Refine your search for walks in Grand tétras
Grand tétras walks
Crêt de la Neige
Visorando Member
9.75 mi
+3,291 ft
-3,271 ft
7h 20
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
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.
Chalets on Mont d'Or
Association / Club / Walk leader
8.19 mi
+1,365 ft
-1,335 ft
4h 55
Easy
Departure from Rochejean (Doubs)
This hike will take you from one alpine chalet to another on Mont d'Or.
The Crêt de Chalam
2.78 mi
+942 ft
-948 ft
2h 05
Moderate
Departure from La Pesse (Jura)
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
The Grand Montrond
5.19 mi
+1,227 ft
-1,240 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
Offers an unforgettable view of Lake Geneva, Geneva and its water jet, and Mont Blanc in the background.
Crêt de la Goutte via Le Sac and Varambon
7.07 mi
+2,346 ft
-2,326 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
La Faucille - Colomby de Gex - Mont Rond
10.22 mi
+2,890 ft
-2,894 ft
7h 15
Difficult
Departure from Gex (Ain)
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)
The water ridges
8.42 mi
+3,196 ft
-3,163 ft
6h 40
Difficult
Departure from Bellegarde-sur-Valserine (Ain)
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.
Les hauts sommets du massif du Jura depuis Lélex
Tourist office
9.96 mi
+3,081 ft
-3,100 ft
7h 15
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
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.
Family walk around Lajoux in the Jura
7.95 mi
+1,060 ft
-1,037 ft
4h 35
Moderate
Departure from Lajoux (Jura)
There is little elevation gain and lots of forest for this walk, which is recommended in summer on the Jura plateau.
Around the smugglers
9.00 mi
+1,299 ft
-1,302 ft
5h 15
Moderate
Departure from Chapelle-des-Bois (Doubs)
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.
The Belvédère du Turet from the Col de la Faucille
3.17 mi
+574 ft
-561 ft
2 hrs
Easy
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
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.
Roche Blanche on the circuit
7.67 mi
+1,106 ft
-1,109 ft
4h 30
Moderate
Departure from Les Rousses (Jura)
A family trail starting from Les Rousses, offering views over the peat bog on the edge of Lac des Rousses.
Cuchet viewpoint
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...
Tour of the Lacs des Mortes and Bellefontaine lakes, starting from La Chapelle-des-Bois
9.24 mi
+587 ft
-574 ft
4h 45
Moderate
Departure from Chapelle-des-Bois (Doubs)
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.
Le Reculet via Le Rosset, Le Gralet, and the Grotte de la Marie du Jura
9.97 mi
+3,904 ft
-3,930 ft
8h 00
Very difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
Tour of the Abbey Lake
5.97 mi
+551 ft
-541 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Grande-Rivière (Jura)
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.
Le Reculet from Tiocan
4.55 mi
+2,792 ft
-2,792 ft
4h 30
Difficult
Departure from Thoiry (Ain)
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.
Crêt de Chalam from La Pesse
6.74 mi
+1,490 ft
-1,490 ft
5 hrs
Difficult
Departure from La Pesse (Jura)
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.
Bellefontaine Lake
6.30 mi
+384 ft
-410 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Bellefontaine (Jura)
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.
Le Crêt Pela from Lamoura
7.51 mi
+1,424 ft
-1,394 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Lamoura (Jura)
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.
From La Roche Bernard to La Roche Champion near Bellefontaine
6.36 mi
+1,224 ft
-1,240 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Chapelle-des-Bois (Doubs)
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.
Crêt de Chalam from Chézery-Forens
8.94 mi
+3,287 ft
-3,274 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
The Cirque des Avalanches
7.48 mi
+1,831 ft
-1,834 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Champfromier (Ain)
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.
Crêt de Chalam via Montagne des Moines
7.04 mi
+3,232 ft
-3,215 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
Le Crêt de la Neige via Les Brulat
8.29 mi
+2,792 ft
-2,792 ft
6h 15
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
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.
Around the Combe d'Orvaz
7.19 mi
+2,064 ft
-2,064 ft
5h 05
Very difficult
Departure from Belleydoux (Ain)
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.
La Dôle circular from La Greffière
7.79 mi
+2,008 ft
-1,982 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Divonne-les-Bains (Ain)
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.
Circular at Grand Crêt d'Eau
4.62 mi
+1,345 ft
-1,375 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Lancrans (Ain)
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.
The two Montrond mountains from the Col de la Faucille
4.80 mi
+1,453 ft
-1,450 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
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.
The Borne au Lion and the Crêt du Nerbier from the Anquerne
6.86 mi
+971 ft
-942 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from La Pesse (Jura)
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.
La Dôle via Les Sonnailleys
5.56 mi
+1,430 ft
-1,414 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Divonne-les-Bains (Ain)
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.
From Lamoura to La Vigoureuse
3.93 mi
+886 ft
-876 ft
2h 35
Easy
Departure from Lamoura (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.
Circular route between Abbaye-en-Grandvaux and Château-les-Prés
8.34 mi
+1,135 ft
-1,142 ft
4h 50
Moderate
Departure from Grande-Rivière (Jura)
An easy hike covering varied landscapes of pastures, forests and lakeshores, with two viewpoints offering beautiful views of the Jura plateau.
Le Colomby de Gex from the Col de la Faucille
8.59 mi
+2,254 ft
-2,251 ft
5h 55
Moderate
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
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.
Roche Bernard and Roche Champion from Bellefontaine
11.59 mi
+2,136 ft
-2,146 ft
7h 10
Moderate
Departure from Bellefontaine (Jura)
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.
Le Grand Crêt d'Eau
6.67 mi
+1,522 ft
-1,542 ft
6 hrs
Difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
Route from La Gélinotte to La Vattay
5.43 mi
+755 ft
-755 ft
4 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
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.
Pré Poncet - Pré d'Haut lodge
5.87 mi
+810 ft
-807 ft
6 hrs
Easy
Departure from Châtelblanc (Doubs)
In the Jura forest, visit a lodge between Chaux Neuve, Chapelle des Bois and Foncine.
The Chaux Mourant woods
6.85 mi
+784 ft
-807 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Bellefontaine (Jura)
Above Bellefontaine lies the Bois de Chaux Mourant forest. From the Roche Devant viewpoint, you can see the Risoux massif.
Grand Crêt d'Eau via the Crête du Fort l'Écluse
8.75 mi
+3,717 ft
-3,730 ft
5 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Léaz (Ain)
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.
The Gorges de l'Abîme, the Crêt Pourri and the hamlet of Vaucluse
5.95 mi
+1,926 ft
-1,900 ft
4h 25
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Claude (Jura)
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).
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.
Le Reculet - La Valserine
10.63 mi
+3,947 ft
-3,970 ft
8h 20
Difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
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.
From Lélex to La Borne au Lion circular loop
14.00 mi
+2,795 ft
-2,802 ft
8h 50
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
I suggest a long hike from Lélex to Borne au Lion to discover the beautiful landscapes of the Haut Jura.
Le Crêt Pela from Lamoura
8.42 mi
+1,486 ft
-1,490 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Lamoura (Jura)
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.
Croix de la Bèche Trail
10.91 mi
+1,175 ft
-1,165 ft
6h 00
Moderate
Departure from La Rivière-Drugeon (Doubs)
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.
Bonnevaux Village Trail
4.46 mi
+663 ft
-656 ft
2h 40
Moderate
Departure from Bonnevaux (Doubs)
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.
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.
Grand Crêt d'Eau circular path starting from Farges
9.53 mi
+2,510 ft
-2,497 ft
6h 35
Difficult
Departure from Farges (Ain)
Walk on the Grand Crêt d'Eau at the far end of the Jura. The route starts at the top of Farges, passes via the Crêts du Miroir, du Milieu and de la Goutte, then descends to Menthières where you can stop for a bite to eat or a drink at the Bistrot de La Gentiane. We then head back up via Le Vélu and Le Pelaz. Beautiful alpine landscapes and views over the Pays de Gex, the Genevois, the Valserine Valley and Menthières