4.4
(4276)
24,493
hikers
221
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois traverse a landscape characterized by its Vosgian relief, featuring rounded mountain summits known as "ballons" and extensive beech-fir forests. The region includes diverse ecosystems such as peat bogs, scree slopes, and high prairies. Hikers will find a variety of terrain, from dense woodlands to open mountain pastures, with elevations reaching up to 1,216 meters at Ballon de Servance.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
4.6
(111)
935
hikers
3.56km
01:00
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(97)
478
hikers
13.5km
04:22
590m
590m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.7
(70)
302
hikers
11.8km
04:06
630m
630m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(59)
301
hikers
5.92km
02:01
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(16)
102
hikers
15.0km
05:46
870m
870m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois
At the Ballon d'Alsace, one of the highest points of the Vosges, the forest gives way, revealing beautiful landscapes dominating the rest of the massif. Here, a little further north of the summit, the view looks out over the Haute Moselle valley, surrounded by more modest wooded mountains.
0
0
The rope by the stones is no longer attached and can no longer be used. In some sections, the path has become very narrow
1
0
Chalet very well located, exceptional view from its walkway and balcony. Truly deplorable that vandals have damaged the window.
0
0
Too bad the dam is currently under construction.
2
0
A fantastic view is guaranteed, the terrain is almost alpine.
3
0
Hiking from the balloon over the mountain ridge through the High Vosges promises wonderful solitude and panoramic views.
3
0
Caution: very wet, slippery path, wear good shoes, especially from September onwards.
1
0
The view and the path are simply fun, rocky and a really great view.
0
0
There are over 200 hiking routes accessible directly from bus stations in the Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois. These trails cater to various fitness levels, with 32 easy, 134 moderate, and 40 difficult options.
Yes, the region offers several easy, family-friendly routes accessible by bus. For a pleasant and scenic walk, consider the Beautiful views – Ballon d'Alsace loop from Col du Ballon d'Alsace. This route is relatively short and offers rewarding vistas suitable for families.
The Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois is rich in diverse natural features. You can expect to encounter dense beech-fir forests, rounded mountain summits known as "ballons" like the Ballon de Servance, and unique hydrological formations such as peat bogs and cascades. The region also features high prairies and moorlands, offering varied landscapes.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails in the Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. An example is the Ballon d'Alsace – Rummel Waterfalls loop from Col du Ballon d'Alsace, which offers a moderate challenge and includes a beautiful waterfall.
Hikers can discover several interesting landmarks. The iconic La Planche des Belles Filles summit is a significant point, as is the Ballon de Servance. You might also encounter the Chevrères Pass or the tranquil Sailley Refuge and Fountain on the Ballon de Servance.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,300 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning panoramic views from the 'ballons', and the peaceful immersion in nature offered by the diverse forest ecosystems.
Absolutely. The region is known for its unique hydrological and geological formations. The Ballon d'Alsace – Rummel Waterfalls loop from Col du Ballon d'Alsace is a great example, leading you to beautiful cascades. You can also find trails that pass by peat bogs and scree slopes, showcasing the diverse natural landscape.
The Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois offers unique experiences in different seasons. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while summer provides pleasant temperatures for higher altitude hikes. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, though some trails may require appropriate gear due to snow and ice.
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes accessible by bus. These often involve significant elevation gain and longer distances. The region's mountainous terrain, with peaks like the Ballon de Servance, provides ample opportunity for strenuous and rewarding hikes.
The reserve is a habitat for a rich array of protected species. Keep an eye out for birds like the Capercaillie, Hazel Grouse, and various woodpeckers. If you're lucky, you might even spot larger mammals such as Chamois or Lynx. The diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to peat bogs, support a remarkable biodiversity.
Many trails in the Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois provide breathtaking panoramic views. The rounded summits, or 'ballons', are particularly known for their expansive vistas. Consider the Lake Alfeld – Valley view loop from Col du Ballon d'Alsace for stunning perspectives over the surrounding valleys and lakes.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.