The best waterfall hikes and walks around Forêt de Sainte-Apolline

The waterfall hiking trails in Forêt de Sainte-Apolline feature a diverse landscape of dense woodlands and varied terrain. You'll find paths winding through forested areas, often following river valleys, with a mix of gentle slopes and some more challenging ascents. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making the area accessible for various hiking abilities.

Yes, there are options for easier walks. For a relatively short and accessible experience, consider the Vaux de Cernay Waterfalls – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Senlisse. This 3.4-mile (5.4 km) trail leads through woodlands and past the waterfalls, typically completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding adventure, the Vaux Path – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Les-Essarts-le-Roi is a difficult 14.4-mile (23.2 km) trail offering extensive views through the forest and around the lake, taking approximately 6 hours 12 minutes to complete.

The trails in Forêt de Sainte-Apolline are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic beauty of the waterfalls, the tranquility of the dense woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Yes, many of the waterfall trails in the region are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Vaux de Cernay Waterfalls – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Senlisse, a moderate 6.1-mile (9.8 km) path that guides you through scenic forest paths to the waterfalls and back.

A great option for a moderate hike is the Vaux de Cernay Waterfalls – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Senlisse. This 6.1-mile (9.8 km) route offers a balanced challenge with beautiful forest scenery leading to the waterfalls.

For a longer and more immersive experience, the Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake – Dampierre Castle loop from Lévis-Saint-Nom is a difficult 12.7-mile (20.4 km) hike that explores more extensive parts of the forest and includes views of Dampierre Castle, offering a full day out in nature.

Given the varied terrain and potential for damp conditions near waterfalls, we recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Layered clothing is advisable to adapt to changing weather, and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea. Consider bringing trekking poles for stability on uneven paths.

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Many trails, such as the Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake – Dampierre Castle loop from Lévis-Saint-Nom, pass by or offer views of significant landmarks like Dampierre Castle and the picturesque Vaux-en-Cernay Lake.

The duration of waterfall hikes varies significantly based on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, easier loops like the 3.4-mile Vaux de Cernay Waterfalls – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Senlisse can be completed in under two hours, while more challenging and longer routes, such as the 14.4-mile Vaux Path – Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake loop from Les-Essarts-le-Roi, can take over six hours.

For a truly extensive and scenic experience, the Vaux‑en‑Cernay Lake – Maincourt Washhouse loop from Saint-Lambert is a difficult 11.9-mile (19.1 km) route. It offers a comprehensive tour of the area's natural beauty, including the lake and forest, making it a rewarding option for those looking to spend a full day exploring.