The best walks and hikes around Épinal

Épinal offers a vast network of over 2000 hiking trails. These routes cater to all experience levels, with approximately 800 easy trails, 1000 moderate trails, and nearly 300 more challenging options.

The terrain around Épinal is highly diverse. You'll find extensive forests, including the vast Épinal Forest, gentle paths along the Moselle River and Canal des Vosges, and routes around picturesque lakes like Lake Lispach. Further afield in the Vosges Massif, you can encounter more mountainous terrain and unique features like peat bogs and dramatic rock formations such as the Roches d'Olima.

Yes, Épinal is very suitable for family hikes. Many easy trails are available, particularly along the riverbanks, in the Arboretum de la Voivre, or in the Mont Carmel wooded park. The Le Haut-du-Tôt and its Waterfall Loop is a moderate option that can be enjoyed by families looking for a scenic walk with a waterfall reward.

Absolutely! The region is known for its picturesque waterfalls. A popular choice is the Tendon waterfalls - loop from Tendon, which features both the Great Tendon Waterfall and the Little Waterfall of Tendon. Another option is the Le Haut-du-Tôt and its Waterfall Loop.

Yes, many of the trails around Épinal are designed as circular routes, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Tendon waterfalls - loop from Tendon, the Roche du Lac Circuit, and the Lac de Lispach and Rouge Feigne — loop from La Bresse.

Hikers can discover several natural landmarks. Beyond the Tendon waterfalls, you can explore beautiful lakes such as Lake Lispach and Lac de Bouzey. The wider Vosges Massif offers impressive peaks like Hohneck with panoramic views, and the dramatic Wormspel Combe. The Roches d'Olima are also stunning 20-meter high rock formations worth seeing.

The hiking experience in Épinal is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 12,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the extensive, well-preserved forests, the scenic river and canal paths, and the variety of trails that cater to all fitness levels. The presence of beautiful lakes and waterfalls is also a common highlight.

Yes, many trails offer excellent viewpoints. The La Hazelle and the Balconies of Mettey Trail provides scenic vistas. For more expansive panoramas, consider routes in the accessible Vosges Massif, such as the Wormspel Pass – Impressive cliffs loop from Hohneck, which offers views over Lac de Schiessrothried, or the View of the Valley – View of Lac de la Lande loop.

Épinal offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while summer provides cool, shady paths through the dense forests, perfect for escaping the heat. Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors, and even winter hiking is possible, especially on lower elevation trails, offering a serene, snow-dusted experience.

For those seeking longer or more challenging routes, Épinal and the surrounding Vosges Massif have plenty to offer. Trails like the Between Ridges and Lakes Trail (8.8 km) or the Gaby Claudel Trail (12.7 km) provide significant elevation gain and varied terrain. The Lac de Blanchemer, Rainkopf and Rothenbachkopf — loop from La Bresse is another excellent moderate option at over 10 km.

While many trailheads are accessible by car, some areas around Épinal can be reached by local public transport, particularly those closer to the city center or in larger towns within the Vosges. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to trail starting points, especially for trails further into the Vosges Massif.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails around Épinal, especially in the extensive forest areas. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, particularly in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check specific regulations for any protected areas you plan to visit. Always ensure to clean up after your pet.