The best walks and hikes around Cognin-Les-Gorges
4.6
(733)
4,869
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around Cognin-Les-Gorges offers diverse trails within the Isère department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The landscape is characterized by the deep Gorges du Nan, where the Nan torrent has carved into Vercors' limestone cliffs. Dense forests and numerous waterfalls, including the Gerlette Waterfall, are prominent features of the area. This region is also part of the Vercors Regional Natural Park, providing a broader context of protected natural beauty for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Cognin-Les-Gorges
- The most popular hiking route is Gorges du Nan Trail, a 7.9 miles (12.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 39 minutes to complete, offering views of the impressive limestone cliffs and the Nan torrent.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gorges du Nan – Beautiful forest loop from Cognin-les-Gorges, a moderate 7.8 miles (12.5 km) path. This route winds through dense woodlands and provides refreshing experiences along the Gorges du Nan.
- Local hikers also love the Beautiful forest – Gorges du Nan loop from Cognin-les-Gorges, an 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail leading through the Vercors massif and its forests, often completed in about 5 hours 6 minutes.
- Hiking around Cognin-Les-Gorges is defined by deep gorges, limestone cliffs, and dense woodlands within the Vercors Regional Natural Park. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Cognin-Les-Gorges are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore Cognin-Les-Gorges's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.9
(14)
79
hikers
12.7km
04:39
800m
800m
Hike the moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) Gorge of Nan and Gerlette Waterfall trail in Vercors Regional Natural Park, gaining 2618 feet.
4.4
(19)
101
hikers
12.5km
04:32
770m
770m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(14)
88
hikers
13.6km
05:04
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(18)
104
hikers
13.7km
05:01
860m
860m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
17
hikers
2.54km
01:03
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Cognin-Les-Gorges
Tips from the Community
The Gorges du Nan are among the most beautiful gorges in the Vercors. The forest, the Nan River and the many waterfalls that line the route make these gorges a real pleasure to explore.
4
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go down a small lane to the river to find a magical place
0
0
To the waterfall leads only a very narrow, steeply rising singletrack as a dead end. In several places the stream bed must be crossed on inlaid stones. The detour was worth it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Cognin-Les-Gorges?
Cognin-Les-Gorges offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 40 marked trails suitable for different skill and fitness levels. Our guide features 10 of the best routes in the area.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in Cognin-Les-Gorges?
Yes, the region provides trails for various ability levels. For an easier option, consider the Gorges du Nan – Waterfall in the Nan Gorge loop from Cognin-les-Gorges, which is an easy 2.5 km (1.6 miles) loop that takes about 1 hour to complete, perfect for a shorter outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Cognin-Les-Gorges?
Pets on a leash are generally welcome on the hiking trails in Cognin-Les-Gorges, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the Gorges du Nan with your canine companion.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Many of the trails in Cognin-Les-Gorges are designed as loops. For example, the Gorges du Nan – Beautiful forest loop from Cognin-les-Gorges is a moderate 12.5 km (7.8 miles) path that winds through dense woodlands and offers refreshing experiences along the Gorges du Nan.
What natural attractions can I see while hiking in the area?
The primary natural attraction is the Gorges du Nan, a classified Sensitive Natural Area. Hikers can discover the spectacular Gerlette Waterfall, particularly impressive in spring, along with numerous basins and interesting limestone formations known as tufières. The region is also part of the Vercors Regional Natural Park.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Cognin-Les-Gorges?
The routes in Cognin-Les-Gorges are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the impressive limestone cliffs, the refreshing experience along the Nan torrent, and the well-maintained paths through dense forests.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more demanding experience, the Beautiful forest – Gorges du Nan loop from Cognin-les-Gorges is a difficult 13.7 km (8.5 miles) trail leading through the Vercors massif and its forests, often completed in about 5 hours.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Cognin-Les-Gorges?
The Gorges du Nan offer a refreshing experience, particularly in spring when the Gerlette Waterfall is most spectacular. The dense forests also provide shade during warmer months, making spring through autumn ideal for hiking. Winter hikes are possible, but conditions may vary.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Beyond the Gorges du Nan, you can explore the nearby Choranche, known for its waterfall and the Gournier cave with an underground lake. The Col de Romeyère, an iconic mountain pass, also offers varied terrain for hikers.
Where can I find parking for the hiking trails in Cognin-Les-Gorges?
While specific parking locations are not detailed in our guide, Cognin-Les-Gorges is well-equipped for outdoor enthusiasts. Parking is generally available near the village center or at designated trailheads for popular routes like the Gorges du Nan loop.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on the hikes?
The landscape is defined by the deep Gorges du Nan, where the Nan torrent has carved into Vercors' limestone cliffs. You'll encounter dense forests, numerous waterfalls, and geological marvels, all within the protected natural beauty of the Vercors Regional Natural Park.
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