4.4
(11)
41
hikers
Le Saut du Gier
05:55
17.1km
890m
Hiking
This beautiful hike explores the northern slope of the Pilat massif, on the foothills of the Gier valley. This narrow valley marks the boundary between the urban area of Saint-Etienne and the natural landscapes of the massif.
The route begins in La Valla-en-Gier, a charming little village in the heart of the valley. Head to the Rive dam, the junction point between the Ban and Gier water reservoirs.
It is from there that the slope rises to join the tracks of the GR 7. This connects the Vosges to the Pyrenees. The climb to the Col de la Croix du Planil is pleasant. The brooms are scattered along the edges of the path and there is no shortage of views over the valley.
After the Planil, a section in the forest awaits you. With denser vegetation, perspectives become rarer. It is at the bend of a chirat that the landscape opens up again. Shortly after you leave the GR 7 to go down towards the Saut du Gier.
This part is quite steep but the waterfall that awaits you is well worth some effort.
It is emblematic of the massif. Its history is closely linked to the geography and hydrology of the region. The name "Saut du Gier" comes from the Gier river, which has its source in the Pilat massif and flows into the Rhône. This waterfall, formed by a spectacular jump in the river approximately 45 meters high, bears witness to the erosion and geological phenomena that have shaped the landscape of this region over the millennia.
The end of the hike goes back down towards La Valla via some beautiful single tracks and forest trails. Be careful at kilometer 15, the route takes part of the Croix de Chaubouret road.
Last updated: August 13, 2024
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 10.3 km for 238 m
Waypoints
Start point
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86 m
La Valla-En-Gier
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1.24 km
Rive dam spillway
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9.09 km
Viewpoint overlooking the Gier Valley
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10.6 km
Saut du Gier Waterfall
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17.1 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.57 km
6.44 km
1.15 km
416 m
356 m
193 m
Surfaces
5.81 km
4.59 km
2.45 km
1.80 km
1.11 km
484 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,220 m)
Lowest point (510 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 28 May
27°C
14°C
0 %
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Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
A very beautiful loop 🥰 with a slightly steep descent approaching the waterfall and a very bushy section for about 500 m after the Scie du Bost
Walking shoes highly recommended and good physical condition (some climbs/slopes are very steep). Allow 6 hours of walking for a strolling pace with short breaks.