The Tramway Trail

The trail features a varied and often rugged terrain. You'll encounter a mix of non-paved sections, natural paths, asphalt, gravel, and flat stones. Expect stony and earthy parts, as well as hard surfaces like asphalt and cement. The route follows paths, roads, and even mountain hiking trails, offering a diverse jogging experience.

You can access the trail from several entry points, including Parc Karl Marx, Bois des Vouillants, Gare de Pariset, Saint-Nizier du Moucherotte, and Pré Nouvel. Parking availability varies by entry point, so it's advisable to check local parking options for your chosen starting location.

No, this trail is considered difficult and is not suitable for beginners or families with young children. It requires a very good level of physical fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and some alpine experience due to steep ascents and descents, and varied terrain. It is also not suitable for strollers.

The best times to jog this route are generally spring, summer, and autumn when the weather is milder and the paths are drier. Winter conditions can make the stony and earthy sections challenging, and some tunnels along the route are unlit, which could be more difficult in shorter daylight hours or icy conditions.

While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, given the trail's difficult rating, varied terrain, and potential for steep sections, it's recommended that dogs joining you are well-conditioned and accustomed to challenging trails. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other trail users.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and jog the old tramway Région Grenoble — loop. It is a publicly accessible heritage and sporting path.

This trail is notable for tracing the historical route of the tramway that once connected Grenoble to the Vercors plateau. You'll find 16 historical panels providing insights into the tramway's history and the region's heritage. Key highlights include the Old Tramway Route (Vercors) itself, and you'll pass by landmarks like the former Seyssins station and the Olympic ski jump in Saint-Nizier du Moucherotte.

Yes, the trail offers "superbes points de vue" (superb viewpoints). As you ascend from Grenoble towards Saint-Nizier du Moucherotte, you'll get views of the Vercors massif and the View of Les Trois Pucelles, especially in areas like the Bois des Vouillants and past the Tour Sans-Venin.

Yes, the route largely follows La Via du Tram (92% of the route) and also passes through sections of the P'tites Routes du Soleil, étape 9, Grenoble / Villard-de-Lans (51%), Tour des 4 Montagnes (8%), and Tour du Vercors à pied (8%).

Given the difficult nature and varied terrain, you should bring sturdy jogging shoes with good grip, sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather. A headlamp or flashlight is highly recommended as there are unlit tunnels. A map or GPS device is also advisable, as the trail is marked with specific yellow and green signage but can be extensive.

Be prepared for steep ascents, particularly on the road to the hamlet of Vouillants and Rue des Écoles, and steep descents in areas like Saint-Nizier du Moucherotte. There are also unlit tunnels, so a light source is essential. The trail's varied surface requires good sure-footedness throughout.