The best waterfall hikes and walks around Lens
4.5
(3542)
22,148
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking around Lens, situated in the Pas-de-Calais department of Hauts-de-France, offers diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. While the region is known for its industrial heritage, the surrounding landscape features a network of rivers and reclaimed slag heaps that have become naturalized hills. These areas provide varied elevation and natural water features, creating opportunities for waterfall hiking trails. The terrain includes both open plains and forested sections, contributing to a range of hiking experiences.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Lens
- The…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(23)
135
hikers
11.2km
03:05
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
37
hikers
8.06km
02:10
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
13.0km
03:28
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.09km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This cemetery contains the remains of more than ten thousand soldiers who died during the First World War on the front lines in Artois and French-Belgian Flanders. This location is one of 139 cemeteries and memorials from the First World War on the Western Front that were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2023.
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The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. Built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, this church was badly damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
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A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
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The Nécropole nationale de Notre-Dame-de-Lorette is one of the largest and most impressive military cemeteries in France. Situated on a hill in Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, this cemetery contains the graves of more than 42,000 soldiers who died during the First World War. The cemetery was inaugurated in 1925 and includes a basilica, a tower-lantern and a museum.
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The Anneau de la Mémoire is an impressive monument commemorating the 576,606 soldiers of forty different nationalities who died in Nord-Pas-de-Calais during the First World War. The monument was designed by Philippe Prost and was unveiled on 11 November 2014, the 96th anniversary of Armistice Day. It consists of 500 metal panels, each approximately 3 metres high, arranged in an elliptical shape. The names of the soldiers are listed alphabetically, without distinction of rank or nationality.
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A superb monument commemorating the centenary of the Great War. It features nearly 500,000 names engraved in alphabetical order. Without distinction of rank, they come from soldiers of some forty different nationalities, all of whom fell on the front lines of Nord-Pas-de-Calais between 1914 and 1918.
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The church dedicated to the Mother of God under the title "Notre-Dame de Lorette" rises in brilliant white and is visible from far away. But the brilliant impression is deceptive, at the latest when the visitor to the site realizes that they are in a huge military cemetery. Around 20,000 individual graves and a further 23,000 victims of war and tyranny buried in ossuaries are deeply disturbing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available around Lens?
There are 8 dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Lens, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging routes. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes near Lens?
The terrain around Lens for waterfall hikes is quite diverse. You'll encounter a mix of reclaimed slag heaps, which are now vegetation-covered hills offering unique viewpoints, as well as forested sections and paths along river networks. This provides varied elevation and natural water features, creating a dynamic hiking experience.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families near Lens?
Yes, there are easy waterfall hikes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Souchez Waterfalls loop from Souchez is an easy 5.6 km path that takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a great option for a relaxed outing.
What is a popular moderate waterfall hike around Lens?
A popular moderate option is the Souchez Waterfalls loop from Souchez. This 8.1 km trail leads through areas with water features and typically takes around 2 hours 10 minutes to complete, offering a good balance of distance and scenic beauty.
Are the waterfall hiking trails around Lens dog-friendly?
Many natural areas in the Hauts-de-France region are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. While specific restrictions for each waterfall trail are not always listed, it's usually safe to assume well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome. Always check local signage for any specific rules or protected areas.
Where can I find parking for waterfall hikes near Souchez?
Many waterfall hikes, such as those starting from Souchez, typically have parking available near the trailheads or in the village itself. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking suggestions or look for public parking areas in Souchez before your visit.
What can I see along the waterfall hiking trails besides waterfalls?
Beyond the waterfalls, you can explore various natural and historical features. The region is known for its unique reclaimed slag heaps, which offer panoramic views. You might also encounter highlights such as the Marsh Pond or the Marais de la Galance, which are part of the diverse ecosystems in the area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the waterfall trails in Lens?
The waterfall trails around Lens are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful natural settings, and the unique combination of industrial heritage reclaimed by nature, particularly the distinctive slag heaps and the refreshing water features.
Are there any longer waterfall hiking options for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Heather Wood – Souchez Waterfalls loop from Éleu-dit-Leauwette is a great choice. This moderate 15.2 km trail takes you through Heather Wood and past the Souchez Waterfalls, typically requiring about 4 hours 5 minutes to complete.
Is public transport an option to reach the waterfall hiking areas near Lens?
Lens itself is well-connected by public transport. To reach specific trailheads like those in Souchez, you would likely need to use local bus services from Lens. It's recommended to check regional transport schedules in advance, as services to smaller villages might be less frequent.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfall hikes around Lens?
The best time to visit the waterfall hikes around Lens is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and fuller waterfalls from snowmelt, while summer and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking. Winter can also be beautiful, but trails might be muddy or icy, and water flow can vary.
Are there any unique natural formations to see on these trails?
Yes, one notable natural formation is featured on the Mont de Justice – Small natural arch loop from Souchez. This 11.2 km moderate trail includes a natural arch, adding an interesting geological highlight to your hike alongside the water features.
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