The best MTB trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin
4.4
(602)
3,118
riders
236
rides
Mountain biking around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Isère department in France's Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park, featuring mountains, dense forests, and limestone cliffs. Riders can expect varied terrains, from challenging ascents to flowing descents, within this natural setting. The region also includes notable features like the Gorges du Crossey and views towards Lac de Paladru.
Best mountain bike trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin
- The most popular mountain…
Last updated: October 4, 2026
4.4
(5)
25
riders
45.0km
04:12
1,100m
1,100m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
34.2km
03:11
910m
910m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.5
(2)
12
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
9
riders
24.7km
01:58
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Tips from the Community
The pond and the La Cressonnière site in Rives (Isère) form a preserved natural space, ideal for relaxation, walking, and fishing along the Fure river. A body of water surrounded by lush vegetation, included in an area popular with locals (Fure valley and La Cressonnière ponds). The Fure valley trail offers shaded and easy walks, allowing you to discover local heritage, ponds (like the La Cressonnière pond), and curiosities such as the Pont du Bœuf viaduct in Rives. A cressonnière is typically a running water basin where watercress is cultivated. It refers not only to the aménagés basins but also to natural basins where several species of watercress grow.
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The Fure is a 25-kilometer-long river that rises in the Lac de Paladru and flows into the Morge (a sub-tributary of the Isère). It crosses several communes in the Pays Voironnais, notably Charavines and Rives, before joining the Morge. Unlike mountain torrents, its flow is relatively regular thanks to the lake's supply, although it has historically experienced significant floods. The Fure valley trail offers shaded and easy walks, allowing you to discover local heritage, ponds (such as the Étang de la Cressonnière), and curiosities like the Pont du Bœuf viaduct in Rives.
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Very nice park with several facilities for various activities
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What is this castle...a photo and/or description would be good, right? Sportingly
0
0
Very pleasant pass to climb, not too steep a slope, well marked all the way.
3
1
End of the climb and arrival on the plateau
0
1
Arriving from Cessieu, I made a small detour via Voissant then the remaining 4 km to the Col des Mille Martyrs. Easy climb, no cars on this early Sunday afternoon and a very beautiful forest upon arrival. Bucolic viewpoints as a bonus during the climb. The descent to Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine is perfect. Super rolling surface and moderate slope allow you to reach 50 km/h effortlessly. Paradise exists, it is in Chartreuse.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level of mountain bike trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin?
The mountain bike trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin offer a wide range of difficulties. While there are 22 easy routes and 51 moderate routes, the majority, about 152 out of 225, are classified as difficult. This means riders can find options from gentle rides through the countryside to challenging ascents and technical descents within the Chartreuse Massif.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in the area?
Yes, while many trails are challenging, there are 22 easy mountain bike routes available around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin. These routes often traverse through forests and rural hamlets, providing shaded areas and less strenuous terrain suitable for families or beginners. The region's diverse landscape ensures options for various skill levels.
What natural features can I expect to see while mountain biking near Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin?
Mountain biking in this region offers stunning natural scenery. You'll encounter dense forests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and views of nearby lakes. The area is a gateway to the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park, known for its mountains and deep gorges like the Gorges du Crossey. You might also catch glimpses of Lac de Paladru.
Are there any viewpoints along the mountain bike trails?
Yes, the region boasts several scenic viewpoints. The "Croix des Cochettes" offers wonderful views around Lac de Paladru, providing a rewarding stop during your ride. Another notable spot is the Roche Brune Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Can I find mountain bike trails that are circular routes?
Many of the mountain bike trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Croix Saint-Joseph loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Crossey is a 24.2 km ride. Another popular option is the difficult Lake Saint-Sixte – Thousand Martyrs Pass loop from Voiron, which covers 34.2 km with significant elevation gain.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin?
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, where Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin is located, is well-suited for outdoor activities in summer. The forests and lush greenery provide shaded areas, making it pleasant for mountain biking. While winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing in the broader Chartreuse area, the best conditions for mountain biking are typically from spring through autumn when trails are clear of snow and ice.
Are there any waterfalls or other unique natural monuments to see?
Yes, the area features some impressive natural monuments. You can visit the Gorges du Crossey, known for their natural beauty. Additionally, the Pisserotte Waterfall is another natural highlight worth exploring in the vicinity.
How long do mountain bike trails typically take to complete?
Trail durations vary significantly based on difficulty and distance. For instance, the Croix Saint-Joseph loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Crossey, a difficult 24.2 km route, typically takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes like the Lake Saint-Sixte loop from Communauté d'agglomération du Pays Voironnais, at 38.3 km, can take around 3 hours 25 minutes.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin?
The mountain bike trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 2,700 mountain bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to limestone cliffs, and the range of options for different skill levels.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest near the mountain biking routes?
Beyond natural features, the region offers historical and scenic points. While mountain biking, you might pass by areas with views of historical sites like the Château de Hautefort (though not open to visitors). The Dolmen de l'Antillière is another interesting historical site in the vicinity.
Where can I find parking for mountain biking trails in Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin?
While specific parking locations for each trailhead are not detailed here, Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin and its surrounding communes, being a base for outdoor activities, typically offer public parking areas. It's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes on komoot for more precise parking information, especially in villages like Saint-Étienne-de-Crossey or Voiron, which serve as common starting points for many trails.
Are there options for electrically assisted mountain biking (EAB) in the Chartreuse area?
Yes, the Chartreuse Massif, which is easily accessible from Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin, is well-suited for Electrically Assisted Mountain Biking (EAB). This option allows riders to explore the mountainous terrain and enjoy the breathtaking scenery with a bit of extra assistance, making more challenging routes accessible to a wider range of riders.
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