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France
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Territoire-de-Belfort

Fontenelle

The best walks and hikes around Fontenelle

4.5

(402)

2,992

hikers

187

hikes

Hiking around Fontenelle offers a variety of trails, primarily featuring flat to gently rolling terrain. The region is characterized by its numerous ponds and small bodies of water, often surrounded by agricultural landscapes and woodlands. Hikers can expect paths that traverse open countryside and forested sections, providing a mix of scenery.

Best hiking trails around Fontenelle

  • The most popular hiking route is Étang La Belle Île – Etang de la Belle Île loop from Chavannes-sur-l'Étang, a 3.2 miles (5.2…

Last updated: July 5, 2026

4.1

(14)

47

hikers

#1.

Étang La Belle Île – Marinere floor loop from Chavannes-sur-l'Étang

5.20km

01:20

20m

20m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

5.0

(2)

16

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Traveler
December 20, 2024, Le Chêne d'Autrage "Le Sans Pareil"

Iconic oak tree, creatively decorated like a hobbit treehouse with painted wooden boards. The rest area has picnic tables and sunny and shady spots.

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I haven't been here for at least 45 years. At the time there was a tavern. We could have a drink there. go pedal boating. On Sunday there were people on the terrace and children laughing. Today, even if the site remains beautiful, there is not much left of this happy place. If any members have any information, I'm interested.

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Named after General Sénarmont, Fort Bessoncourt was built between 1883 and 1886 to close the roads to Colmar and Basel and the railway to Mulhouse, and to support the forts of Roppe and Vézelois. It is a large pentagonal limestone structure, built for approximately 650 men and 30 artillery pieces. It is typical of forts dating from the 1880s, in which the long-range artillery and close defense were grouped on the rampart bordering the ditch, while the infantry was positioned above the caponiers of the escarpment and on the roof of the central barracks. Opening hours: Visit at 3 p.m. on Sundays from May to September

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La Belle Île pond is actually a series of ponds with wooden walkways that allow you to reach the islets. There are several marked walks to do in the area.

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France presenting Victory" Sculpture by Louis Maubert (1875-1949), born in Paris.

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Named after General Senarmont, Fort Bessoncourt was erected between 1883 and 1886 to block the roads to Colmar and Basel and the Mulhouse railway line, and to cover the forts of Roppe and Vézelois. It is a large limestone masonry fort, pentagonal in plan, designed for about 650 men and about 30 artillery pieces. It is representative of the forts of the 1880s, in which the artillery for distant action and that for close defense were assembled on the rampart bordering the ditch, while the infantry took up position above the caponiers and on the roof of the central barracks. But shortly after its construction, it is already outdated and needs modernization. It is one of the few forts in the square to have constantly kept pace with technical progress: in 1888, a concrete shell was poured over a third of its central barracks: in 1894-1895, most of its artillery being dispersed in surrounding batteries, it became an infantry support point and underwent a complete overhaul. In 1908-1909, two turrets for 75 guns and two machine gun turrets were installed. During the First World War, the fort served as a hospital, but from 1917, fortification work resumed with the digging of deeply buried rooms and galleries connecting the fort with the outside.

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History: The history of Novillard begins before 1251 but it is only on this date that we find the name of the village mentioned in an act concerning the priory of Froidefontaine in the form of Nueviller. The stronghold was part of the seigniory of Rougemont-le-Château in 1125, when Frederick I of Ferrette endowed the monastery of Valdieu, currently in the department of Haut-Rhin. A church then existed in Novillard, whose parish also included Eschêne, Autrage and Rechotte, all three currently grouped together in the commune of Autrechêne. Novillard was also the chief town of a town hall depending on the seigniory of Rougemont (of which it marked the southern limit) then the provostship of Angeot, seigniory of Belfort. The fate of the village generally follows that of the surrounding villages: attachment to the domains of the House of Austria from 1350 to 1648. The Saint-Julien church was built in the 1770s. In 1803 the population was 171 inhabitants, and 210 in the 1999 census. The activity of the commune is essentially agricultural.

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The village is located southeast of Belfort, 11km from the latter. Its territory, which covers 116 hectares, is bordered to the north by the Belfort-Mulhouse railway line. It is crossed by the small river La Madeleine which has its source in the Vosges massif, in the village of La Madeleine precisely. The average altitude is 350m. History: The history of Novillard begins before 1251 but it is only on this date that we find the name of the village mentioned in an act concerning the priory of Froidefontaine in the form of Nueviller. The stronghold was part of the seigniory of Rougemont-le-Château in 1125, when Frederick I of Ferrette endowed the monastery of Valdieu, currently in the department of Haut-Rhin. A church then existed in Novillard, whose parish also included Eschêne, Autrage and Rechotte, all three currently grouped together in the commune of Autrechêne. Novillard was also the chief town of a town hall depending on the seigniory of Rougemont (of which it marked the southern limit) then the provostship of Angeot, seigniory of Belfort. The fate of the village generally follows that of the surrounding villages: attachment to the domains of the House of Austria from 1350 to 1648. The Saint-Julien church was built in the 1770s. In 1803 the population was 171 inhabitants, and 210 in the 1999 census. The activity of the commune is essentially agricultural.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Fontenelle Forest?

Fontenelle Forest offers a diverse range of ecosystems, including hardwood deciduous forests, prairies, and wetlands. You'll find varied terrain, from gentle strolls to steeper trails, and scenic views of the Missouri River, especially from the mile-long, ADA-accessible boardwalk.

Are there any accessible trails for all abilities in Fontenelle Forest?

Yes, Fontenelle Forest features a mile-long boardwalk that is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, providing an easy way to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenic views. This makes it a great option for visitors of all mobility levels.

What kind of wildlife can I spot in Fontenelle Forest?

The forest is rich in biodiversity, home to over 600 species of animals and plants. Hikers often spot deer, wild turkeys, pelicans, bullfrogs, turtles, and opossums. It's also a significant birding site, with over 250 species, including red-shouldered hawks and pileated woodpeckers.

Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the area?

For those seeking a longer challenge, the 10-mile Fontenelle Forest Outer Loop is a moderately challenging trail ideal for running and hiking. It features a mix of meadows, rivers, and hills, offering a comprehensive experience of the forest's varied terrain.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Fontenelle Forest?

The trails in Fontenelle Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 355 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse ecosystems, the well-maintained paths, and the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can I find any loop trails suitable for a moderate hike?

Absolutely. A popular moderate loop is the Bridge over the Autruche – Stone Water Source loop from Bessoncourt, which covers about 12.3 km (7.7 miles) and features varied terrain with some elevation gain. Another great option is the Cows in the Countryside – Other oak loop from Autrechêne, a 9.0 km (5.6 miles) trail through open countryside and oak woodlands.

Are there any historical or notable landmarks within or near Fontenelle Forest?

Fontenelle Forest itself is recognized as a Natural National Landmark and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. It's also significant as a location along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Nearby, you can explore historical sites like the Citadel of Belfort or the Lion of Belfort.

Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in Fontenelle Forest?

Yes, Fontenelle Forest is very family-friendly. The Nature Center features a gallery with exhibits, a nature-based children's play area called Acorn Acres, and a gift shop. For more adventure, TreeRush Adventures offers an aerial adventure park with ziplines and suspended obstacles within the forest canopy.

What are some easy hiking options for beginners or a casual stroll?

For an easy and pleasant walk, consider the Étang La Belle Île – Etang de la Belle Île loop from Chavannes-sur-l'Étang, an easy 5.2 km (3.2 miles) trail offering lovely views of the Étang de la Belle Île. The Gifford Memorial Boardwalk is also excellent for a gentle walk, birding, and enjoying giant cottonwood trees.

How many hiking routes are available in the Fontenelle area?

The Fontenelle area offers a wide selection of hiking routes, with over 160 tours available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging paths, ensuring options for various fitness levels and preferences.

Are there any specific trails that offer good birdwatching opportunities?

Fontenelle Forest is a premier birding destination. The Gifford Memorial Boardwalk and trails along the Missouri River offer excellent opportunities to spot over 250 species of birds, including rare sightings like red-shouldered hawks and pileated woodpeckers. The diverse ecosystems attract a wide variety of avian life.

Can I find trails that pass by water features like ponds or rivers?

Many trails in the Fontenelle area feature water elements. The region is characterized by numerous ponds and small bodies of water. For example, the Pont Arromanches – Cratsch Pond loop from Petit-Croix is a moderate 10.4 km (6.5 miles) route that will take you past the Cratsch Pond, offering scenic views of the water.

Most popular routes around Fontenelle

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