The Hérisson waterfalls are not a single cascade but a whole walk. Over roughly 3.7 kilometres, the Hérisson stream tumbles down a succession of limestone cliffs, forming 31 falls, pools and rapids in a deep wooded valley. The path follows the water closely, crossing footbridges and climbing stone steps, and the scenery changes at almost every turn.

Key facts before you go

• Location: mainly in Ménétrux-en-Joux, in the heart of the Jura Lake District.
• The falls: 31 in total, including 7 main waterfalls.
• The full walk: about 7.4 km there and back, around 3 hours, with 250 to 300 metres of climbing depending on the route.
• The highest fall: the Éventail (the Fan), 65 metres high.
• Access: the trail is free and open year-round, weather permitting. Parking is charged from the first weekend in April to 30 September: €5 for up to an hour, €10 up to four hours, €15 beyond.
• Rules: dogs are welcome on a lead; swimming in the falls and pools is forbidden; the path is not suitable for pushchairs.

The seven main waterfalls

The Éventail — 65 metres

The largest and most photographed fall spreads out over a wide rock face like an opening fan. From the car park at the Maison des Cascades, at the bottom of the valley, it is only about 400 metres away — so even visitors who do not want to hike can see it.

The Grand Saut — 60 metres

Further up, the stream drops almost vertically into a much narrower, dramatic setting. Stay on the marked path: the rocks are often wet and slippery.

The Gour Bleu

Here the water gathers in a pool with shifting colours before continuing down the valley — one of the most photogenic spots on the trail.

Château Garnier, Saut de la Forge and Moulin Jeunet

The middle section is quieter and greener. The Saut de la Forge, roughly halfway, can also be reached from Bonlieu. Along the way you will spot the remains of old mills and forges that once used the power of the stream.

The Saut Girard — about 35 metres

At the top of the valley, near Ilay, a viewing platform overlooks this fall. It is easily reached from the Ilay car park, which makes it a good option for families and anyone who prefers a short walk.

Which walk should you choose?

• Just the Éventail: park at the Maison des Cascades and walk about 400 metres — five to fifteen minutes on a stony, slightly uphill path.
• A family loop from the top: from the Ilay car park, a loop of about 1.6 km takes in the upper falls, including the Saut Girard.
• The full trail: about 7.4 km there and back and around 3 hours. Start early in summer to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Practical tips

• Wear proper shoes. The path is steep in places, with steps and wet rocks.
• Come after rain or in spring for the most powerful falls; in dry summers the flow can be much lighter.
• Arrive early in July and August: the car parks fill up quickly.
• Share a car if you are several families: parking is charged per vehicle in season.
• Check conditions in winter: ice can make parts of the path dangerous.

Where to stay near the Hérisson waterfalls

The falls are in the heart of the Lake District, an easy drive from our holiday homes. Our Région des Lacs holiday home in Orgelet has a private spa and sauna — ideal after a day on the trail — and our group holiday homes welcome up to 16 guests. For more ideas nearby, read our guides to Lake Vouglans and to visiting the Jura for the first time.

Questions before booking? The easiest way to reach us is by email: write to us in English and we will reply in English.

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