The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Auvergne Rhône Alpes

The Auvergne Rhône Alpes region offers a vast network of trails, with over 15,000 hiking routes in total. For families, there are more than 5,000 easy and over 8,000 moderate trails, ensuring a wide selection suitable for all ages and abilities.

Families can experience incredibly diverse terrain. You'll find gentle paths through verdant alpine pastures and lush forests, as well as trails exploring unique volcanic landscapes like the Chaîne des Puys. Some routes offer views of majestic alpine peaks, glacial valleys, and stunning gorges. The region's 13 natural parks provide varied environments, from the high mountains to serene lake shores.

Yes, the region boasts several beautiful waterfalls perfect for family exploration. For example, the Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls in the Chartreuse massif offer a dramatic natural spectacle. Other notable waterfalls include the Angon Waterfall and The Grande Cascade of Mont-Dore.

Absolutely. Many family-friendly trails in Auvergne Rhône Alpes are designed as circular routes, making them convenient for day trips. Examples include the Puy de Pariou Loop, which explores a volcanic crater, or The Pont d'Arc – loop in the nature reserve of the Ardèche gorges, offering stunning river views.

Yes, the region is rich in lakes of both volcanic and glacial origin. You can enjoy family hikes around picturesque spots like Lake Chambon, Lake Aydat, or Lac Pavin. The Guéry Plateau loop is a great option starting from a lake in the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park, and the Lac du Lauvitel loop offers stunning alpine lake scenery in the Écrins National Park.

The region is wonderful for hiking throughout the year, depending on the altitude and specific activity. Summer (June to September) is ideal for higher-altitude hikes and enjoying warm weather. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November) offer pleasant temperatures, vibrant colors, and fewer crowds, perfect for lower-elevation trails. In winter, many areas transform into snowshoeing paradises, offering a different kind of family adventure.

The region is dotted with incredible landmarks and viewpoints. You can hike to the Puy de Dôme Summit for panoramic views of 80 volcanoes, or explore the dramatic Puy de Sancy. Other highlights include the iconic Pont d'Arc in the Ardèche gorges and the stunning views from the Dent du Chat over Lake Bourget. Many trails lead to breathtaking vistas of the Alps, including distant views of Mont Blanc on clear days.

Yes, the diverse natural parks and preserved environments of Auvergne Rhône Alpes offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for marmots, ibex, and chamois, especially during the spring and early summer months (March to June). Birdwatching is also popular, with many species inhabiting the forests and alpine areas.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in this region, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied natural landscapes, from volcanic peaks to serene lakes and lush forests. The well-maintained trails, clear signage, and the abundance of options suitable for different family abilities are frequently highlighted, along with the opportunities for memorable outdoor experiences together.

For families seeking a bit more challenge, there are many moderate trails that offer longer distances and more elevation gain. The Pilat Crests Trail, for instance, is a moderate 10 km route with rewarding views. These trails provide a great way to explore more extensive areas like the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park or the Écrins National Park, offering a sense of adventure while remaining manageable for active families.