Alert
Alerts
Hiking: Fort l'Ecluse on the banks of the Rhône
1 alert on this circuit
FORT L'ÉCLUSE:
Alerte visiteurs
Pass’Découvertes de l’Ain, un pass numérique permettant de visiter 3 sites à prix malin !
3 sites au choix, hors Parc des Oiseaux : 19 €
3 sites au choix + le Parc : 31 €
IGN cards
Description
This is a history and nature trail, starting in the fort itself. The final ascent rewards walkers with an exceptional panorama before descending to the fort.
Departing from Fort l'Écluse when it opens from June to September, the trail winds through the forest before reaching the banks of the Rhône. It winds its way between stone staircases, medieval ruins and through woods to the heights of Léaz, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Rhône valley. The route then continues to the top of the upper Fort, offering panoramic views over the Rhône gorge, the Vuache and the Étournel marsh. The descent to the lower Fort concludes this loop, rich in history and emotion.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Date and time
- From 15/06/2026 to 30/09/2026
Additional information
Contact
Phone : 04 50 28 09 16
Email : contact@paysdegex-tourisme.com
Website : https://www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Open period
Closed temporarily.
Environments
Forest location
Overview on river
Type of land
Rock
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Topo guides and map references
Topo guides references :
Hiking in Pays de Gex and the Haute Chaine du Jura: on sale at Pays de Gex tourist agencies: 9€.
Map references :
3330OT - BELLEGARDE-SUR-VALSERINE
Updated by
Office de Tourisme du Pays de Gex - 27/12/2025
www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Report a problem
Reception complements
▶ Before setting off :
Check the general and local weather forecast, and make sure there's no precipitation.
Find out about the approach route, the height of the itinerary, the time it will take to complete the climb, and any possible escapes (IGN map, GPS, topo-guide, etc.).
Evaluate possible risks by asking mountain professionals, mountain huts and gîtes.
Inform someone close to you of your objective, and contact them again in the event of any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with telephone numbers for each, vehicle(s), parking, etc.
Avoid setting off alone, and use equipment that is suitable for the activity, adjusted and in good condition: headlamp, complete first-aid kit, survival blanket, etc.
In the event of a problem, call 112 (European emergency number).
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
(1) From the parking area, enter Fort l'Écluse via the Porte de France. Cross the lower courtyard, then exit through the Genève gate, which opens onto the surrounding woods.
(2) A narrow path on the right winds gently through the forest, before crossing a metal staircase. The walk continues on a wider path that veers to the right, down a ramp at the edge of a railway tunnel.
(3) At the bottom of the descent, join a road on the left, follow it to the right for a few moments, before taking a discreet path along the Rhone.
(4) This section offers a refreshing atmosphere beside the water: cross a succession of footbridges ressembling little suspension bridges over wetlands, and then begin an ascent towards the hamlet of Lavoux.
(5) At this crossroads, you can shorten the walk by returning directly to the parking area via the road on your right. Alternatively, continue left along a quiet road before crossing the railway line.
(6) The path then leads to the Moulin de Condière, nestling on the banks of the river where traces of a bygone era are still present.
(7) Then head up towards Léaz, along a winding, shady and peaceful path. Pass through the village and take a safe, well-marked path.
(8) Follow the signs for “Aux Marais”, which opens up a rural landscape of clearings and hedgerows.
(9) Continue straight ahead on a path through meadows, then begin a descent towards Haut de Longeray, with beautiful views of the Rhône below.
(10) The climb gradually resumes towards the upper Fort, winding through wooded terrain.
(11) From Les Binsets, a 200-metre round trip takes you to a magnificent viewpoint, offering exceptional panoramic views of the Rhône cluse, the Vuache and the Etournel ponds.
(12) All that remains is to descend to the Lower Fort, taking the last section of the trail. Take care when crossing the road near the Fort tunnel, just before returning to the parking area.
Animals
Yes. Pets are not allowed inside the fort.
Data author
