The best running trails around Saint-Maurice-Crillat

There are over 270 running routes in the Saint-Maurice-Crillat area, offering a wide variety of terrain and difficulty levels. This includes 21 easy routes, 188 moderate routes, and 69 difficult routes, ensuring options for every runner.

Yes, Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers several easy running routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Lac de Bonlieu — loop — running from Bonlieu, an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) trail that takes approximately 28 minutes to complete, offering picturesque views around the lake.

The region is characterized by diverse natural landscapes, including numerous picturesque lakes such as Lac de Bonlieu, Lac du Val, and Lac de l'Abbaye. You'll also encounter impressive waterfalls like the Hérisson Waterfalls, and dense forests within the larger Jura Mountains, providing varied terrain from lakeside paths to challenging forest trails.

Absolutely! The Saint-Maurice-Crillat area is famous for its waterfalls. You can experience the impressive Hérisson Waterfalls on routes like the Cascades du Hérisson – Saut de la Forge loop from Bonlieu. This challenging 8.5-mile (13.7 km) trail leads directly through the cascades, including the 60-meter Grand Saut. You can also visit highlights like the Fan Waterfall or Saut Girard Waterfall.

Yes, many of the running paths in Saint-Maurice-Crillat are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For a moderate challenge, consider the Running loop from Hautecour, which is 7.1 miles (11.5 km) long and leads through varied terrain.

Yes, the region offers routes with stunning viewpoints. The Pic de l'Aigle – Three Lakes Viewpoint loop from Bonlieu is a difficult 13.8-mile (22.3 km) route that takes you to the Pic de l'Aigle and the Three Lakes Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and landscapes.

The running routes in Saint-Maurice-Crillat are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 150 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse natural landscapes, from picturesque lakes to impressive waterfalls and dense forests, which provide varied terrain for all levels. The unspoiled nature and well-maintained trails contribute to a positive outdoor experience.

For families, easier and shorter routes around the lakes are generally recommended. The Lac de Bonlieu — loop — running from Bonlieu is an excellent choice, being relatively flat and offering beautiful scenery that can be enjoyed by all ages. Always check the route's difficulty and length to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the most popular seasons for running. During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. In winter, some higher elevation trails or those on the Col de la Joux may transform into cross-country ski trails, requiring appropriate gear or alternative routes.

While popular spots like Lac de Bonlieu and the Hérisson Waterfalls can attract visitors, the vast network of over 270 routes in the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park means you can often find quieter trails. Exploring some of the moderate or difficult forest paths, or routes around less-known lakes like Lac du Val or Lac de l'Abbaye, might offer a more serene running experience.

Beyond the routes themselves, the area boasts several natural attractions. You can explore the stunning The Hérisson Waterfalls, or visit beautiful lakes such as Petit Maclu Lake and Lake Ilay. For panoramic views, the Pic de l'Aigle is a must-see.