The best city hikes and walks in Forêt De L'Hautil
4.4
(886)
5,607
hikers
7
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Forêt De L'Hautil traverse a varied landscape situated on a rocky spur overlooking the confluence of the Seine and Oise rivers. The forest features diverse ecosystems, primarily composed of chestnut and oak trees, alongside natural springs and wetlands. With an elevation reaching 191 meters, the area offers panoramic views over the valleys and plains. The terrain includes both gentle paths and routes with notable elevation changes, providing a range of experiences for hikers.
Best urban hiking trails in Forêt De L'Hautil
- The most popular urban hiking route is The 12 Columns loop from Cergy, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This easy route features a moderate elevation gain of 86 meters.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Pontoise – Pontoise Castle loop from Cergy Préfecture, a moderate 6.3 miles (10.1 km) path. This route includes a 77-meter ascent and offers views of historical sites.
- Local hikers also love the Old Poissy Bridge – Cathedral loop from Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail leading through urban and riverside landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 6 minutes.
- Hiking in Forêt De L'Hautil is defined by diverse forest ecosystems, elevated terrain with panoramic viewpoints, and historical features. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Forêt De L'Hautil are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 800 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Forêt De L'Hautil's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
2
hikers
4.79km
01:20
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.21km
01:05
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
2
hikers
6.59km
01:43
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
9.35km
02:27
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
7.88km
02:07
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame de Poissy!!
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breathtaking view of La Défense and Paris.
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Here is the Cathedral of Saint Maclou of Pontoise.
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Pretty rural location with access to the banks of the Oise, near the old ferry pier for Ham and the ferryman's house.
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A superb view of the Cergy leisure center and of Paris
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Superb composite monument combining both the primitive Gothic of the 12th century and the exuberance of Flamboyant Gothic with the Renaissance and Baroque styles. Saint-Maclou Cathedral bears witness to a strong history through its architecture but also through the many artistic masterpieces it contains.
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Nice view, it's going to hit the climb
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Nice gravel portion following the Seine
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Forêt De L'Hautil?
There are 7 urban hiking trails documented in Forêt De L'Hautil, offering a variety of experiences for exploring the area on foot.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes in Forêt De L'Hautil?
Urban hikes in Forêt De L'Hautil offer a mix of terrain, from relatively flat paths to areas with notable elevation changes. The forest is situated on a rocky spur, providing some challenging ascents and descents, particularly around areas like Hautil via Maurecourt, which lead to expansive views. You'll find trails winding through diverse forest ecosystems of chestnut and oak, as well as near wetlands and ponds.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Forêt De L'Hautil offers several easy urban hikes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the The 12 Columns loop from Cergy is an easy route covering just under 5 km. Another accessible option is the Hiking loop from Cergy Préfecture, which is also rated as easy.
What are the best viewpoints along the urban hiking trails?
Forêt De L'Hautil is known for its panoramic views over the Seine and Oise valleys. Popular spots include the Hautil via Maurecourt and the scenic Descent of the Hautil - view in the distance. These elevated points, some reaching 191 meters, offer glimpses of the surrounding plains and even distant views of Paris.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in Forêt De L'Hautil?
Yes, many of the urban hiking routes in Forêt De L'Hautil are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the The 12 Columns loop from Cergy, the Old Poissy Bridge – Cathedral loop from Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and the Hiking loop from Cergy Préfecture.
What interesting places can I explore along the urban trails?
Along the urban trails, you can discover various points of interest. The Pontoise – Pontoise Castle loop from Cergy Préfecture takes you near historical sites. You might also encounter the tranquil Hautil Pond, known for its water lilies, or the Orangery Garden of the Château de Menucourt.
Is Forêt De L'Hautil suitable for dog-friendly urban hikes?
Forêt De L'Hautil is generally welcoming for dogs, making it a great place for dog-friendly urban hikes. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially during hunting season (September to March), and to be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Forêt De L'Hautil?
Forêt De L'Hautil offers a beautiful landscape throughout the year. Spring and summer bring lush greenery, while autumn transforms the forest with vibrant foliage, making it particularly scenic. Winter hikes can also be rewarding, offering a different, serene atmosphere. Be aware that hunting activities occur from September to March, so vigilance is advised during these months.
How can I access the urban hiking trails in Forêt De L'Hautil by public transport?
Many urban hiking trails in Forêt De L'Hautil are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting from towns like Cergy Préfecture or Saint-Ouen-l'Aumône. These areas are well-served by regional train lines (RER) and local buses, making it convenient to reach the trailheads without a car.
What do other hikers say about urban trails in Forêt De L'Hautil?
The urban trails in Forêt De L'Hautil are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the peaceful forest atmosphere, and the rewarding panoramic views over the valleys. Many appreciate the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Are there any longer, more challenging urban hikes in the area?
Yes, if you're looking for a longer and moderately challenging urban hike, consider the Pontoise – Pontoise Castle loop from Cergy Préfecture, which spans over 10 km. Another moderate option is the Pontoise cliff – Pontoise loop from Saint-Ouen-l'Aumône, offering varied terrain and scenic views.
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