4.5
(5183)
37,969
hikers
306
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers diverse natural landscapes within the Jura department of eastern France. The region is characterized by numerous picturesque lakes, including Lac de Bonlieu and Lac de Chalain, and impressive waterfalls such as the Hérisson Waterfalls. Part of the larger Jura Mountains, the area features unspoiled nature, verdant valleys, and rich forests, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 9, 2026
4.8
(26)
121
hikers
7.58km
02:04
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(175)
1,352
hikers
17.0km
05:24
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

4.7
(12)
72
hikers
6.39km
02:06
180m
180m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.4
(13)
38
hikers
14.1km
04:16
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(12)
58
hikers
7.26km
02:18
270m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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The hole in question is the Gangones hole, from which water escapes under pressure when the resurgence (La Frasnée waterfall) is saturated. It's spectacular!
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Path to the invisible cave from the main trail. The trail marked on this IGN map does not exist (or no longer does). July 2026. Otherwise the hike is magnificent and very little frequented.
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A superb hike with beautiful views of the seven waterfalls. It's quite crowded, so for a quieter return, you can take the GR 559 forest path back, which doesn't follow the water but is also magnificent in autumn!
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A short, fun 7km outing without any major difficulty, before a delicious plate of frogs or trout at the waterfall restaurant. Book now!
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Small viewing platform with a view of the Le Grand Saut waterfall.
2
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Waterfall at the ruins of a former mill.
7
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Larger waterfall Cascade Saut De La Forge with grotto and views directly onto the waterfall, as well as from above onto the water cascading down over smaller cascades.
7
0
There are over 280 hiking routes in the Saint-Maurice-Crillat area. These trails cater to various skill levels, with more than 100 easy routes, 120 moderate routes, and nearly 60 difficult options for experienced hikers.
Yes, the region offers many easy trails suitable for families. A great option is the Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu, which is an easy 4 km path around the picturesque Lac de Bonlieu, taking just over an hour to complete. Another short and easy option is the Lake Bonlieu, France loop from Lac de Bonlieu, at 3.3 km.
Many of the trails around Saint-Maurice-Crillat are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular Lac de Bonlieu — loop from Bonlieu is a moderate 7.6 km circular route, perfect for experiencing the lake's beauty. Another excellent circular option is the Fan Waterfall – Le Grand Saut loop from Denezières, which explores the Hérisson Waterfalls.
Absolutely, the Hérisson Waterfalls are a major highlight of the region. You can explore them on the moderate Fan Waterfall – Le Grand Saut loop from Denezières, which takes you past impressive cascades like the 60-meter Grand Saut and the distinctive Fan Waterfall. Another option is the Frasnée Waterfall – Cave off the beaten path loop from La Frasnée.
The region is known for its stunning panoramic viewpoints. The Pic de l'Aigle and Belvédère des Quatre Lacs offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding lakes and the Jura Mountains. Many routes incorporate these viewpoints, providing rewarding scenery after your trek.
The hiking trails in Saint-Maurice-Crillat are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 4,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the beauty of the lakes and waterfalls, and the variety of routes available for all fitness levels.
The 'Pays des Lacs' region is dotted with numerous beautiful lakes. Lac de Bonlieu is particularly popular, with several routes like the Lac de Bonlieu — loop from Bonlieu offering scenic lakeside walks. Other notable lakes include Lac d'Ilay and Lac de Chalain, all providing picturesque backdrops for your hikes.
The best time for hiking in Saint-Maurice-Crillat is generally from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are vibrant. During these seasons, you can fully enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and forests. While some trails are accessible in winter, the region transforms into a cross-country ski area, so conditions will vary.
Yes, Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers over 100 easy routes. For a gentle introduction, consider the Lake Bonlieu, France – Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu, which is a flat and accessible 4 km path. These easier trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the natural beauty without significant elevation changes.
Many trails in the Saint-Maurice-Crillat region are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or near wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
Hiking in Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers incredibly diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter the serene beauty of numerous lakes, the dramatic cascades of the Hérisson Waterfalls, and the unspoiled nature of the Jura Mountains, characterized by verdant valleys, rich forests, and impressive rock formations.


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