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France
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Saint-Claude

Lac de Bonlieu

Easy hikes and walks around Lac de Bonlieu

4.5

(3312)

26,509

hikers

186

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu are set within a glacial lake region at 791 meters altitude, characterized by deep, clear waters and surrounding forests. The landscape features dramatic cliffs, varied flora including peat bogs, and offers a tranquil escape. The area is highly protected, encompassing diverse natural environments like forests and prairies, providing a rich setting for outdoor activities.

Best easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Lake Bonlieu – Lake Bonlieu, France loop from Lac de Bonlieu, a 2.0 miles (3.3 km) trail that takes 53 minutes to complete. This route offers close observation of the lacustrine flora along the lake's edge.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Bonlieu – Lac de Bonlieu loop from Lac de Bonlieu, an easy 4.0 miles (6.4 km) path. This trail provides views of the lake and surrounding forests, with gentle elevation changes.
  • Local hikers also love the Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu, a 1.6 miles (2.5 km) trail leading through sub-forests and along the lake, often completed in about 40 minutes.
  • Hiking around Lac de Bonlieu is defined by glacial lake shores, dense forests, and impressive cliffs. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many family-friendly routes.
  • The routes in Lac de Bonlieu are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 3,400 reviews. More than 28,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Bonlieu's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 30, 2026

4.4

(7)

24

hikers

#1.

Lake Bonlieu – Lac de Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu

7.26km

01:58

100m

100m

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

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Easy

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

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

Easy

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

Easy

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

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Greg
May 29, 2026, Petit Maclu

lovely lunch spot

0

0

Kristian
September 1, 2025, Petit Lac Maclu

The smaller of the two Maclu Lakes, with an easy hiking trail along its shore.

Translated by Google

5

0

Kristian
September 1, 2025, Lac du Grand Maclu

A gravel, easy-to-walk hiking trail runs along the lakeshore, offering repeated, beautiful views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.

Translated by Google

5

0

Kristian
September 1, 2025, Lac du Grand Maclu

Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.

Translated by Google

5

0

Beautiful view through a clearing onto Lac Le Grand Maclu.

Translated by Google

5

0

Kristian
August 31, 2025, Tuffière

View of the tuff rocks with a small waterfall and beautiful stream.

Translated by Google

2

0

Kristian
August 31, 2025, Vermooste Bäume

Beautiful path to the waterfalls with mossy trees.

Translated by Google

2

0

View of the Cascade de L'Eventail. A small, rocky path leads directly to the waterfall.

Translated by Google

7

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Lac de Bonlieu?

There are 56 easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu, offering a variety of options for all skill levels. In total, the region features nearly 200 hiking routes.

What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes around Lac de Bonlieu?

Easy hikes around Lac de Bonlieu offer stunning natural beauty, characterized by the deep, clear waters of the glacial lake, framed by impressive cliffs and dense forests. You'll encounter diverse environments, including peat bogs with varied flora, prairies, and panoramic viewpoints. The landscape often evokes comparisons to Canadian scenery.

Are there any circular easy walks around Lac de Bonlieu?

Yes, many easy routes around Lac de Bonlieu are circular. For example, the Lake Bonlieu – Lac de Bonlieu loop is an easy 6.4 km path offering views of the lake and surrounding forests. Another option is the Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu, a 2.5 km trail through sub-forests and along the lake.

What are some notable natural features or viewpoints accessible on easy trails?

The region is rich in natural features. You can find panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forests from belvederes like the Belvédère de la Ronde. The lake itself is a glacial marvel, and its western and southern shores feature unique peat bogs. The area is also close to the source of the Hérisson River, which feeds the famous Cascades du Hérisson.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu?

Many trails around Lac de Bonlieu are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog on a leash to protect the highly diverse local fauna, which includes lynx and peregrine falcons. Swimming for dogs, like for humans, is strictly prohibited in Lac de Bonlieu to preserve its ecological balance.

Are there family-friendly easy hikes suitable for children?

Absolutely. The easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu are generally well-suited for families. The Lake Bonlieu – Lake Bonlieu, France loop, at 3.3 km, is a popular choice that takes about an hour and allows for close observation of the lacustrine flora, making it engaging for children.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Lac de Bonlieu?

The easy trails in Lac de Bonlieu are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning views of the glacial lake, and the well-maintained paths that allow for a peaceful escape into nature.

Is it possible to access the Cascades du Hérisson from Lac de Bonlieu via an easy walk?

While Lac de Bonlieu is one of the sources of the Hérisson River, a direct easy walk to the main Cascades du Hérisson from the lake might be longer or involve more varied terrain than a typical 'easy' designation. It's generally recommended to access the waterfalls from dedicated starting points for a more straightforward experience, though the area offers many interconnected trails.

Are there any easy hikes that offer views of other lakes in the Jura region?

Yes, the Lac de Bonlieu area is part of the 'valley of the four lakes' and the 'Route des Lacs Jurassiens'. An easy hike like the Grand Maclu Lake – Little Maclu Lake loop, starting from La Chaux-du-Dombief, offers views of other glacial lakes in the vicinity, providing a broader perspective of the region's unique landscape.

What is the best time of year for easy hiking around Lac de Bonlieu?

The region is beautiful year-round. In summer, the vibrant green forests provide shade. Autumn brings dramatic colors of ochre and orange, making it a picturesque time for hiking. Even in winter, the landscape transforms into a pristine white, offering a serene experience, though some paths might require appropriate footwear.

Is there parking available near the easy hiking trailheads?

Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads around Lac de Bonlieu. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, or by checking local tourism resources like Terre d'Émeraude Tourisme for detailed access points.

Can I reach Lac de Bonlieu by public transport for easy hikes?

While the Jura region is accessible, public transport options directly to Lac de Bonlieu might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the Bonlieu commune or nearby towns. For detailed and up-to-date information on public transport, consulting regional transport authorities or local tourism offices is recommended.

Most popular routes around Lac de Bonlieu

Waterfall hikes around Lac de Bonlieu

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