Taking advantage of sunny days to explore the mountains—what could be more tempting? France offers a very diverse range of hiking trails, from the Alps to the Jura, passing through the Massif Central, Pyrenees, Corsica, and Vosges.
But where should you go to enjoy the best viewpoints, discover local wildlife and flora, and simply have a great time? Your choice should depend on several factors, but most importantly, you need to pick a hiking route suitable for your skill level.
Don’t worry, because in France there are hikes for both experienced hikers and beginners. With our advice, you will certainly find the ideal trail, for yourself and for your children. Let’s discover this key summer mountain activity!
Some tips before setting off
Some hikes are suitable for casual walkers, while others are reserved for experienced hikers. For instance, the Great Crossing of the Alps (620 km) is famous for its spectacular landscapes, as is the Grande Traversée du Jura—these are not for beginners. The golden rule in the mountains is to know your limits and never underestimate the unpredictable power of nature.
Before heading out, check the characteristics of the route: what is the distance and estimated duration? What is the maximum altitude, and how much elevation gain is there? Is it the right time of year for the trail? Is it a loop or will you need to turn back? Etc.
Also, prepare your mountain hike with the right equipment: sunscreen, sleeping bag if you are hiking multiple days, hiking boots, clothing suitable for possible weather changes (check the forecast!), sunglasses, IGN maps, GPS, water bottle, etc.
Mountain hikes for experienced hikers
Do you love breathtaking landscapes and aren’t afraid of challenges? Here are several hikes you should enjoy.
Mer de Glace – Alps
In Haute-Savoie, near Chamonix, the Mer de Glace is a must-do route. Alternating between walking and sections requiring ladder crossings, this mountain hike allows you to admire this famous glacier and snowy peaks.
This stunning route is, however, intended for experienced mountaineers.
GR20 – Corsica
The GR20 appeals to hiking enthusiasts as it crosses stunning pristine Corsican landscapes: rocky spires, forests, lakes, streams, and even snowy summits, from Calenzana to Conca. The full 180 km trail takes 10 to 16 days, using mountain refuges or tents. Some sections are more challenging than others.
Pic du Midi d'Ossau – Pyrenees
Famous mountain in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, near Saint-Lary, the ascent of Pic du Midi d'Ossau is quite difficult. It requires climbing equipment (ropes, stakes, etc.), caution on slippery surfaces in wet weather, and ideally a mountain guide. The breathtaking views of summits, streams, lakes, and pastures make it worth the effort. You may even spot griffon vultures soaring above.
Pic De Caramantran via Col De Saint-Véran – Hautes-Alpes
This challenging hike is part of the many Queyras routes, a valley in the Alps also popular for snowshoeing in winter. Covering 17 km, this trail is for experienced hikers, with 1375 meters of elevation gain and about 8 hours of hiking.
The route offers incredible viewpoints (Écrins Massif, Ceillac Valley, etc.) and opportunities to observe mountain wildlife.
Mountain hikes for beginners
You don’t need to be a trekking expert to enjoy a hike. The following trails are both easy and spectacular.
Néouvielle Nature Reserve – Pyrenees
Mixing forests, peaks, and lakes (70 in total), with multiple hiking trails, the Néouvielle Nature Reserve (Hautes-Pyrénées) charms most visitors! You can observe a diverse flora (Scots pines, rhododendrons, androsaces...) and endemic mountain fauna (capercaillies, chamois, desmans...).
Lakes Loop – Alps
Near the village of Alpe d’Huez, the Lakes Loop is suitable for beginner hikers and children (12 km round-trip). You can admire the Belledonne and Grandes Rousses Massifs, as well as Lakes Besson, Noir, Carrelet, and Faucille.
Stevenson Trail (GR70) – Massif Central
In the Cévennes, this 272 km trail, made famous by writer Robert Louis Stevenson, connects Le Puy-en-Velay to Alès. This hike features waterfalls, lakes (Nassau, Bouchet...) and cliffs and mountains, including the iconic Mont Lozère.
Towns and villages along the way also merit stops, including Pradelles, Gazeille with its castle, and Le Puy-en-Velay, home to the Romanesque Saint-Michel Church perched on a rock.
Hirschsteine Trail – Vosges
Of medium difficulty (not recommended for young children), this 11 km Vosges forest trail is known for its famous rocks and beautiful views of the Munster Valley and the Schlucht Pass.
Lac Vert – Alps
Located in Savoie, Lac Vert is an easy, short mountain hike (1 hour). Starting from Plaine-Joux, you follow roads and forest trails. Enjoy views of the Mont-Blanc Massif reflected in the emerald lake, as well as dense larch forests.