4.4
(1451)
10,883
hikers
45
hikes
Hiking around La Chaux-Du-Dombief offers diverse natural landscapes in the Jura department. The region is characterized by its series of waterfalls, notably the Hérisson Waterfalls, and several glacial lakes. Elevated viewpoints provide panoramas over the surrounding plateaus and valleys, with some hills reaching nearly 1,000 meters. The terrain includes forested paths, lakeside trails, and ascents to scenic overlooks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.5
(169)
1,425
hikers
5.37km
01:36
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(371)
3,964
hikers
7.57km
02:28
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.7
(46)
242
hikers
11.5km
03:33
300m
300m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(57)
281
hikers
14.6km
04:17
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(3)
47
hikers
6.18km
01:58
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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🌿 Lake Narlay: Essential Information Location: Frasnois municipality, in the Lakes Region (Jura). Altitude: 748 m. Surface area: 41 ha. Depth: Up to 40 m, making it the deepest lake in the Jura. Origin: Glacial lake, likely formed by a rockfall. Environment: Meadows, forests, peat bogs, Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites. (Copilot)
0
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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!
0
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The smaller of the two Maclu Lakes, with an easy hiking trail along its shore.
5
0
A gravel, easy-to-walk hiking trail runs along the lakeshore, offering repeated, beautiful views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
0
Beautiful view through a clearing onto Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
0
Small, privately owned botanical garden that can be visited by appointment.
5
0
Nice little town with a cheese factory and a few restaurants.
5
0
La Chaux-du-Dombief offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 55 distinct trails. These routes cater to various preferences, including 16 easy, 20 moderate, and 19 difficult options.
The terrain in La Chaux-du-Dombief is quite diverse, featuring forested paths, serene lakeside trails, and ascents to scenic overlooks. You'll encounter a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging climbs, especially on routes leading to viewpoints or along the waterfalls.
Yes, La Chaux-du-Dombief offers several accessible routes suitable for families. While some trails require good fitness, others are designed for easier access, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty. For instance, parts of the Hérisson Waterfalls are accessible without extensive hiking.
Many trails in the La Chaux-du-Dombief region are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural landscapes with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas or near wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations beforehand.
Yes, the area is rich in circular hiking routes. A popular option is the Pic de l'Aigle – Three Lakes Viewpoint loop, offering stunning vistas. Another excellent choice is the Petit Maclu Lake – Grand Maclu Lake loop for a tranquil lakeside experience.
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Pic de l'Aigle. From its summit, you can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree vista over the Jura plateaus, the Hérisson Valley, and the four glacial lakes below. On clear days, you might even spot Mont Blanc.
The Hérisson Waterfalls are a highlight of the region. You can explore them on routes like the Cascades du Hérisson – Le Grand Saut loop, which takes you past impressive cascades such as Le Grand Saut and Fan Waterfall. Another option is the more challenging Le Grand Saut – Fan Waterfall loop.
Absolutely. The region is known for its beautiful glacial lakes. You can enjoy a moderate hike around the tranquil waters of Lac du Petit Maclu and Lac du Grand Maclu with the Petit Maclu Lake – Grand Maclu Lake loop. Lac d'Ilay is also a prominent feature in many routes, offering serene waterside paths.
Beyond the Hérisson Waterfalls and the glacial lakes, you can discover other natural wonders. Don't miss the dramatic Langouette Gorges, offering a different kind of natural spectacle with their deep ravines and rushing waters.
The hiking trails in La Chaux-du-Dombief are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,700 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic waterfalls, serene glacial lakes, and the panoramic viewpoints that define the region's routes.
Yes, parking facilities are generally available near the main trailheads for popular routes, especially around the Hérisson Waterfalls and viewpoints like Pic de l'Aigle. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
The best time for hiking in La Chaux-du-Dombief is typically from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and full waterfalls, while summer provides warmer weather for lake activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Some trails may be accessible in winter, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Yes, if you're looking for easier walks, there are 16 easy routes available. These often include gentle strolls around the lakes or less demanding sections of the waterfall trails, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant effort.


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