9 outdoor activities to discover in the Jura Mountains
Dreaming of fresh air, forests, lakes, sweeping views, and outdoor adventures In the Montagnes du Jura, everything’s in place for you to move, breathe, and explore - all without a car, thanks to the region’s network of trains, buses, and shuttles.
Here’s a round-up of 9 must-try outdoor activities, from European cycle routes to thrilling via ferratas, from peaceful canoe trips to adrenaline-fueled mountain biking. Let’s go!
1. EuroVelo 6
Among Europe’s most scenic cycling routes, EuroVelo 6 crosses the Jura Mountains for more than 175 km along the Doubs River and canal.
Designed for everyone - families and beginners included — it offers a gentle way to enjoy riversides, charming villages, and lush landscapes. Expect light climbs, picnic stops by the water, and tranquil towpaths. A slow and scenic way to experience the Jura.
The kind of scenery you’ll find along EuroVelo 6 – © Michel Joly / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: Easy access from Dole or Besançon train stations. The route is mostly flat, making it ideal even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.
Pro tip: Rent a bike, pack a picnic, and follow the flow of the river. For a “slow travel” half-day, aim for a 20–30 km stretch.
2. GTJ MTB (Grande Traversée du Jura by Mountain Bike)
The Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) by mountain bike is a 415 km journey through gentle mountains, forests, valleys, and diverse landscapes. Depending on your level, you can tackle it over several days or ride selected sections. Some are technical, others smoother - the perfect playground to pick your challenge.
As for scenery, you’ll find it all: meadows, spruce forests, plateaus, rivers, and rolling hills.
On the GTJ trail – © Ron Jacobs / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: The route is well marked (with the GTJ’s own color code), and lighter variants help you skip tougher parts. An e-bike is a great option too.
Pro tip: Pick a memorable stage — like the Retord Plateau or the Monts d’Ain — for the perfect mix of effort and views. Plan accommodation or bivouac stops depending on your pace.
3. Hiking in the Haute Chaîne Nature Reserve
If hiking’s your thing, the Haute Chaîne du Jura Nature Reserve is an immersive paradise of alpine pastures, lakes, and mountain wildlife.
What to expect: bright open valleys, deep forests, and an untouched natural world perfect for peaceful or sporty walks, depending on the trail.
The perfect spot to disconnect – © Hello Laroux / Montagnes du Jura
Practical info: Several marked trails are available, from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Pro tip: Go early to catch the morning mist in the valleys — and keep your eyes open! You might spot marmots or even the elusive capercaillie, the Jura’s iconic mountain bird.
4. Via Ferrata du Regardoir – Lake Vouglans
Strapped to a cliff face above the turquoise waters of Lake Vouglans, the Via Ferrata du Regardoir is a must-do. Spanning 350 m with a 90 m suspension bridge high above the void, it offers jaw-dropping views and thrilling sensations.
The route combines ladders, rope bridges, and airy passages — accessible to both beginners and experienced climbers.
The perfect mix of sport and nature! – © Maud Humbert / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: Open from late June/early July to mid-November (check dates before you go). Difficulty ranges from AD (fairly hard) to D (hard).
Pro tip: Bring gloves and grippy shoes, and take time to soak in the view — the bridge over the lake alone is worth it.
5. Canoeing in the Loue Valley
Need to slow down and reconnect with nature? Glide by canoe or kayak through the peaceful Loue Valley, where cliffs, gorges, and meanders create a magical setting.
Canoe-kayak in Ornans, Loue Valley – © Nino Scherer / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: Several bases offer rentals. Whatever your level, you’ll find the right stretch, from easy, calm waters for beginners to sportier sections for thrill-seekers.
Pro tip: Choose a quiet afternoon and bring sunglasses — the reflections on the water are stunning. Then just let yourself drift through the valley’s serenity.
6. Jurassic Vélo Tours
Looking for a themed cycling trip? Jurassic Vélo Tours offers 43 loops covering over 1,500 km of roads and paths through lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and springs — perfect for a one-day ride or a full cycling holiday.
Jurassic Vélo Tours – © Mizenboite Production / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: A mobile app guides each loop, and e-bikes are welcome!
Pro tip: For a half-day ride, pick a 20–30 km loop — the perfect way to discover another side of the Jura without breaking a sweat.
7. Roller-skiing, Snowshoeing & Biathlon (in winter)
When winter sets in, the Jura Mountains turn into a Nordic paradise, ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or even biathlon!
And if snow is scarce? Try roller-skiing, a dryland version of cross-country skiing using specialized skates — fun, sporty, and surprisingly addictive.
The crisp air, quiet forests, and groomed trails make for pure winter bliss.
Snowshoeing at Crêt de la Neige – © Agence Hula Hoop / BFC Tourisme
Practical info: Nordic centers rent all the gear you need — just check snow or weather conditions before heading out.
Pro tip: Up for a challenge? Don’t leave without trying roller-skiing — the perfect balance between fun and effort.
8. Paragliding Hike in Ain
Want to see the Jura Mountains from above? Try paragliding from the Monts de l’Ain. It’s the ultimate adventure combo, hiking up, then gliding silently through the sky.
Between the rush of the wind, the vast panorama, and the sense of freedom, it’s the perfect activity for anyone craving open-air escape.
The ideal mix of adrenaline and serenity – © Didier Marinet / OT Terre Valserhone
Practical info: Flights are supervised, even for first-timers. Be sure to check weather conditions before you go.
Pro tip: Choose your day wisely — clear skies and calm winds make all the difference for breathtaking views of the massif.
9. Cycling the Grand Colombier
For cyclists, the Grand Colombier is a challenge worth the climb: a tough, twisting ascent rewarded by a 360° panorama over the Jura and the Alps.
Your legs will burn, your breath will shorten — but reaching the top is pure satisfaction.
Climbing the Grand Colombier – © Laurent Madelon / CC Bugey-Sud
Practical info: Make sure your gear is solid (brakes, tires, etc.) and avoid riding in extreme heat.
Pro tip: Set off early in the morning to beat the heat — and maybe enjoy the mountain all to yourself. Pure bliss.
Ready for more?
From the cliffs of Vouglans to the forests of the Haute Chaîne, from tranquil rivers to legendary climbs, the Jura Mountains offer endless adventures — all accessible without a car.
This article was produced in partnership with Montagnes du Jura.
To uncover even more gems, visit www.montagnes-du-jura.fr!
Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).
Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.
