4.3
(665)
3,328
riders
166
rides
Mountain bike trails around Bonlieu are set within the Jura department of France, a region characterized by its "Pays des Lacs" designation, shaped by ancient glaciers. The terrain offers a diverse landscape for mountain biking, featuring numerous lakes, dense forests, and varied elevations. Riders can expect a mix of lakeside paths, forest trails, and ascents through areas with cliffs and wooded sections. This topography provides a range of challenges and scenic backdrops for mountain biking.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.5
(35)
211
riders
35.4km
02:51
520m
520m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(5)
30
riders
53.5km
03:51
900m
900m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.7
(9)
60
riders
43.3km
03:03
640m
640m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.2
(5)
14
riders
36.4km
03:05
640m
640m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.2
(9)
21
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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An imposing lake, of a remarkable blue!
0
0
Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
0
Good shoes recommended; it's a climb
0
0
Beautiful tourist site in the region
0
0
Easy path to walk in the shade, very welcome in case of strong heat.
0
0
There are over 160 mountain bike trails around Bonlieu, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 3000 times.
Bonlieu, located in the Jura's 'Pays des Lacs' region, offers diverse terrain shaped by ancient glaciers. You can expect a mix of lakeside paths, dense forest trails, and varied elevations, including ascents through areas with cliffs and wooded sections. The region's 'medium mountains' terrain, with elevations from 620 to 1023 meters, ensures engaging rides.
The mountain bike routes in Bonlieu are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 650 reviews. Riders often praise the stunning natural beauty, varied terrain, and the scenic routes around the glacial lakes and through the forests.
Yes, Bonlieu offers a good selection of trails suitable for beginners. There are 31 easy mountain bike routes available. An accessible option is the Shore of Lac de Narlay – Grand Maclu Lake loop from La Chaux-du-Dombief, which is 10.7 miles (17.2 km) long and provides a scenic ride through the lake district.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Bonlieu has 44 difficult mountain bike trails. A notable difficult route is the Grand Maclu Lake – Shore of Lac de Narlay loop from Bonlieu, which spans 22.1 miles (35.5 km) with significant elevation changes, offering challenging terrain around two major lakes.
Absolutely. The Bonlieu region is famous for its waterfalls. You can find routes that take you near the dramatic Hérisson Waterfalls, which feature 31 cascades, or the Fan Waterfall. Lake Bonlieu itself is one of the sources of the Hérisson river.
Yes, many mountain bike trails in Bonlieu provide stunning views of the region's glacial lakes. The area is known as the 'Pays des Lacs' (lakes region). You can ride around Lake Narlay, Petit Maclu Lake, and Lake Ilay, enjoying picturesque backdrops. The Chalain Lake Viewpoint – View of Lac de Chalain loop from Bonlieu offers great vistas of Lac de Chalain.
Beyond the numerous lakes and waterfalls, you can explore other natural landmarks. The Three Lakes Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas. The region also features diverse landscapes including undergrowth, wet meadows, and peat bogs, especially around Lake Bonlieu.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, the 31 easy routes in Bonlieu are generally suitable for families with some biking experience. These often feature less challenging terrain around the lakes and through forests, providing a pleasant outdoor activity for all.
Many trails in Bonlieu are suitable for mountain biking with dogs, especially those through forested areas and around the lakes. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected natural areas or when encountering wildlife. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
The best time for mountain biking in Bonlieu is typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer offers warm days for lakeside rides, and autumn showcases stunning foliage. Winter can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Yes, many mountain bike routes in Bonlieu are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lakeside Picnic Area – Depart loop from La Chaux-du-Dombief, a 32.1 miles (51.7 km) route, and the Shore of Lac de Narlay – Grand Maclu Lake loop from Bonlieu.
Parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails, especially near the major lakes and villages like Bonlieu and La Chaux-du-Dombief. Look for designated parking areas near trailheads or key attractions. Specific parking information is often detailed on individual komoot tour pages.


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