4.5
(37)
193
riders
38
rides
Gravel biking around Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers diverse terrain within the Jura department of eastern France. The region features an abundance of lakes, including Lac de Bonlieu and Lac de Chalain, alongside the impressive Hérisson Waterfalls. Riders can explore varied landscapes, from verdant valleys and rich forests to the mountainous terrain of the Jura Mountains and Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. The area provides a mix of forest tracks, winding roads, and dirt paths, suitable for gravel bikes.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
3.8
(4)
44
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(5)
31
riders
29.1km
02:04
440m
440m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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5.0
(2)
21
riders
22.6km
01:31
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(7)
14
riders
12.1km
00:39
120m
120m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
39.9km
02:42
710m
710m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Saut de la Saisse is a waterfall in France located in the Jura massif, at the point where the Ain river flows into the Vouglans reservoir at Pont-de-Poitte and Patornay, between Lons-le-Saunier and Clairvaux-les-Lacs. A "marmite du diable", "marmite de géant" or "marmite glaciaire" in Switzerland (or simply "marmite" or "chaudron") is a more or less cylindrical natural cavity carved into the rock by ancient, generally torrential watercourses, carrying pebbles or gravel, which promotes swirling erosion (a phenomenon called "marmitage").
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Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
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Boat mooring with wooden dock for fishing boats at Lac de Narlay.
6
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Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.
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Climbed it today (17-8-25); it's open, and there are signs along the road showing your progress. Traffic is quiet, and a beautiful green climb, especially further on.
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There are 39 gravel bike trails around Saint-Maurice-Crillat, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. These routes have been explored by over 200 gravel bikers using komoot.
The Jura Mountains around Saint-Maurice-Crillat offer diverse terrain perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter a mix of forest tracks, farm roads, greenways, and stony paths. The region's landscape includes picturesque lakes, verdant valleys, and rich forests, providing varied surfaces and elevations.
While many routes are moderate to difficult, the region does offer some less technical alternatives suitable for families. Look for routes described as 'easy' or those that stick to greenways and smoother forest tracks, especially around the lakes, for a more relaxed experience.
The best seasons for gravel biking in the Jura Mountains are generally spring and summer, when the weather is mild and the trails are in good condition. Autumn also offers vibrant foliage, making for scenic rides, though winter can be challenging due to snow.
Yes, many gravel routes around Saint-Maurice-Crillat are designed as loops. For example, the Shore of Lac de Narlay – Grand Maclu Lake loop from La Chaux-du-Dombief is a moderate 22.6 km trail that takes you past multiple lakes and through forest paths, ending back at your starting point.
The region is known for its stunning viewpoints. You can ride to areas offering panoramic vistas, such as the Pic de l'Aigle, which provides breathtaking views of the Jura landscape and even Mont Blanc on clear days. Another route, Stunning view of the lake – View of Lake Vouglans loop from Boissia, offers expansive views over Lake Vouglans.
Absolutely! The Hérisson Waterfalls are a major highlight of the region. While specific gravel routes might not go directly to every cascade, you can plan rides that bring you close to impressive natural spectacles like Le Grand Saut, Fan Waterfall, and Saut Girard Waterfall, often accessible via nearby forest tracks.
The gravel biking routes in Saint-Maurice-Crillat are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the beauty of the lakes, and the variety of forest tracks and paths that make for engaging rides.
Yes, Saint-Maurice-Crillat offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Vouglans Dam – View of Lake Vouglans loop from Pont-de-Poitte is a difficult 66.4 km trail with significant elevation gain, perfect for experienced gravel bikers looking for a longer adventure. Another demanding option is the Chapelle-des-Bois – Chapelle-des-Bois loop from Gare de Saint-Laurent-en-Grandvaux, spanning 74.3 km.
Beyond the trails themselves, the region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit several picturesque lakes such as Petit Maclu Lake, Lake Narlay, and Lake Ilay. The Three Lakes Viewpoint also offers a stunning panorama of the area's aquatic features.
While many routes are classified as moderate or difficult, there are 2 easy gravel bike tours available. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Look for routes around the lakes for generally flatter terrain.


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