Hiking in the Ain: the autumn selection

Autumn hiking in the AinAutumn hiking in the Ain
©Autumn hiking in the Ain

From leisurely family outings to more demanding challenges for thrill-seekers, there’s something for everyone. Flamboyant colors, mild temperatures, natural diversity and unspoilt landscapes… Let’s go!

Not-to-be-missed hikes this autumn! to enjoy the beautiful autumn colors

If hiking in autumn is a real invitation to an inner journey and contemplation, in the Ain region it takes you away from time and constraints! From the highest peaks in the Jura Massif (1720 m – Crêt de la Neige) to the Bugey giant, the Grand Colombier (1534 m)…

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for an invigorating getaway, the Ain region is packed with trails to suit all levels. Here’s a quick overview…

Mollard de Don and Mont Pela 19.4 km - 6h30

The route offers exceptional panoramic views of the Alps, in particular Mont Blanc, and the Rhône valley. A demanding but rewarding hike for lovers of wide open spaces.

Fort l'Écluse on the banks of the Rhône 13.5 km - 5h

The path climbs up from the Rhône, deepening into the forest before revealing the majestic Fort l’Écluse, clinging to the rock face. The climb, punctuated by the breath of the river, opens onto a breathtaking panorama of the valley. An immersion between history and nature.

1h20 from Lyon and Annecy
1 hour from Geneva

Les Roches d'Orvaz 10.2 km - 3h

In the heart of the Combe d’Orvaz, discover a natural amphitheater sculpted by the Semine River. The Roche d’Orvaz lookout offers a remarkable view of the valley and the Roche Fauconnière, where the limestone’s nuances outline the silhouette of a bird in flight.

The maquis trail on the Plateau de Retord 16 km - 5h

As autumn sets in, the Sentier du Maquis takes on golden and glowing hues. Leaves crunch underfoot, a fresh breeze accompanies the climb. This path steeped in history, marked out with memorial panels, resonates differently in the soft light of autumn.

Les Crêtes de Sur-Lyand 9.3 km - 3h30

On the Grand Colombier massif, this hike offers one of the most beautiful views in the Bugey region. The ridges unfurl their lines to face Mont-Blanc, the air is pure and the panoramas spectacular. Then comes the calm of Arvières, a former Carthusian monastery nestled in a green setting. A refuge, an ethnobotanical garden and an almost sacred silence. Here, we walk above the everyday, between grandiose nature and traces of the past.

The Thurignin gorges 14.2 km - 4h15

In autumn, the path through the Thurignin Gorge takes on golden and coppery hues. Leaves crunch underfoot, the air is crisp and the Séran murmurs below. The Cerveyrieu waterfall springs up in the heart of this autumnal setting, offering a refreshing and invigorating break. Between the softness of the undergrowth and the strength of the gorges, this hike is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the spectacle of nature in transition.

The 11 ponds circuit 11.9 km - 3h

In autumn, the ponds of the Dombes region become the scene of a unique spectacle. The trees take on golden hues, the reeds rustle in the breeze, and the sky comes alive with the ballet of migratory birds. A chance to catch a glimpse of egrets, herons, great crested grebes, ducks and swans…

3 ideas for family-friendly hikes to enjoy the beautiful autumn colors with your children

Fresh air, leaves of all shapes and colors, enchanted forests and breathtaking panoramas… Children will be delighted to join in the adventure! Along the way, castles, lakes and waterfalls will beckon.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic or a snack, for a gourmet break in the heart of nature… And if they hang around a bit, don’t rush them too much… They’ll create unforgettable memories!

Precious moments to savour together!

Did you know? The Ain is a truly gourmet region!

The birthplace of Bresse poultry, the world’s leading PDO poultry, Ain is also home to a number of famous PDO cheeses, including Comté and Bleu de Gex. A tradition of good food perpetuated at numerous autumn gourmet events!