4.6
(3143)
21,508
hikers
255
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Pilat traverse a diverse landscape within the Pilat Regional Natural Park, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. The park features mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 140 to 1,432 meters, offering varied experiences from river valleys to high-altitude moors. Deep forests, such as the Taillard, cover significant areas, while the Rhône Valley provides distinct southern flora. The region is characterized by its extensive network of marked trails, connecting natural features like waterfalls, peat bogs, and panoramic viewpoints.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.5
(33)
332
hikers
10.6km
03:02
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(22)
95
hikers
5.31km
01:39
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(19)
77
hikers
21.2km
06:10
560m
560m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(12)
98
hikers
7.60km
02:21
240m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(10)
53
hikers
19.0km
05:33
500m
500m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Pilat
Crets, chirats and broom - 11 hikes in the Pilat
Via Rhôna — cycling the Rhone Valley Way from Lyon to the Mediterranean
The Rhône by bike – sporty escapes around Lyon
The trails of Ardèche — on the train tracks by bike
Via Fluvia – Cycle Route between Loire and Rhône
Fastpacking across France’s Pilat Regional Nature Park
Running near Lyon –10 trail outings less than an hour from the city
Beyond the mountains – the Rhône to the Ardèche
‘La Joyeuse Vadrouille’ – two months cycling with the family
good elevation gain to the castle.
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Rochetaillée Castle is a castle in Saint-Étienne (in Rochetaillée) in the Loire department. It is listed as a historical monument by decree of 5 April 19301. Its date of construction remains unknown but we find at least its trace in the literature in 1173. Indeed, the permutation of 1173 between the Count of Forez and the Church of Lyon indicates that whoever will have the Rochetaillée castle will owe homage and loyalty to the Count2. Situated on a rocky peak that makes it inaccessible to the north, the castle was composed of four towers, three of which remain today.
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Nice, beautiful view, changing depending on the weather
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Dam with a beautiful history and architecture, the view is worth it
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It is one of the most beautiful spots in Pilat.
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Built in 1866, this dam was designed to regulate the waters of the Furan River and prevent flooding. The site is surrounded by hiking trails offering spectacular views of waterfalls and natural landscapes.
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A historic castle nestled in a magnificent natural setting. An enriching hike for history buffs.
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There are over 220 hiking routes in Pilat that are accessible from bus stations. These trails offer a wide variety of experiences, from easy strolls to challenging ascents, catering to all skill levels.
Pilat offers incredibly diverse terrain, even on routes accessible by bus. You can expect mountainous landscapes with panoramic views, deep forests, wild river valleys, and unique areas like peat bogs and high-altitude moors. The park's elevation ranges from 140 to 1,432 meters, ensuring varied scenery.
Yes, Pilat has numerous easy and family-friendly hikes accessible by bus. For example, the The Saut de Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf is an easy 5.4 km loop that offers beautiful scenery suitable for families. Many routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, Pilat offers several difficult routes accessible by bus. The Gouffre d'Enfer Dam – Pas-du-Riot Dam loop from Le Bessat is a demanding 21.2 km hike with significant elevation changes, perfect for experienced hikers looking for a strenuous adventure.
Many bus-accessible trails in Pilat lead to fascinating landmarks and natural features. You can explore impressive dams like the Couzon Dam or the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam. The region also boasts stunning summits such as Crêt de l'Œillon and Crêt de la Perdrix, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Yes, many of the hikes accessible by bus in Pilat are circular routes, allowing you to start and end your journey at the same bus stop without needing to arrange return transport. This makes planning your trip much easier. For instance, the View of Côte Rôtie – View of Ampuis loop from Ampuis is a moderate circular hike.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the stunning panoramic views at the summits to the tranquil forest paths and picturesque river valleys. The accessibility via public transport is also frequently highlighted as a major benefit, allowing hikers to explore without a car.
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Pilat, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock. This helps protect the park's diverse wildlife and ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Pilat offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer is popular for its warm weather, though higher elevations provide cooler temperatures. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on lower-altitude trails, but requires appropriate gear and checking weather conditions for snow or ice.
Yes, some routes accessible by bus offer glimpses into the region's rich history. For example, the Rochetaillée Castle – Superb view loop from Rochetaillée is a challenging hike that includes views of the historic Rochetaillée Castle, a 12th-century structure. You can also find ancient villages with well-preserved medieval architecture, such as Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez and Malleval, along various trails.
Pilat is home to beautiful water features. The The Saut de Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf specifically highlights a waterfall. Additionally, the region features several picturesque lakes and dams, such as the Couzon Dam, which offer serene spots for hikers.


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