The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Forêt Domaniale De Celles
4.5
(1819)
9,739
hikers
124
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Forêt Domaniale De Celles are situated within the Vosges mountains, characterized by extensive fir forests, serene lakes, and notable rock formations. The region's diverse topography includes the large artificial Lac de Pierre-Percée and several other lakes, offering waterside paths. Elevations range from gentle lake loops to higher points like Tête du Coquin at 709 meters, providing varied terrain for family outings. The area features a comprehensive network of well-maintained trails suitable for different activity levels.
…Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.7
(26)
153
hikers
8.58km
02:30
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
72
hikers
3.28km
00:51
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
11.2km
03:23
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(27)
144
hikers
8.72km
02:33
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(31)
155
hikers
9.62km
02:49
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Situated in the heart of the Vosges, this dam, together with Lac de la Plaine, forms an important water reservoir. The dam was built to feed Lac de Pierre-Percée via an underground system. The climb up to it is gradual and rewards you with a view of the peaceful Lac de la Plaine. The road along the lake is ideal for a breather, with little traffic and lots of nature. Perfect for a short break or a photo opportunity during your ride.
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Lac de la Plaine is a picturesque lake in the Vosges, located near Celles-sur-Plaine, near the larger Lac de Pierre-Percée. The lake is an artificial water reservoir of about 0.5 million m³ and serves as a supply basin for the reservoir above.
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This impressive dam, located in the Vosges, forms an artificial water reservoir together with the Lac de Pierre-Percée. The dam is 69 metres high and 330 metres long, built with a clay core and lined with volcanic rock. It plays an important role in water management and energy production via an underground water connection with the Lac de la Plaine. The surrounding area offers beautiful views and is ideal for hiking along rocky paths, forests and viewpoints over the lake.
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Pierre-Percée is a small mountain village in the east of the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, on the edge of the Vosges Mountains. With fewer than 100 inhabitants, it is one of the smallest communes in the region. Situated on the edge of the Plaine Valley, the village is built at the foot of the ruins of the medieval Château de Pierre-Percée, which once belonged to the Counts of Salm. The village's name refers to a 33-meter-deep well carved into the rock beneath the castle. During the Thirty Years' War, the village, like the castle, was largely destroyed. In the 20th century, Pierre-Percée regained significance with the construction of the EDF reservoir and the creation of a recreation area, which today attracts tourists for hiking, water sports, and nature experiences.
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This memorial commemorates the dead of the First World War as well as the citizens of Pierre-Percée who died in other wars.
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Near the Pierre-Percée lake, the Plaine lake is smaller, less known but just as charming. It also has the advantage of being bordered by a beautiful cycle path. Not the surface we prefer for mountain biking, but a great way to advance in the valley to access the many spots of the Vosges.
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This 304-hectare lake, with its 32 kilometers of shores located on the foothills of the Vosges, is the ideal place for hiking, swimming and enjoying various activities.
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Very beautiful overall views of the lake from the dam, especially in autumn. Beautiful view also of the rear of the dam with the Vosges in the background. The adjoining parking lot allows you to start the hike from this point as well. Under a large shelter next to it, information on large panels tells the history of the dam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Forêt Domaniale De Celles?
Forêt Domaniale De Celles offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families, with over 100 hiking trails in total. More than 40 of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in Forêt Domaniale De Celles?
The family-friendly trails in Forêt Domaniale De Celles generally feature gentle paths through vast forests, often alongside tranquil lakes. You'll find diverse landscapes, from serene woodlands to picturesque lake shores, with manageable elevation changes ideal for all ages. For example, the Lac de la Plaine – La Plaine Lake loop from Barrage de Vieux-Pré is mostly flat.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many family-friendly routes in Forêt Domaniale De Celles are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Vieux-Pré Dam – Lac de la Plaine loop from Barrage de Vieux-Pré, which offers beautiful lakeside scenery.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see along the trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore impressive rock formations like the Pain de Sucre Rock Formation or reach the Tête du Coquin Summit for panoramic views. Many trails also feature the beautiful lakes, such as Lac de la Plaine and Lac de Pierre-Percée, and the expansive fir forests themselves are a sight to behold.
Is Forêt Domaniale De Celles suitable for hiking with a stroller?
While many trails are gentle, specific stroller-friendly paths might be limited. However, the region offers the "Véloroute Voie verte de la Plaine," a 27 km non-motorized path that is generally flat and well-maintained, making it an excellent option for families with strollers. You can find sections of this greenway, such as the Greenway along the Plain of the Lake at Raon-l'Étape.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Forêt Domaniale De Celles, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other hikers. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the forest.
What is the best time of year to visit Forêt Domaniale De Celles for family hikes?
The Forêt Domaniale De Celles is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn offers stunning fall colors. Summer is ideal for combining hikes with waterside activities at the lakes. Even winter can be magical for walks, though some paths might be icy or snowy, requiring appropriate footwear.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the family hiking trails?
While specific cafes directly on every trail might be scarce, the communes and tourist spots connected by the "Véloroute Voie verte de la Plaine" and located near the lakes often have options for refreshments and meals. It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks, especially for longer hikes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Forêt Domaniale De Celles, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the picturesque lakes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings. The diverse scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently mentioned.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for a full day out?
Yes, if your family is up for a longer adventure, routes like the Fontaine Jacquot – Vierge de Vohne loop from Barrage de Vieux-Pré offer a more extended experience, allowing you to spend more time exploring the forest and its features. These routes are still manageable but provide a greater distance.
Where can we park when visiting the family-friendly trails?
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and near major attractions like the dams (e.g., Barrage de Vieux-Pré) and lake access points. Many routes, such as the Lac de la Plaine – Vieux-Pré Dam loop from Celles-sur-Plaine, start from easily accessible locations with parking facilities.
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