Leaving from Lélex, this loop route combines the main GTJ route with a variant via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille.
The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the crests of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking scenery. On one side, the view is of the peaks, on the other, of Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura and part of the Réserve naturelle nationale de la Haute Chaîne, the hike takes place in a protected natural area.
Day 1: Lélex -> Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne du Jura,
You follow the trail through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Reserve.
Approx. 6h10, 16.8 km, (D+985m / D-892)
From Lélex, take the GR (red and white) at la veille chapelle, climb towards le Ratou, le refuge de la Loge, col de Crozet, Colomby de Gex, Grand Mont Rond, la Faucille then Mijoux.
Day 2: Mijoux -> Les Moussières.
Approx. 4h45, 15.4 km, (D+499m / D-324)
From Mijoux, take the GR (red and white) towards Lajoux, le Manon, Cariche, les Molunes, le Bas de Liasia, les Rasses and then Les Moussières.
Day 3: Les Moussières -> Lélex
Approx. 5h45, 19.9 km, (D+424m / D-637)
From Les Moussières take the GR (red and white) towards La Muras, Pré Grandvaux, lac de l'Embouteilleux, l'Emboissieux, au Berbouiller, Le Berbois, la Borne au Lion, les Closettes, le Niaizet and Lélex.
The loop can be shortened to 2.5 days.
Part of the route is located in a nature reserve, so please respect the regulations specific to this area:
Dogs are forbidden, even on a leash.
Tents are also forbidden.
More information:
Safety instructions :This trail crosses part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, so please respect its regulations. https://www.rnn-hautechainedujura.fr/Among these rules: Dogs forbidden, even on a leash!Before setting off :Check the general and local weather forecast, and make sure there's no precipitation.Find out about the approach to the route, its height, how long it will take to reach the summit and any possible escapes (IGN map, GPS, topo-guide, etc.).Evaluate possible risks by asking mountain professionals, refuges and gîtes.Inform someone close to you of your objective, and contact them again if there are any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with telephone numbers for each, vehicle(s), parking.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).This route borders a mountain pasture where Patous dogs are present:The Patou or guard dog: what attitude should you adopt?When 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 the herds 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 during your hikes.
Itinerary
In detail
- Distance: 52.2 km
- Markup: BALISE
- Elevation gain : 1855 m
- Negative elevation gain : 1855 m
- Duration of itinerary: 3 day(s)
- Type of route: BOUCLE
- Beaconing accuracy: Red and white (GR) and yellow (PR de Pays) markings
- Nature of the land: Rock
- Nature of the land: Stone
- Nature of the land: Ground
- Nature of the land: Hard coating (tar, cement, flooring)
- Nature of the land: Grit
- Nature of the land: Not suitable for strollers
Opening
From 01/04 to 30/11/2024.
Subject to favorable weather.
Rates
Free access. Stage 1: Overnight stay in Mijoux at your choice of Gîte Communal de la Valserine, Gîte de la Michaille or Les Berlicants.
Stage 2: Overnight stay in Les Moussières at your choice of Gîtes Au Chalet, Gîte De La Platière or Refuge Sous La Joux.
Facilities & services
Facilities
- Car park
Adapted tourism
- Not accessible in a wheelchair
Host language(s)
- French
