4.5
(762)
6,233
hikers
170
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Forêt De La Menère are characterized by a peaceful forest environment with diverse deciduous trees, offering scenic beauty throughout the seasons. The terrain primarily consists of gentle paths and moderate elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels. This area near Besançon, France, provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities, distinct from more crowded regions. The forest's landscape is defined by its woodlands, with routes often incorporating historical points of interest like Château Galland.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
7
hikers
22.3km
06:06
340m
340m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
22
hikers
8.80km
02:16
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
33
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(29)
111
hikers
4.42km
01:23
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
hikers
21.8km
06:07
420m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Great for a stop to have a beer on a terrace
0
0
Lock in the connecting canal to the ship tunnel, approx. 3-4 m high.
2
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A ship tunnel (1810) that can be walked through from the side as a shortcut for the Le Doubs river canal. On the other side of the canal there is a lock about 3-4 m high. There is a water curtain at both portals and the interior is beautifully and decoratively lit. Worth seeing.
2
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It is also possible to walk through the tunnel.
5
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Rocher de Valmy, Tower of Montferrand
2
0
Forêt De La Menère offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. There are nearly 170 hiking trails in total, with over 60 specifically categorized as easy, making them ideal for outings with children.
The trails in Forêt De La Menère are generally characterized by peaceful forest environments with varied deciduous trees. While paths are mostly gentle, some sections can become muddy during wet weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The region research indicates a tranquil escape with diverse woodland.
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Forêt De La Menère are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the easy-rated Monument and church in Thoraise loop from Thoraise is a great option at 4.4 km, perfect for a family walk.
While the forest is cherished for its serene atmosphere, the nearby Château Galland, a historic manor dating back to approximately 1860, is a notable point of interest. Some hiking loops, like the 'Château Galland boucle' mentioned in the region research, integrate such historical sites into the experience.
Many of the easy-rated trails in Forêt De La Menère feature gentle paths and manageable distances, making them suitable for families with toddlers. For stroller-friendly options, look for routes described as very flat and wide, though specific stroller accessibility can vary by trail. The region research highlights 'easy family outings' and 'gentle elevation changes' on paths like the 'Bambouseraie boucle'.
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Forêt De La Menère, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas where wildlife might be present or near other hikers. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the forest for everyone.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 740 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful forest environment, the well-marked paths, and the opportunity for a tranquil escape from more crowded areas, making it ideal for family outings.
Yes, for families with slightly older children or those looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are many moderate routes. Consider the Schleuse – Thoraise Tunnel loop from Montferrand - Thoraise, which is 8.8 km long and offers a pleasant experience without being overly strenuous.
Forêt De La Menère is beautiful year-round, with its deciduous trees offering picturesque scenery that shifts with the seasons. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for hiking, with mild temperatures and vibrant colors. However, be aware that paths can be muddy during wet periods.
For families seeking a longer adventure, the The double lock on the Doubs – The Canal Grocery loop from Avanne-Aveney is a moderate 9.4 km route that provides a good distance for a full day out, allowing for breaks and exploration along the way.
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, the region is generally accessible. It's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes on komoot for information on nearby parking facilities to ensure a smooth start to your family hike.


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