The best walks and hikes around La Chaux-du-Milieu
4.6
(3569)
25,641
hikers
352
hikes
Hiking around La Chaux-du-Milieu offers a network of trails through the Jura mountains, characterized by forested hills, open pastures, and unique natural features. The region's landscape includes varied terrain, from gentle valleys to moderate ascents, providing diverse hiking experiences. Trails often lead through dense woodlands and past significant natural landmarks. This area is known for its well-maintained paths suitable for exploring the Swiss countryside.
Best hiking trails around La Chaux-du-Milieu
- The most popular hiking route is Sentier des Bornes via Le Meix Musy — loop from Le Cerneux-Péquignot, a 6.1 miles (9.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 54 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the border region with France, marked by historical boundary stones.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Grand Sommartel Loop, a moderate 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This route offers views of the Sommartel area, winding through the characteristic Jura landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Grotte de l'Ours — loop from Les-Ponts-de-Martel, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail leading through forested areas and past the Bear Cave, often completed in about 1 hour 37 minutes.
- Hiking around La Chaux-du-Milieu is defined by forested hills, open pastures, and peat bog trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in La Chaux-du-Milieu are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 3,400 reviews. More than 25,000 hikers have used komoot to explore La Chaux-du-Milieu's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.2
(6)
17
hikers
9.88km
02:54
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
7.60km
02:15
220m
220m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Grand Sommartel loop from La Combe-Jeanneret, offering diverse terrain and scenic Jura Mountain views.
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5.0
(1)
2
hikers
5.39km
01:37
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.91km
02:27
290m
290m
Hike the moderate 4.9-mile Le Petit-Som-Martel loop, exploring the Bear Cave and enjoying panoramic views near Les Ponts-de-Martel.
14
hikers
8.81km
02:17
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If you're looking for a fun break from your run in the Swiss Jura, you can visit the Grotte de l'Ours, near Ponts-de-Martel. This is not a deep cave, but rather a large rock formation with several holes that you can explore. The cave is located in a beautiful little gorge, the Combe Poëta, and the path leading there is already an attraction in itself. You can admire the forest, streams and peat bogs all along the way.
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Le Petit-Som-Martel is a cozy restaurant located on a family farm with stunning views of the Alps. There you can enjoy a delicious meal of regional specialties, such as fondue, röstis or wood-fired beef. The restaurant also has a children's play area and is accessible by public transport.
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The Grand Sommartel is a summit of the Jura chain, with an altitude of 1,337 meters and a prominence of 211 meters. It is the highest point of the anticline which separates the towns of Ponts-de-Martel and Le Locle. From the summit, you benefit from a panoramic view of Val-de-Ruz and the Chasseral Regional Park. The summit is accessible by hiking trails from different directions.
2
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This family-run inn offers delicious regional dishes, homemade bread and pastries, as well as a dormitory for 16 people with showers and toilets. You can enjoy the view of the green meadows and the sunset from the terrace, or explore the surrounding trails that lead to the top of the Grand Sommartel, the Chalet de Roche-Claire or the Petite Joux restaurant.
2
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Friendly service and very good food in the restaurant Grand-Saummartel,
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This path flirts with the border between Switzerland and France. It offers magnificent views of both countries and alternates between open passages and shaded paths.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around La Chaux-du-Milieu?
La Chaux-du-Milieu offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 350 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate paths, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region has over 120 easy hiking trails. A great option for families or beginners is the Grotte de l'Ours — loop from Les-Ponts-de-Martel, which is 3.4 miles (5.4 km) long and takes about 1 hour 37 minutes to complete, leading through forested areas and past the Bear Cave.
What is the typical length and duration of hikes in La Chaux-du-Milieu?
Hikes in La Chaux-du-Milieu vary significantly. Many popular routes, like the Sentier des Bornes via Le Meix Musy, are around 6 miles (10 km) and take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Shorter options are available, as are longer, more demanding routes.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in La Chaux-du-Milieu?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Jura region, including around La Chaux-du-Milieu. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to clean up after them.
Are there circular walking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails around La Chaux-du-Milieu are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Grand Sommartel Loop is a popular moderate circular path offering scenic views.
What kind of natural attractions can I expect to see along the trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore fascinating geological features like the Bear Cave or the impressive Glacière de Monlési Ice Cave. There are also several beautiful waterfalls nearby, such as the Saut du Doubs Waterfall and the Areuse Gorge Waterfalls.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in La Chaux-du-Milieu?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse landscape of forested hills and open pastures, and the unique natural features like peat bogs and caves.
Are there any trails that feature historical or cultural points of interest?
Yes, the Sentier des Bornes via Le Meix Musy explores the border region with France, marked by historical boundary stones, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in La Chaux-du-Milieu?
The best time for hiking in La Chaux-du-Milieu is typically from spring to autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild and the trails are clear. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors. Some trails may also be suitable for winter hiking or snowshoeing, depending on snow conditions.
Are there any trails that pass by cafes or picnic spots?
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, many routes, such as the Peat bog trail – Picnic area loop from Les Ponts-de-Martel, are designed with picnic areas in mind. It's advisable to check the route details for amenities or pack your own provisions.
What is the terrain like on the hiking trails?
The terrain around La Chaux-du-Milieu is varied, characteristic of the Jura mountains. You'll encounter forested hills, open pastures, and unique peat bog trails. Paths range from gentle valleys to moderate ascents, offering a diverse hiking experience across well-maintained routes.
Most popular routes around La Chaux-du-Milieu
Most popular attractions around La Chaux-du-Milieu
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