The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Lens

There are over 25 dog-friendly hiking trails around Lens, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. This includes 5 easy, 19 moderate, and 1 difficult trail, ensuring options for every fitness level and dog.

The most distinctive features are the 'terrils' or slag heaps, which offer unique hiking opportunities and panoramic views. For example, the The terrils 83 and 94 — loop from Marais de Fouquières trail allows you to explore these reclaimed industrial mounds. The Parc de la Glissoire also features a viewpoint atop an old mining slag heap, providing expansive vistas.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly walks. A great option is the Galance Marsh – Étang du Brochet loop from Harnes, which is approximately 6.9 km long and offers a gentle terrain suitable for a relaxed pace with your canine companion.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly trails around Lens are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the The terrils 83 and 94 — loop from Marais de Fouquières, which explores both reclaimed mining terrils and marsh areas.

The landscapes around Lens are diverse, blending industrial heritage with natural beauty. You'll encounter unique 'terrils' (slag heaps) that have been reclaimed by nature, offering elevated views, as well as marshlands like the Marais de Fouquières and Galance Marsh. These areas provide a mix of open spaces and unique ecosystems for you and your dog to explore.

Yes, several trails incorporate water features. The Étang du Brochet – Galance Marsh loop from Lens is a moderate route that takes you past the Étang du Brochet and through the Galance Marsh, offering scenic views and opportunities for your dog to enjoy the natural surroundings. You can also find highlights like Marsh Pond and Marais de la Galance.

The dog-friendly trails in Lens are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique landscapes, the historical context of the terrils, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities and their canine companions.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging adventure with their dog, the Ruisseau Saint-Nazaire – Ring of Remembrance loop from Bouvigny-Boyeffles is a moderate route spanning over 14 km with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for well-conditioned dogs and their owners.

Many trails in Lens are intertwined with the region's rich mining heritage. Hiking the terrils, such as those on the Mont de Justice – Small natural arch loop from Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, provides a tangible connection to the area's industrial past, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll be exploring landscapes shaped by history.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with your dog in Lens, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are advisable. Winter walks are also possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on some trails.

When hiking the terrils, be aware that some paths can be steep or have loose surfaces. While many are well-maintained, it's always good to keep your dog on a leash, especially near steeper sections or where wildlife might be present. The unique 'black soil' of these terrils is generally safe for paws.