.

In the Jura forest, visit a lodge between Chaux Neuve, Chapelle des Bois and Foncine.

The aim of the route is to reach the Crêt de la Goutte via the Crête du Fort l'Écluse. The main difficulty will be encountered during the ascent; the slope is quite steep up to the red and white high-voltage pylon, and at times you will need to use your hands (avoid this when descending and on wet ground). From Chalet Bizot, the route is straightforward.

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.

This circular route will take you to Reculet, the second highest peak in the Jura. Although 2 metres lower than Crêt de la Neige, it is more picturesque. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views all the way to Mont Blanc. The return journey takes you along the banks of the Valserine, one of the wildest rivers in France.

Above Bellefontaine lies the Bois de Chaux Mourant forest. From the Roche Devant viewpoint, you can see the Risoux massif.

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

This circular route will allow you to discover some aspects of the Jura around the town of Saint-Claude. From the Gorges de l'Abîme, you will take a path towards Crêt Pourri, then after crossing a few slopes, you will reach a plateau. On the way back, you will admire the charming hamlet of Vaucluse. 31/01/2024: Route modified following a municipal decree prohibiting access to the Gorges de l'Abîme, see practical information.

The Croix de la Bèche trail passes through the villages of La-Rivière-Drugeon and Bouverans, allowing you to explore the Drugeon Valley and the Montagne du Laveron, passing by the shores of Lac de l'Entonnoir.

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.

Alternating between pastures and high-altitude forests, this trail allows you to enjoy the varied landscapes of the Haut-Doubs. It leads you to the Vieille Citerne de Bonnevaux, passing through the communal lands of the Côte de Bonnevaux, where you can admire a magnificent panorama of the Frasne plateau and the mosaic of forests, peat bogs and pastures.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. This easy-to-access, varied trail, dotted with natural curiosities, enters a preserved forest. It then leads to the Turet viewpoint for a spectacular panorama of Gex, the Lake Geneva plain, Mont Blanc and the surrounding ridges. Starting from the Col de la Faucille, this family hike offers a rejuvenating immersion in nature. The biodiversity here is remarkable. After a gradual, gentle climb, the Turet viewpoint reveals an exceptional panorama of Gex, the Lake Geneva plain and, on a clear day, the majestic Mont Blanc. The return journey follows the same route. In winter and spring, this area is subject to special restrictions, which are essential for the preservation of sensitive species (access is limited between December and June, see regulations). Please note that dogs are strictly prohibited, even on a lead, throughout the year.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. The Menthières mountain pastures and the landscapes around the Sac chalet offer wide open spaces for a getaway in the heart of the Jura Mountains. Between forest and mountain pastures, this varied route, open from April to November, offers superb panoramic views. The trail starts from the car park opposite the Rendu chairlift, runs alongside the tree-top adventure park and then climbs towards the Col de Menthières. It passes by iconic landmarks that serve as reference points for hikers: the "Grange Velue" and the "Chalet du Sac", which offer panoramic views of Valserhône, the Retord plateau and the Alps. Dogs, even on a lead, are not allowed in this area, which is part of a nature reserve.

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.