



An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura massif and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, with spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the Alps in the background.
An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura massif and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, with spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the Alps in the background.
The route takes in 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 is prohibited.
Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.
Closed temporarily.
Office de Tourisme du Pays de Gex - 02/12/2025
www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Report a problem
Close to GR footpath
Mountain location
In a nature reserve
Phone : 04 50 28 09 16
Email : contact@paysdegex-tourisme.com
Website : https://www.paysdegex-montsjura.com
Stone
Ground
Map references :
3328OT - CRÊT DE LA NEIGE and 3327ET - MOREZ LES ROUSSES
▶ 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.
The descent of the 32 contours, just after the summit of Le Reculet, is relatively steep and requires a little care, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
▶ Day 1: Lélex → Mijoux
⏱ Approximately 4 h - 14.4 km - D+ 471 m / D- 372 m
Follow the yellow markings towards Moulin Pierre Louis, then pass through La Pralouse, Croaby and Sous Cariche. Rejoin the GR (red and white) to Le Manon, cross Lajoux and finish in Mijoux.
▶ Day 2: Mijoux → Refuge de la Loge
⏱ Approximately 6 h - 13.8 km - D+ 899 m / D- 451 m
Take the red and white GR, go through the village towards La Faucille. Continue towards Grand Mont Rond, Colomby de Gex, Col de Crozet, as far as Refuge de la Loge. You are partly in the National Nature Reserve.
▶ Day 3: Refuge de la Loge → Lélex (via Crêt de la Neige)
⏱ Approximately 5h30 - 12.8 km - D+ 416 m / D- 950 m
Follow the red and white GR towards Brillonne d'en Haut, les Brulats Frézy, sous le Crêt, then Crêt de la Neige and le Reculet. Then take the yellow PR back down to the Menues flat via the 32 contours, cross the road, then the Pont du Niaizet and end up in Lélex.
▶ 1ʳᵉ stage - Mijoux: Overnight stay at La Michaille or the Gîte Communal, for a warm and friendly welcome.
▶ 2ᵉ stage - Refuge de la Loge: Overnight in a mountain refuge, for an authentic immersion in the heart of the Jura crests.
No. dogs strictly forbidden.