4.5
(56519)
288,222
hikers
6,040
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Ballons Des Vosges traverse a landscape characterized by rounded mountain peaks, vast woodland-covered slopes, and numerous lakes and rivers. The region features distinctive "ballons" or ancient peaks, alongside high-altitude pastures and dense forests of oak, beech, and pine. Significant natural features include the Valley of Lakes, with Lake Longemer and Lake Gerardmer, and the unique wetland landscape of the Mille Étangs plateau.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.4
(93)
319
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(346)
2,541
hikers
5.35km
01:24
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(248)
1,431
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(12)
66
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.7
(6)
16
hikers
4.59km
01:19
100m
100m
Hike an easy 2.9-mile loop to the iconic Notre-Dame-du-Haut Chapel in the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges.
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Hiking from the balloon over the mountain ridge through the High Vosges promises wonderful solitude and panoramic views.
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Stop every now and then to enjoy!
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The first mention of Wildenstein Castle dates back to the early 14th century. The stronghold then belonged to Count Ulrich III of Ferrette. Its function was to control the upper Thur Valley, as well as the road to the Bussang Pass. It was during the Thirty Years' War that Wildenstein Castle achieved its greatest military importance. It was successively captured and recaptured by the various belligerents, and was destroyed at the end of the war in 1646 by the French, allies of the Swedes.
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Hier oben kann man Vespern, Tische sind vorhanden. Toller Platz auch für Kinder um sich auszutoben. Leider wird zur Zeit ausgebessert, was auf der eine Seite gut ist, auf der anderen Seite das Naturbild stört
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Beautiful entrance to the castle. Caution in wet conditions – danger of slipping
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Here, you still walk on the original surface from back then. You can still see the cross grooves that were cut to prevent the horses from slipping.
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There are over 2,100 easy hiking trails in Ballons Des Vosges. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including rounded mountain peaks, dense forests, and numerous lakes, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels.
The easy trails in Ballons Des Vosges are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 51,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's beautiful natural scenery, well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of its forests and lakes.
Yes, many easy trails in Ballons Des Vosges are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Ballon d'Alsace — loop in the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges is a popular 6.5 km (4.0 miles) loop offering scenic views within the regional park.
Many easy trails are family-friendly. The Lake Longemer – Lake Longemer loop from Xonrupt-Longemer is a gentle 5.4 km (3.3 miles) path along the lake shore, perfect for a leisurely family outing. The region's diverse landscapes, including lakes and forests, provide engaging environments for children to explore.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in Ballons Des Vosges, provided they are kept on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas or near livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions. The varied terrain, from forest paths to lake shores, offers plenty of opportunities for you and your dog to enjoy.
Yes, you can find easy trails that incorporate historical elements. The Wildenstein Castle Ruins – Entrance to the Château loop from Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein is a 6.5 km (4.0 miles) trail that leads through varied terrain, including views of the castle ruins. The region also features other notable castles like Saint-Ulrich Castle and Girsberg Castle, which can be explored in conjunction with nearby easy routes.
Easy hikes in Ballons Des Vosges offer access to a variety of natural attractions. You can explore the serene shores of lakes like Longemer and Gerardmer, wander through vast forests of oak, beech, and pine, or discover unique wetland landscapes such as the Mille Étangs plateau. Some trails also offer glimpses into the region's geological formations and diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, there are many short and easy walks available. The Bourlémont Hill Loop is a good example, covering approximately 4.6 km (2.8 miles) and taking around 1 hour 19 minutes to complete. These shorter routes are ideal for a quick stroll or for those with limited time.
While many trailheads are best reached by car, some areas within the Ballons Des Vosges Regional Nature Park are accessible via public transport, particularly in larger towns or villages. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for specific routes and starting points before planning your hike.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and near key attractions throughout Ballons Des Vosges. For routes around lakes like Longemer or near villages, designated parking areas are often provided. For specific routes, komoot tour pages often include information on nearby parking options.
The Ballons Des Vosges is a year-round destination. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while summer offers pleasant temperatures for hiking around lakes and through shaded forests. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. Even in winter, some easy trails are accessible for hiking, though snowshoeing or cross-country skiing might be more suitable for higher elevations.
Yes, even easy trails in Ballons Des Vosges can offer rewarding viewpoints. The region's characteristic 'ballons' or rounded mountain peaks provide panoramic vistas. While the highest peaks might require more challenging routes, many easy trails wind through areas that offer scenic overlooks of the valleys, forests, and lakes below.


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