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MTB trails
France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Nantua

Charix

The best MTB trails around Charix

4.3

(174)

1,128

riders

133

rides

Mountain biking around Charix offers diverse landscapes within the Ain department of France, featuring rugged and mountainous terrain as part of the Jura massif and Bugey area. The region is characterized by high limestone cliffs, dense forests, and open meadows, providing varied environments for mountain bike trails. A notable natural feature is Lac Genin, a picturesque lake at 830 meters altitude, surrounded by spruce and fir trees. These natural elements contribute to a dynamic and engaging mountain biking experience.

Best…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

5.0

(3)

40

riders

#1.

Plateau de Retord – Cuvéry Pass loop from Charix

84.6km

07:34

2,020m

2,020m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Hard

3.3

(3)

10

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

4.0

(3)

8

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Popular around Charix

Gems of the Ain — MTB routes amidst natural beauty

Road Cycling Routes around Charix

Running Trails around Charix

Cycling around Charix

Gravel biking around Charix

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Gems of the Ain — MTB routes amidst natural beauty

Mountain Biking Collection by

Ain Tourisme

Tips from the Community

Julien Harté
April 27, 2026, Sentier du bois sous les Essards

This passage through the woods is a beautiful shady alternative for connecting Lake Genin and Lake Sylans.

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Julien Harté
April 27, 2026, Giron

Nestled in pastures at an altitude of 1,000 meters, Giron is the highest (and sunniest!) village in the Ain. Welcoming, with breathtaking views, it is ideal for an overnight stop.

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Located in Saint-Germain-de-Joux, the Marmites de Géant (Giant's Cauldrons) were carved by the Semine river and its tributary the Combet. Gigantic cylindrical hollows, two to three meters deep, are connected by a few successive waterfalls.

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Arian Hoti
September 8, 2025, Lac Genin

Pretty little lake in the heart of the small Jura mountains

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Lucie
August 27, 2025, Lac de Nantua

Beautiful, simple, easy walk; lots of traffic noise on the "road" section, a bit of a shame, but the color of the water is magical

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A 10 km climb from the small roundabout in Châtillon, it's more like 14 km from the Nantua road or the center of Bellegarde. The gradient is fairly steady, ranging from 5.5% to 7.2%, with about ten small steep sections at +8.5%. Very quiet, with very few cars. The road is generally in good condition, but nothing more. There are some beautiful views along the way.

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The Col de Bérentin connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau, passing through the beautiful Jura forests. Its ascent is gradual and the road is little traveled.

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There is a monument there commemorating the local resistance fighters, who used this meadow to parachute in equipment for the British secret services during the Second World War.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Charix?

There are over 120 mountain bike trails around Charix, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 18 easy routes, 67 moderate routes, and 42 difficult routes.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Charix?

Yes, Charix offers several easy mountain bike trails, with 18 routes specifically categorized as easy. A great option for families or beginners is the "Parcours VTT 67 vert – Lac Genin et les hauts de Charix," an 8 km circuit that winds through woods and meadows around Lac Genin, taking about 40 minutes to complete.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Charix?

The terrain around Charix is diverse, reflecting its location within the Jura massif and Bugey area. You'll encounter rugged and mountainous sections, high limestone cliffs, dense forests, and open meadows. Trails can feature varied surfaces, including paths and trails through undergrowth, with some routes like the "Parcours VTT 68 bleu" even crossing a 'dinosaur circuit'.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Charix?

Yes, many mountain bike trails in Charix are designed as loops. For example, the Lake Genin – Lake Genin loop from Lac Genin is a popular 16.9 km moderate trail that circles the scenic Lac Genin area.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see the picturesque Lac Genin, often called "the Little Canada of Haut-Bugey," surrounded by spruce and fir trees. Other notable features include the Lac de Nantua, the Valserine Gorges, and various waterfalls mentioned in the region's research. Some routes also offer viewpoints like La Roche Fauconnière.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Charix?

While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the diverse landscapes of Charix, with its forests and lakes, suggest that spring, summer, and early autumn would offer pleasant conditions for mountain biking. During these seasons, the trails are typically clear, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Absolutely. Charix offers 42 difficult mountain bike routes for experienced riders. A challenging option is the "Parcours VTT 69 rouge – Du lac Genin aux bords de Sylans," a 26 km circuit with significant elevation changes (580 meters positive gain) and technical passages, including a short portage section near the Moulin de Charix.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Charix?

The mountain bike trails around Charix are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 120 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the serene beauty of Lac Genin, and the mix of technical sections and flowing paths through extensive forests.

Are there any mountain bike trails that pass by lakes?

Yes, several trails in Charix feature lakes. The Lac Genin loop from Échallon is a 21.5 km moderate route that takes you around the beautiful Lac Genin. Another route, Cascade du Palin – Lake Nantua loop from Le Chateau, includes views of Lake Nantua.

How long do mountain bike trails in Charix typically take to complete?

Trail durations vary significantly based on difficulty and length. Easy routes like the "Parcours VTT 67 vert" can take around 40 minutes for 8 km. Moderate trails, such as the Sur la Croix – Bois Rond loop from Échallon (36.1 km), might take over 3 hours, while difficult routes like the Cuvéry Pass – Plateau de Retord loop from Saint-Germain-de-Joux (64.5 km) can take over 5 hours.

Is parking available near the mountain bike trails in Charix?

While specific parking locations for all trails are not detailed, the "Parcours VTT 67 vert – Lac Genin et les hauts de Charix" circuit starts from the Auberge du Lac Genin, suggesting parking facilities are available in that area. It's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes for specific parking information.

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