Forests in Laon
Forest Guide
The area around Laon is home to 4 major forests, which form a verdant landscape enveloping the historic hilltop city. These woodlands, primarily located to the west and east, feature diverse ecosystems with rolling terrain, a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, and a network of ponds and paths. The forests in Laon provide extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, jogging, mountain biking, and cycling.
Forests in Laon
This collection of the best forests in Laon includes more than 300 routes for activities like hiking and cycling, with experiences shared by more than 3,000 visitors. The largest of these is the Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain, part of the Natura 2000 network, which offers over 50 distinct hiking trails. To the east, the Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy provides flatter terrain ideal for its numerous road and touring cycling routes. Other significant woodlands include the Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse and the Forêt Domaniale De Marle, which features rolling plains. The extensive trail systems within these state-managed forests allow for deep immersion into the region's natural and historical landscapes.
380
Routes
4.5
(591)
Average rating
3566
Explored with komoot
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.4
(215)
1,357
hikers
#1.
Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain
Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain is a vast national forest in France, offering diverse terrain and numerous routes for hiking, jogging, and cycling.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.6
(228)
1,158
hikers
#2.
Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse
Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse is a national forest offering diverse terrain for hiking, mountain biking, jogging, and cycling routes. Its varied landscape supports rich biodiversity.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Gravel riding
Road cycling
Cycling
4.4
(130)
900
hikers
#3.
Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy
Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy is a 1,327-hectare national forest in France, offering diverse landscapes and flat terrain ideal for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Running
Mountain biking
Road cycling
Cycling
4.7
(18)
151
runners
#4.
Forêt Domaniale De Marle
Forêt Domaniale De Marle is a national forest in France with diverse forested areas and rolling plains, offering varied routes for cycling and jogging.
Running
Road cycling
Cycling
Most popular routes in Laon
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main forests near Laon?
The area around Laon features four major state-managed forests. These include the Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain, Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse, Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy, and Forêt Domaniale De Marle. Together, they offer a network of over 370 marked routes through diverse woodland landscapes.
What activities are available in the forests of Laon?
The primary activities in Laon's forests are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. There are over 120 hiking trails and more than 140 routes for cycling and road cycling. Jogging and gravel biking are also common.
Which is the largest forest near Laon?
The Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain is the largest forest in the area, covering nearly 9,000 hectares. It is part of the Natura 2000 network and contains over 560 kilometers (348 miles) of paths, with more than 140 distinct routes available for various activities.
What kind of terrain is in Forêt Domaniale de Samoussy?
The Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy is a 1,327-hectare forest known for its relatively flat terrain. This makes it particularly suitable for road cycling and touring bicycle routes. The forest also offers trails for hiking and mountain biking.
What is Forêt Domaniale de Coucy Basse known for?
The Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. It contains over 110 routes, with a significant number of trails for hiking, jogging, and mountain biking. Its varied terrain supports a rich biodiversity.
Are there hiking trails in the forests near Laon?
Yes, there are more than 120 designated hiking trails across the forests of Laon. The Forêt Domaniale De Saint-Gobain has over 50 hiking routes, and the Forêt Domaniale De Coucy Basse offers more than 40. These trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to different fitness levels.
What are the cycling options in the Laon forests?
The forests around Laon provide numerous cycling opportunities. There are over 80 road cycling routes, with many concentrated in the flatter Forêt Domaniale De Samoussy. Additionally, there are more than 60 touring bicycle routes and over 40 mountain bike trails across the region.
Are there family-friendly or easy walking routes near Laon?
Yes, the forests offer options for easier walks. The Forêt Domaniale de Vauclair, located near the Chemin des Dames, is known for its marked trails suitable for family walks. The flatter terrain in parts of the Forêt de Samoussy also provides accessible options for walkers of all abilities.
Are the forests near Laon dog-friendly?
Dogs are generally permitted in France's national forests, including those around Laon, provided they are kept under control. It is advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially during wildlife breeding seasons in spring and early summer, to avoid disturbing the fauna.
What is the best season to visit the forests in Laon?
The forests around Laon can be visited year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers full, green canopies. Autumn is characterized by vibrant foliage colors, and winter provides a starker landscape for quiet walks. Each season offers a different experience for hiking and cycling.
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