Hiking: From La Faucille to the summit of Colomby de Gex

One of the most beautiful stretches of hiking in the Haute Chaîne du Jura.

A magnificent route along the ridges from the centre of La Faucille (1320m), with remarkable views of the Alps on a clear day.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step: From the centre of La Faucille, head towards the Hôtel la Petite Chaumière, then towards the ski lift chalet, go up towards the Luge sur Rail building, turn right onto the tarmac road signposted ‘Tyrolienne’, walk for around 10 minutes. At the wide bend, at the hiking sign, take the path that climbs up through the undergrowth towards ‘Grand Montrond’. After a 20-25 minute walk, the path leaves the forest to join a ski slope (Gélinottes ski lift). Continue along this open stretch of track until you reach the chalet Le Crozat, at the foot of Grand Montrond. In fine weather, sheep graze here (always avoid the herds and their dogs). The path then climbs up the side of Grand Montrond. In around 20 minutes, you will reach the summit at an altitude of 1596 m. Continue south on the ridge path along the GR9 (red and white markings): turn right on reaching the summit, as far as Colomby de Gex (pylon visible further on). The return journey is identical to the outward journey.

More information:
Safety instructions:This trail is located in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, so please respect its regulations: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.

Itinerary

In detail

  • Distance: 13.2 km
  • Markup: BALISE
  • Elevation gain : 613 m
  • Negative elevation gain : 613 m
  • Daily duration: 280 min
  • Type of route: ALLER_RETOUR
  • Beaconing accuracy: Follow the yellow PR signs
  • Nature of the land: Rock
  • Nature of the land: Stone
  • Nature of the land: Ground
  • Nature of the land: Grit
  • Nature of the land: Not suitable for strollers

Opening

From 01/04 to 30/11.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Rates

Free access.

Facilities & services

Facilities

  • Free car park
  • Car park

Host language(s)

  • French