Walking Itinerary in Grenoble : Our 5 Favorite Spots
Grenoble hiking itinerary: if you’re dreaming of fresh air and discovering nature around the city, you’re in the right place. Nestled in the heart of Isère, between the Alps and valleys, Grenoble is an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s natural beauty on foot. Hikes, walks, loop trails, walking routes, cycling getaways or snowshoeing in winter — everything you need to delight nature lovers.
In this article, we present 5 unmissable walking routes around Grenoble, suitable for all levels. Each itinerary is designed to offer a moment of discovery, whether with family, friends, or solo. Some are even accessible without a car. Whether you enjoy mountains, forest paths, or alpine lakes, let yourself be guided.
1. La Bastille and Mont Jalla: the perfect urban hike
- Starting point: Grenoble city center or Bastille cable car
- Distance: Around 4 km round trip
- Duration: 2h
- Elevation gain: 300 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
A must-do in Grenoble, this city walk takes you to the Bastille fort. From Jardin des Dauphins, hike up or take the famous cable car “bubbles.” At the top: a fortified square and spectacular views over the entire valley.
You can continue the trail to Mont Jalla on a well-marked path for a peaceful escape between nature and history. A perfect route for a quick nature break in the heart of the city.
More info: Grenoble Tourisme.
2. Bois des Vouillants and Tour Sans Venin: nature and heritage
- Starting point: Tram E stop Fiancey – Prédieu
- Distance: Around 8.5 km
- Duration: 3h30
- Elevation gain: 350 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
Located on the city heights, this forest park offers a refreshing walk. The route to Tour Sans Venin, labeled a “remarkable curiosity of France,” gives you exceptional views over the Belledonne range and the Grésivaudan valley.
This is a pleasant hike year-round, perfect to reconnect with nature close to the city. Bonus: optional loop variations with return via Parc Karl Marx.
Route on Visorando.
3. Lac du Crozet: Alpine escape in Belledonne
- Starting point: Pré Raymond parking lot (Uriage-les-Bains)
- Distance: 9.3 km round trip
- Duration: 4h30
- Elevation gain: 670 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate
This mountain lake is one of the most stunning natural sites in the Belledonne range. The hike alternates forest paths, clearings, and rocky passages. In summer, go early — it’s a popular spot for its beauty and tranquility.
GPS lovers can download the GPX track to follow the trail easily. Don’t forget your camera: the lake’s reflections with mountain backdrops are magical.
Details available here.
4. Charmant Som: one of Chartreuse’s most scenic peaks
- Starting point: Bus N62 → Col de Porte
- Distance: 12 km round trip
- Duration: 4h
- Elevation gain: 550 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Charmant Som, in the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park, is one of the most accessible hikes offering sweeping views of the Alps. In winter, it’s also a great snowshoeing route with steady and safe elevation gain.
From the mountain pasture farm to the summit, each loop in this circuit offers a fresh perspective over the Grenoble valley. On clear days, you can even see Mont Blanc.
Practical info: Chartreuse – Tourisme.
5. Saint-Ours Chapel and Échaillon viewpoint: spirituality and scenery
- Starting point: Bus 5100 → Le Gua – Saint-Barthélémy
- Distance: Around 4.5 km
- Duration: 2h
- Elevation gain: 200 meters
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This walking route takes you to a lesser-known part of Trièves, south of Isère. Follow an accessible path to reach a small chapel perched above the Vercors cliffs. The Échaillon viewpoint offers one of the best panoramas over the Drac gorges.
This trail is quiet and under the radar, combining mountain, spirituality, and unspoiled nature. Ideal for a peaceful day hike, no car needed.
More info: Chapelle Saint-Ours.
Snowshoeing in Grenoble: a magical winter adventure
Isère turns white from December on. Snowshoeing becomes one of Grenoble’s most popular winter activities. Whether in Vercors, Chamrousse, around Lac Achard, or the alpine pastures of Chartreuse, there’s no shortage of marked snowshoe trails.
Easy to access and often in loops, they’re perfect for family outings or winter mountain lovers. Be sure to check the trails and download a GPX track to stay on course.
Learn more: Grenoble Tourisme.
Why choose Grenoble for your hikes in 2025?
Located in the heart of the French Alps, Grenoble is the perfect base to explore natural parks, high-altitude lakes, forest trails, and panoramic ridgelines. Accessible on foot, by bike, or public transport, the region is packed with hiking opportunities, nature circuits, and discovery trails.
Ready for your next hike in France? Grenoble is waiting for you — laced-up and backpack-ready!
Looking for a furnished apartment in Grenoble? Lodgis offers a selection of furnished rentals available now.
Wondering where to live in Grenoble? Check out our guide to the city’s most popular neighborhoods.
