The best MTB trails in Doubs

Doubs offers nearly 2,000 mountain bike trails, catering to a wide range of skill levels from easy to difficult. This extensive network allows riders to explore the diverse landscapes of the Jura Mountains, forests, and river valleys.

Yes, Doubs has over 340 easy mountain bike trails. You can find accessible, family-friendly options around Besançon, Montbéliard, the Pays Horloger, and the Dessoubre Valley. The greenway cycle path along the Doubs River also offers flat, enjoyable routes. A great example is the Lake Saint-Point – Saint-Point-Lac loop from Vaux-et-Chantegrue, which is an easy 19.1-mile trail.

The terrain in Doubs is highly varied, reflecting the region's diverse natural landscape. You can expect to encounter stony paths, ridges, and undergrowth, with trails featuring technical elements like rock gardens and berms. The routes traverse dense forests, green pastures, and mountainous areas within the Jura Mountains.

Absolutely. Doubs offers 479 difficult mountain bike trails for experienced riders seeking a challenge. These routes often include demanding climbs, fast descents, and technical sections. Areas like Métabief Bike Park are known for their downhill trails, and routes around Mont d'Or provide significant elevation changes, such as the Le Morond – Mont d'Or loop from Rochejean.

Many trails in Doubs offer breathtaking views. The Jura Mountains provide numerous scenic spots, including peaks like Mont d'Or and Le Morond. The XXL Jump, Bikepark Métabief – Le Morond loop from Coni'fer offers views around the Métabief area. Additionally, the Jura Mountains themselves are known for their picturesque landscapes.

Yes, many mountain bike trails in Doubs are designed as circular routes, making them convenient for day trips. Examples include the Fort de la Dame Blanche – Le Vieux Tilleul loop from Besançon-Viotte and the The Top – Ornans loop from Ornans, which allow you to start and finish at the same point.

Doubs is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter the spectacular Doubs River valley, including the impressive Saut du Doubs waterfall and the Gorges du Doubs. Lake Saint-Point is another prominent feature, offering beautiful mountain views. Other natural highlights include the Forêt de la Joux and various other lakes like Lake Remoray.

Beyond natural landscapes, Doubs offers several cultural and historical sites. The city of Besançon boasts a UNESCO World Heritage citadel. The imposing Chateau de Joux is a clifftop castle with a thousand-year history. You might also pass through picturesque villages like Lods or towns such as Ornans, known for their charm and scenic settings.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from challenging climbs to scenic descents, and the well-preserved natural landscapes that offer a true immersion in the outdoors.

Yes, several areas are particularly popular for mountain biking. The Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) offers extensive trails through the Jura mountains. Métabief is renowned for its dedicated bike park. Other hubs include Le Pays Horloger, Grand Pontarlier – Château de Joux, and Ornans and the Loue Valley, all providing a variety of routes.

The best time for mountain biking in Doubs is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and trails are dry. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations in the Jura Mountains.

Trail durations vary significantly based on distance, elevation, and difficulty. For instance, an easy route like the Lake Saint-Point – Saint-Point-Lac loop from Vaux-et-Chantegrue can take under 2 hours, while moderate trails such as the Le Vieux Tilleul – Fort de la Dame Blanche loop from Besançon-Mouillère might require over 4 hours to complete.