4.4
(293)
2,561
hikers
193
hikes
Hiking around Réservoir De Bouzey offers diverse trails centered around an artificial lake built in 1882. The region is characterized by serene lakeside paths and is enveloped by lush forests, providing shaded routes and a verdant backdrop. While many trails are relatively flat and easily accessible, the surrounding area also features routes with moderate elevation changes, catering to various fitness levels. The reservoir is a biodiversity hotspot, allowing for wildlife observation during hikes.
Last updated: October 12, 2026
4.4
(7)
23
hikers
18.4km
04:58
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
24
hikers
5.82km
01:35
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

3.0
(1)
7
hikers
15.2km
04:09
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
hikers
6.43km
01:41
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.02km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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large reservoir that feeds both arms of the Vosges Canal on the watershed
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The Lac de Bouzey (Bouzeysee) is located about 10 km west of Épinal in the Vosges (France). It is an artificial lake with an area of around 1.3 km². Originally, it was built in 1882 as a water reservoir for the Canal des Vosges. For visitors, the lake is a popular excursion destination: Circular path around the lake: approx. 7 km (1½–2 hours), largely flat. In summer, there are bathing beaches, pedal boat and sailing opportunities. Beautiful picnic spots and several restaurants directly on the water. Cycling, fishing, and bird watching are also very popular. A historical note: in 1895, the original dam broke, causing a severe catastrophe with many fatalities. A monument at the lake commemorates this today. The Bouzeysee is particularly suitable for a relaxed half-day trip or as an intermediate stop on a journey through the Vosges.
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Opposite the playground - swimming forbidden
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The fort is located on private property which may not be entered. Most of the loop consists of wide, unspectacular gravel paths. The section that passes by the spring is beautiful.
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The Poudrière d'Olima (Olima Powder Warehouse) is a historical remnant from 20th-century conflicts, located in the Olima Forest near Chantraine and Épinal in the Vosges Mountains, France.
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The water from the lake helps control the level of the Canal des Vosges in the region. It is possible to swim there from the American beach on the north shore.
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Located near Lake Bouzey.
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The terrain around Réservoir De Bouzey is quite varied. You'll find many easily accessible and relatively flat paths, especially the popular 7 km loop around the lake. However, the surrounding area also offers routes with slight to moderate elevation changes, such as the Avière Spring loop from Sanchey, which features 243 meters of elevation gain. Most trails are enveloped by lush forests, providing shaded paths and a verdant backdrop, alongside serene lakeside views.
Yes, Réservoir De Bouzey is an excellent destination for families. The 7 km loop around the lake is particularly popular and suitable for all fitness levels, including children, offering a relaxing walk with consistent lake views. Shorter variations like the Bouzey loop from Vosges (3.76 km) are also available, making it easy to find a suitable path for a family outing.
Yes, Réservoir De Bouzey is generally dog-friendly. Many trails, especially those around the lake and through the surrounding forests, are suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of local regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal to help preserve the natural environment.
Réservoir De Bouzey is a biodiversity hotspot. While hiking, you might encounter various animal and plant species, including ducks, swans, frogs, muskrats, and a multitude of birds. A detour to the Comtesse pond, for example, allows visitors to admire water lilies and frogs inhabiting the peat bog. The serene lakeside environment and surrounding forests offer ample opportunities for nature observation.
Yes, circular routes are a highlight of hiking around Réservoir De Bouzey. The most well-known is the approximately 7 km loop directly around the lake, which can be started from various points. Other popular circular options include the Lake Bouzey – Bouzey loop from Vosges (5.7 km) and the slightly longer Bouzey – Olima Rocks loop from Vosges (7.2 km).
Réservoir De Bouzey offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flora or vibrant fall colors. Summer is also popular, especially with the option of swimming at lifeguarded beaches, though paths can be busier. The surrounding forests offer shaded routes, making summer hikes enjoyable even on warmer days.
While the primary focus is nature, you can combine your nature walk with cultural stops. For instance, if you're exploring the area by bike or on foot from the dam, you might pass by the Chaumousey Abbey. The region also has connections to the Canal des Vosges, which the reservoir was built to feed.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 350 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene lakeside paths, the lush forest trails, and the variety of routes that cater to both easy, relaxing walks and more moderate excursions. The consistent lake views and the sense of immersion in nature are frequently highlighted.
There are over 15 hiking trails available around Réservoir De Bouzey, offering a diverse range of distances and difficulty levels. These include easy lakeside loops and more moderate forest excursions, ensuring options for various preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, routes like the Avière Spring loop from Sanchey stand out. This trail covers 15.2 km with 243 meters of elevation gain, typically taking about 4 hours 10 minutes to complete. While many trails are relatively flat, this route provides a good option for more experienced hikers.
Yes, parking is generally available at various points around Réservoir De Bouzey, particularly near popular starting points for the lake loops and other trails. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local tourism information websites.
Réservoir De Bouzey is a multi-activity destination. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy cycling, pedal boating, and sailing on the lake. During the summer, there are lifeguarded beaches for swimming. Horseback riding is also an option, and you might even observe horses bathing in the lake.


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