Refine your search for walks in Jura
Jura walks
A hike around the four lakes
Association / Club / Walk leader
7.16 mi
+387 ft
-377 ft
3h 40
Easy
Departure from Le Frasnois (Jura)
A hike to do preferentially during fall to admire the beautiful colors of the Indian summer reflecting off the lakes.
Les cascades du Hérisson / The Hérisson (Hedgehog) Waterfalls
7.53 mi
+1,388 ft
-1,411 ft
4h 40
Average
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
The walk descends the Hérisson ('hedgehog') River with its series of rapids and waterfalls, then returns via Bonlieu, passing through the Dame Blanche viewpoint, with a panoramic view over lakes Val and Chambly and the Herisson valley.
The Cirque de Baume-les-Messieurs
Visorando Member
6.66 mi
+1,555 ft
-1,555 ft
4h 25
Average
Departure from Baume-les-Messieurs (Jura)
Discover one of the most beautiful natural sites and one of the prettiest villages in the Franche-Comté.
The Pertes de l’Ain gorges
3.59 mi
+548 ft
-548 ft
2h 10
Easy
Departure from Bourg-de-Sirod (Jura)
Pleasure in cascades.
This extraordinary walk around the Pertes de l’Ain gorges sets out from the remarkable site of the old forges and is a delight for all the senses.
Along the way: The Pertes de l’Ain, gorges, cascades, the ruins of Villain castle, and the relics of an old village.
The Hérisson waterfalls in a loop
7.54 mi
+1,191 ft
-1,175 ft
4h 30
Average
Departure from Menétrux-en-Joux (Jura)
The Hérisson has a lot to offer! Its 7 waterfalls with 31 jumps: starter or dessert, depending on where you choose to start! A day to feast your eyes, literally and figuratively!
The Pic de l'Aigle
6.12 mi
+974 ft
-951 ft
3h 40
Average
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
The Pic de l'Aigle dominates the valley of the 4 lakes, offering magnificent views of the entire Jura plateau, the Vallée du Hérisson, Grandvaux and even Mont Blanc on a clear day. Starting from Lac d'Ilay, you will climb up to this splendid line of ledges and its viewpoints over these turquoise lakes.
Source of the Ain
6.19 mi
+820 ft
-840 ft
3h 35
Average
Departure from Conte (Jura)
A splendid hike between the plateau and the steep-sided valley of the Ain. This circuit offers an opportunity to discover the upper Ain valley and its unique geology, with its Vaucluse spring, waterfalls (Le Moulinet, Saut des Maillys, Moulin-du-Saut) and ruined mills, evidence of how humans once harnessed the power of water. In fact, an EDF hydroelectric plant has replaced the old Moulin-du-Saut.
La Reculée des Planches: the Cirque du Fer à Cheval
8.32 mi
+1,486 ft
-1,503 ft
5h 05
Average
Departure from Les Planches-près-Arbois (Jura)
Shaped by limestone erosion, the Reculée des Planches has a relief characteristic of the Jura karstic plateau. At the foot of the vertically rising cliffs, you'll discover the cascades and cascatelles of the Cuisance. At a leisurely pace, through bright, cool forests, you'll climb up to the ledges where no fewer than five lookouts, not forgetting the ruins of a feudal castle, offer superb views over the whole of the reculée.
Pic de l’Aigle and the Lookout Points on the Lakes
3.02 mi
+653 ft
-627 ft
2h 00
Easy
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
Very nice and easy walk above the lakes of the Jura, Maclu and Illay.
Important note regarding parking: this site is particularly busy and has three car parks numbered P1, P2 and P3. We strongly recommend parking in car park P1, which can be accessed via this link.
La Dôle from Les Dappes
4.16 mi
+1,424 ft
-1,427 ft
3h 10
Average
Departure from Prémanon (Jura)
Without doubt, the shortest path up to the summit of La Dôle (1677m altitude) from the French side of the border. In good weather, the views are breathtaking and go on for over 250km: from the Swiss Alps to Mont Blanc and on to the Vanoise and the Ecrins, all of this with plunging views down over Geneva and its lake.
Baume-les-Messieurs caves via the viewpoints
7.65 mi
+1,027 ft
-1,037 ft
4h 25
Average
Departure from Baume-les-Messieurs (Jura)
Discover the Baume-les-Messieurs valley, a family hike offering beautiful views from the viewpoints along the route, culminating in a visit to the Baume caves. Also worth seeing is the Tuffes waterfall.
The source of the Saine
9.22 mi
+1,467 ft
-1,483 ft
5h 30
Average
Departure from Foncine-le-Haut (Jura)
A trail starting out from Foncine le Haut that will take you to the source of the Saine and various viewpoints. A themed trail and a botanical trail...
The River Saine along the Langouette and Malvaux gorges
6.91 mi
+892 ft
-886 ft
3h 55
Average
Departure from Les Planches-en-Montagne (Jura)
The Malvaux and Langouette Gorges offer cool respite on hot summer days as well as magnificent scenery. This hiking route is suitable for families, with a shorter alternative (9.5 km) that does not go around Lac à la Dame. Part of the route follows the old tramway, so a head torch or torch is required to cross the 180 m tunnel.
Walk around Lake Chalain
8.89 mi
+650 ft
-646 ft
4h 40
Average
Departure from Marigny (Jura) (Jura)
A pleasant walk to do in a day. The trail runs either along the lake, overlooking it or along the edge of the rocks, with numerous viewpoints.
Hérisson waterfall and Bonlieu lake
9.65 mi
+1,053 ft
-1,053 ft
5h 20
Average
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
This magnificent hike will take you along the Cascades du Hérisson waterfalls and around Lac de Bonlieu.
Don't forget your camera, as there are some magnificent views.
Please note that from the point (4), the trail is temporarily closed due to a landslide.
Lake Vouglans - Surchauffant cliffs
8.72 mi
+1,027 ft
-1,027 ft
4h 55
Average
Departure from La Tour-du-Meix (Jura)
Discover the splendour of France's third largest reservoir with its turquoise blue waters. In this magnificent setting, walk between forests and steep cliffs with superb views of the lake.
Château-Chalon
7.08 mi
+1,115 ft
-1,122 ft
4h 15
Average
Departure from Voiteur (Jura)
Hike around Château-Chalon
Waterfalls and viewpoints around Baume-les-Messieurs
6.21 mi
+1,037 ft
-1,037 ft
3h 45
Average
Departure from Baume-les-Messieurs (Jura)
All the ingredients for a wonderful hike, and what makes the Jura so special, are here: recesses, viewpoints, caves, waterfalls and unspoilt nature.
La Quinquenouille and Dramelay
5.20 mi
+974 ft
-974 ft
3h 15
Easy
Departure from Chatonnay (Jura) (Jura)
This easy walk is best undertaken in spring or autumn if you wish to enjoy the second section, which is by far the most beautiful: waterfall and stream.Coolness guaranteed in summer, even with just a trickle of water.An Amazonian forest atmosphere before the waterfall.
The Crêt de Chalam
2.78 mi
+942 ft
-948 ft
2h 05
Average
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 Couloirs circuit starting from Les Bouchoux
4.75 mi
+1,486 ft
-1,506 ft
3h 30
Average
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.
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
7.03 mi
+948 ft
-938 ft
4h 05
Average
Departure from Port-Lesney (Jura)
From the remains of the Old Bridge of Port-Lesney, you will climb up beautiful forest paths winding through box trees to the viewpoint overlooking the village topped by Mont Poupet. From this cool, mossy forest, you will emerge into the sunny vineyards, greeting the Saline d'Arc-et-Senans from afar, before returning, devoutly, to the Hermitage of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette perched on the cliff above the valley.
The Pic d'Oliferne
4.32 mi
+853 ft
-850 ft
2h 45
Average
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.
In the vineyards of Château-Chalon
7.31 mi
+922 ft
-909 ft
4h 10
Average
Departure from Voiteur (Jura)
Perched on the cliffs of Revermont, Château-Chalon, dear to the heart of writer Bernard Clavel, watches over the Jura vineyards. This village offers magnificent views of the vineyards and nearby valleys, and you will enjoy strolling among the old houses. Return via a Roman road and the Tuquière viewpoint with its cabordes (stone shelters).
Mont Sala
6.25 mi
+1,677 ft
-1,657 ft
7 hrs
Average
Departure from Les Rousses (Jura)
Mont Sala offers remarkable views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, particularly its highest peak.Important note mentioned by a hiker: this route is located in an area regulated by the Federal District of Le Noirmont; in winter, only marked trails are authorised in order to preserve wildlife, so access to Crêt des Danses and summit 1515 is prohibited.
Tour du Flumen via La Roche Blanche and Sur les Grès
8.51 mi
+3,789 ft
-3,760 ft
7h 15
Difficult
Departure from Villard-Saint-Sauveur (Jura)
This loop will allow you to discover the bottom of the Flumen valley (and its waterfalls) as well as the ridges above it.
The 7 waterfalls of Le Hérisson
Tourist office
4.36 mi
+965 ft
-978 ft
2h 50
Average
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
An iconic site in the Jura: the Hérisson waterfalls.
This route allows you to discover all of the Hérisson waterfalls, starting from the top of the falls.
Allow 3 hours for the round trip along the 7 Hérisson waterfalls.
If you prefer to admire the two largest waterfalls, "L'Éventail" and "Le Grand Saut", without hiking for three hours, we suggest parking at the Maison des Cascades in Ménétrux-en-Joux, from where you can quickly and easily reach the foot of L'Éventail.
The Hérisson waterfalls can be very busy in summer, so spring and autumn are better times to visit.
The Rocher des Commères and the Perte de l'Ain
4.65 mi
+1,050 ft
-1,079 ft
3h 05
Average
Departure from Bourg-de-Sirod (Jura)
A lord had three daughters of marriageable age. Capricious, they found all suitors unworthy. Annoyed, the fairy Melusine turned them into stone statues. Erosion has destroyed two of these gossips. Time will get the better of the last one, so don't delay in paying her a visit. On the way, you will see the ruins of a castle perched on the cliffs, views of the Val de Sirod, and picturesque stony paths winding through beautiful rocks. Return via the Perte de l'Ain and its superb gorges.
Tour of the four lakes via various viewpoints and the Pic de l'Aigle
9.53 mi
+1,499 ft
-1,476 ft
5h 40
Difficult
Departure from Le Frasnois (Jura)
From the car park in the hamlet of La Fromagerie, which also provides access to the Cascades du Hérisson from above, cross Le Frasnois and follow the banks of Lac de Narlay before climbing up to discover several magnificent viewpoints overlooking the emerald-coloured lakes (Ilay, Narlay, Grand and Petit Maclu), some of which are unnamed and wild, and those of the Quatre Lacs, Trois Lacs and Pic de l'Aigle, then return to the starting point along the Lac d'Ilay.
Walk in the Jura woods
4.69 mi
+794 ft
-794 ft
2h 50
Easy
Departure from Meussia (Jura)
An easy hike for the whole family, where the vegetation changes from deciduous trees to pines, firs, Scots pines and boxwood. You can also walk along a stream, enter a cave and enjoy three waterfalls.
The balconies of Lake Chalain
7.87 mi
+666 ft
-666 ft
4h 10
Average
Departure from Marigny (Jura) (Jura)
This balcony trail offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the largest natural lake in the Jura.
Surrounded by mountains, forests and rivers, the lake is an invitation to linger and discover the secrets of the woods...
La Châtelaine and Cirque du Fer à Cheval
7.51 mi
+1,434 ft
-1,427 ft
4h 40
Average
Departure from Les Planches-près-Arbois (Jura)
La Reculée des Planches, shaped by limestone erosion, has a relief characteristic of the Jura karst plateau. From the foot of the cliffs, climbing gently through the beautiful Arbois Forest towards the Belvédère du Fer à Cheval, you will climb up to the cornices where no fewer than four viewpoints, not to mention the ruins of a feudal castle, offer superb views of the entire reculée.
From Arbois to Pupillin through the vineyards and back via the Ermitage chapel
5.86 mi
+1,001 ft
-994 ft
3h 35
Average
Departure from Arbois (Jura)
This is a pleasant walk through the rolling vineyards and the charming wine-growing village of Pupillin. The return route through the forest and the Ermitage viewpoint offers magnificent views of the town of Arbois. A few short climbs add a little spice to the route.
The Reculées de Baume-les-Messieurs
16.14 mi
+2,526 ft
-2,523 ft
9h 35
Difficult
Departure from Nevy-sur-Seille (Jura)
This route will give you an overview of these great glacial valleys of the Jura.
Family walk around Lajoux in the Jura
7.95 mi
+1,060 ft
-1,037 ft
4h 35
Average
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.
The Reculée des Planches
10.56 mi
+1,545 ft
-1,512 ft
6h 10
Easy
Departure from Arbois (Jura)
A lovely circular walk starting from Arbois. The suggested route forms part of the “Échappée Jurassienne” trail. At the end of the walk, you’ll find yourself close to the vineyards. There’s another, shorter route via the bottom of the Reculée. This is an old route which does not necessarily follow the on-site signposting. See reviews
Poligny, the Roche du Pénitent and the Croix du Dan
7.12 mi
+1,903 ft
-1,893 ft
4h 55
Average
Departure from Poligny (Jura) (Jura)
You will begin your walk at Notre-Dame de Mouthier-le-Vieillard and its rival, the Collégiale Saint-Hippolyte, discovering the beautiful old houses of this provincial town. Then, climbing to the foot of the ancient ramparts, still devout, you will reach the Roche du Pénitent, following the line of ledges and its views over the valley to discover the Croix du Dan and its view over the Bresse plain where, it is said, less Catholic druids shed human blood.
The path to Maisod Castle
3.87 mi
+400 ft
-397 ft
2h 10
Easy
Departure from Maisod (Jura)
Under the pine trees, immerse yourself in a Mediterranean atmosphere and marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Vouglans stretching as far as the eye can see. Let the grains of sand covering the beaches caress your skin. The only thing missing from this picture is the taste of salt on your lips to make you believe in this unlikely little sea in the mountains.
This easy walk from the port of La Mercantine will take you to Maisod Castle and along Lake Vouglans
The cairn trail starting from La Chaux-du-Dombief
2.44 mi
+246 ft
-223 ft
1h 20
Easy
Departure from La Chaux-du-Dombief (Jura)
This magnificent route, ideal for families, overlooks Lake Ilay with a panoramic view of the entire Jura mountain range and the Alps in the background.
Marked with cairns, the route offers a fun walk full of discoveries.
Bonlieu Lake
2.20 mi
+46 ft
-46 ft
1h 05
Easy
Departure from Bonlieu (Jura)
A short hike between forest and lake, very peaceful and relaxing in this popular lake region.
From the Regardoir viewpoint to the Roche aux Corneilles viewpoint
7.22 mi
+909 ft
-922 ft
4h 05
Average
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.
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 Cimante waterfalls
7.71 mi
+978 ft
-974 ft
4h 25
Average
Departure from Coyron (Jura)
This beautiful, mostly shaded route offers views of several waterfalls, each as pretty as the next, as well as a cave open on the side of a cliff with a spring flowing from it. The vegetation is very diverse and you can see the tireless work of water on the rock.
Roche Blanche on the circuit
7.67 mi
+1,106 ft
-1,109 ft
4h 30
Average
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.
The Lavoir de Tuile circuit
5.62 mi
+909 ft
-883 ft
3h 25
Average
Departure from Macornay (Jura)
A pleasant hike in the hills above Lons-le-Saunier. You will pass a completely isolated wash house, climb up to the Belvédère de Montaigu, descend into the middle of the Val de Sorne golf course, and walk along paths accompanied by birdsong and the sound of flowing water. This is a well-marked and well-maintained circuit with two significant climbs.
Cuchet viewpoint
9.87 mi
+1,877 ft
-1,883 ft
6h 10
Average
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...
The Great Chimney
5.39 mi
+1,306 ft
-1,280 ft
3h 35
Average
Departure from Syam (Jura)
Forest walk in the hills above Syam to discover the Grande Cheminée, an open-air cave that was visited in the Bronze Age. An axe made of this metal was found there. According to some, you may be walking on the lost site of Alesia as you make your way to two viewpoints over the wild Saine valley.
The Upper Vallière Valley
8.65 mi
+1,463 ft
-1,434 ft
5h 15
Average
Departure from Conliège (Jura)
This is a little-known hike offering magnificent views, all less than 10 km from Lons-le-Saunier
Heritage and panoramic views between Pagnoz and Marnoz
5.35 mi
+725 ft
-725 ft
3h 05
Easy
Departure from Pagnoz (Jura)
A 30-minute climb will take you to the feudal castle of Vaulgrenant, where you can enjoy a 360° panorama. Then you will walk between valleys and woods, with ever-changing views of Mont Poupet. After Marnoz, you will discover a very pleasant path leading back to Pagnoz. It allows you to walk along the railway line without realising it (except at the beginning). A hike away from the beaten track and through varied landscapes.
Bienne discovery trail
2.00 mi
+256 ft
-240 ft
1h 10
Easy
Departure from Morez (Jura)
This route, starting from Morez, will take you around the banks of the Bienne and its Trou Bleu, as well as the Saillard Viaduct, crossing two Himalayan-style footbridges. Information boards are placed at various points along the route.
More walks in Jura
Select an area below:
- Aiglepierre
- Amange
- Arbois
- Arinthod
- Balanod
- Baume-les-Messieurs
- Bellecombe
- Bellefontaine
- Blois-sur-Seille
- Bois-d'Amont
- Bonlieu
- Bourg-de-Sirod
- Buvilly
- Chancia
- Chassal
- Châtillon (Jura)
- Chatonnay (Jura)
- Chaux-des-Crotenay
- Choux
- Coisia
- Commenailles
- Condes
- Conliège
- Conte
- Courtefontaine (Jura)
- Coyron
- Crenans
- Dole
- Doucier
- Dournon
- Étival
- Foncine-le-Bas
- Foncine-le-Haut
- Fort-du-Plasne
- Geraise
- Gevingey
- Gizia
- Grande-Rivière
- Hautecour
- Jeurre
- Jouhe
- La Chapelle-sur-Furieuse
- La Chaux-du-Dombief
- La Pesse
- La Tour-du-Meix
- La Vieille-Loye
- Lac-des-Rouges-Truites
- Lajoux
- Lamoura
- Lavancia-Epercy
- Lavans-lès-Saint-Claude
- Le Fied
- Le Frasnois
- Le Vaudioux
- Lect
- Les Arsures
- Les Bouchoux
- Les Crozets
- Les Moussières
- Les Nans
- Les Planches-en-Montagne
- Les Planches-près-Arbois
- Les Rousses
- Longchaumois
- Lons-le-Saunier
- Macornay
- Maisod
- Marigny (Jura)
- Martigna
- Maynal
- Menétrux-en-Joux
- Meussia
- Miéry
- Mignovillard
- Moirans-en-Montagne
- Moissey
- Montagna-le-Templier
- Montigny-lès-Arsures
- Montmirey-le-Château
- Morbier
- Morez
- Mouchard
- Nanc-lès-Saint-Amour
- Nevy-sur-Seille
- Nogna
- Offlanges
- Onoz
- Orgelet
- Ougney
- Pagnoz
- Passenans
- Perrigny
- Petit-Noir
- Plasne
- Pointre
- Poligny (Jura)
- Pont-d'Héry
- Port-Lesney
- Pratz
- Prémanon
- Prénovel
- Pretin
- Pupillin
- Ravilloles
- Saint-Amour
- Saint-Claude
- Saint-Hymetière
- Saint-Laurent-en-Grandvaux
- Saint-Laurent-la-Roche
- Salins-les-Bains
- Septmoncel
- Soucia
- Supt
- Syam
- Thoirette
- Varessia
- Vaux-lès-Saint-Claude
- Vescles
- Villard-Saint-Sauveur
- Villards-d'Héria
- Villevieux
- Voiteur