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Itinerant hiking : : From the enchanting Valserine to the Jura summit
Description
The Valserine may not be a fairy, but it enchants with every step. Its magical valley guides you between high plateaux and Jura peaks, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Alps. A journey between wild nature and poetry.
A rich and varied itinerary of authentic villages, unspoilt countryside and spectacular peaks. Explore the Haute Chaîne du Jura, from the peaceful banks of the Valserine to the highest peaks of the Jura massif, with breathtaking views of the Alps.
The route runs through the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, and part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve: a protected, unspoilt area to be explored with respect.
Good to know - Protected area
Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to special regulations:
Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead.
Camping in tents prohibited.
Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
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
Overview on river
Mountain view
Panoramic view
Lake view
Mountain location
In a nature reserve
Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Close to a public transportation
Bus stop < 500 m
Type of land
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
3328OT - CRÊT DE LA NEIGE and 3327ET - MOREZ LES ROUSSES
Updated by
Office de Tourisme du Pays de Gex - 29/01/2026
www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Report a problem
Reception complements
▶ This route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Please respect the regulations.
The rules include the following:
Dogs are strictly forbidden, even on a lead.
Plant picking and mineral collecting are also prohibited.
▶ 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).
▶ The Patou or guard dog: what attitude should you adopt?
When out hiking, it's not uncommon to come across flocks of sheep or goats guarded by guard dogs known as patous. These dogs, formidable against predators such as wolves, bears and lynxes, can frighten hikers with their barking.
The patou protects flocks in total autonomy. Its main role is to deter intruders and alert the shepherd. Raised among the ewes from an early age, he learns to protect them at all times, often in groups.
▶ To avoid problems with a patou:
Identify grazing areas before setting off.
Keep your distance and go around flocks if possible.
In the event of an encounter, stay calm, turn back slowly or stop to let the dog sniff you out.
Don't try to pet or feed the animals, avoid sudden movements, don't run, and avoid taking photos.
▶ For runners:
Do not run when approaching a herd.
Take off your headphones to hear the dog's barking.
By adopting these behaviors, you'll be able to cohabit serenely with guard dogs on your hikes.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
▶ Day 1: Lélex → Bellecombe
⏱ Approximately 3h30 - 11.2 km - D+ 514 m / D- 153 m
From Lélex, follow the GR (red and white markings) towards Pont de la Fruitière. Pass through le Niaizet, les Closettes, then branch off onto the yellow PR to reach la Bretta, la Guienette and finally Bellecombe. A gentle warm-up between mountain pastures and forests.
▶ Day 2: Bellecombe → Mijoux
⏱ Approx. 3h50 - 14.4 km - D+ 175 m / D- 443 m
Start from Bellecombe along the GR to La Maire, then follow the yellow PR via chez Humberts, Croaby and Cariche. Then join the Manon and return to the GR to cross Lajoux before arriving in Mijoux. A beautiful day among valleys and hamlets.
▶ Day 3: Mijoux → Refuge de la Loge
⏱ Approximately 5h30 - 13.8 km - D+ 899 m / D- 451 m
From Mijoux, climb the GR to La Faucille, then continue to Grand Mont Rond, Colomby de Gex, Col de Crozet and reach Refuge de la Loge. A more alpine stage in the heart of the Nature Reserve, with spectacular views.
▶ Day 4: Refuge de la Loge → Lélex (via Crêt de la Neige)
⏱ Approximately 5h - 12.8 km - D+ 416 m / D- 950 m
Set out to tackle the highest peaks in the Jura: Brillonne, Crêt de la Neige, Reculet. Descend the 32 contours to the Menues plateau, then return to Lélex via the Pont du Niaizet. A grandiose finale between ridges, forests and lookouts.
1ʳᵉ stage - Bellecombe: Overnight stay of your choice at Verguet or La Guienette, for a warm welcome in the heart of the combes.
2ᵉ stage - Mijoux: Stay at La Michaille or the Gîte Communal, in a friendly atmosphere between mountain and village.
3ᵉ stage - Refuge d'altitude: Overnight stay at the Refuge de la Loge, in the heart of nature, for an authentic immersion experience on the crests of the Jura.
Animals
No. Dogs strictly forbidden in nature reserves
Data author
