The best walks and hikes around Plancher-Bas
4.4
(1190)
7,927
hikers
327
hikes
Hiking around Plancher-Bas offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Southern Vosges and the Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges. The area features lush woods, providing shaded paths and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Hikers can expect varied terrains, including mountain passes and numerous small lakes and ponds, ensuring a diverse outdoor experience.
Best hiking trails around Plancher-Bas
- The most popular hiking route is Bassin de Champagney — loop in the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.1
(12)
65
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
12
hikers
6.14km
01:40
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(9)
70
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
16
hikers
10.6km
03:58
690m
690m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
23
hikers
11.4km
03:26
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Plancher-Bas
Tips from the Community
The path is partly swampy but completely passable.
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The Plancher-Bas church is characterized by its neo-Gothic architecture. It is distinguished by its ornate facade and colorful stained glass windows. Built in the 19th century, it is a central point of the village. Its well-preserved interior offers an overview of the religious art of the period.
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On the Chemin de la Combe, you walk on a very rolling forest track, without technical difficulty, among pine trees and shrubs.
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This is where the climb to the Planche des belles filles begins - to the left we continue towards Ballon de Servance and to the right we go straight up the mountain to the beautiful dead end at the summit.
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The Champagney basin (also known as the Bois de Champagney reservoir1) is a 13 million m3 reservoir, formed by a dam. The dam is 41 meters high and 32 meters thick at the base. It has a length of 785 meters. We fill the dam in winter and spring (it can serve as an outlet for the floods of the Rahin), and we try to maintain the level at the highest level during the summer, for water sports: the practice of sailing, board or boat is organized by local clubs. Swimming is prohibited on the entire body of water.
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The Champagney basin is ideal for running and the dam which borders it to the south is a great spectacle.
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The Champagney basin is ideal for walking and the dam which borders it to the south is a great spectacle.
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Take advantage of this shelter, semi-open, ideally placed. It is equipped with a bench and an outdoor fireplace. You can picnic there protected from the wind and rain. Superb panorama as a bonus.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Plancher-Bas?
There are over 330 hiking routes around Plancher-Bas. These include a wide range of options, with more than 100 easy trails, nearly 200 moderate routes, and around 25 more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Plancher-Bas?
Hiking around Plancher-Bas offers diverse landscapes, from lush woods providing shaded paths to mountainous terrain within the Southern Vosges and the Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges. You'll encounter scenic 'cols de montagne' (mountain passes), numerous small lakes and ponds, and picturesque viewpoints.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Plancher-Bas offers many easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Bassin de Champagney — loop in the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges is a 6.7 km trail that takes about 1 hour 47 minutes. Another great option is La Redoute, an easy 6.1 km path through local woodlands.
Can I find challenging hikes with significant elevation gain in the area?
While many routes are easy to moderate, the region, being part of the Southern Vosges, does offer more challenging ascents. For instance, the area around the renowned Planche des Belles Filles, accessible from Plancher-Bas, provides demanding trails with significant elevation gains and rewarding panoramic vistas.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Plancher-Bas?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the View of the Lake and Dam – Bassin de Champagney loop from Champagney, a 6.6 km trail offering varied terrain and lake views.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
The region is rich in natural attractions. You can explore highlights like the Ballon d'Alsace, a significant mountain pass, or discover the serene Rummel Waterfalls. The Waterfall - Saut de l'Ognon is another beautiful natural monument worth visiting.
Are the hiking trails around Plancher-Bas dog-friendly?
Generally, the natural trails and woodlands around Plancher-Bas are welcoming for dogs, especially within the Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations if available.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Plancher-Bas?
The hiking routes in Plancher-Bas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the tranquility of the woodlands, and the beautiful viewpoints found along the paths.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Plancher-Bas?
The region offers pleasant hiking conditions through much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer is also popular, with shaded forest paths offering respite from the heat. Winter hiking is possible, though conditions can vary, especially at higher elevations.
Are there good viewpoints along the hiking trails in Plancher-Bas?
Yes, many trails around Plancher-Bas are noted for offering 'jolis points de vues' (pretty viewpoints). The mountainous character of the Southern Vosges and the presence of mountain passes ensure numerous opportunities for panoramic vistas across the diverse landscapes.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking?
The lush woods and varied environments of the Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges provide habitats for diverse flora and fauna. While hiking, you might observe various bird species, small mammals, and a rich array of plant life, especially in the quieter forest sections.
Are there any hikes that feature water bodies like lakes or ponds?
Absolutely. Plancher-Bas is situated on the 'Route of the 1000 Ponds' and within the Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges, which is known for its numerous small lakes and ponds. Trails like the Bassin de Champagney — loop offer scenic views of these water bodies.
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