Tips and advice before setting off

But before you set off on your adventure in your best walking boots, we’d like to give you a few tips and tricks to help you prepare for your hike.

I. I’ll find out what I need to know before I leave

• I check the weather forecast. If the weather is bad (rain, storm, wind), I postpone my trip. The weather is unforgiving, especially in the mountains. The weather can change rapidly!
• I find out about the route: distance, time, gradient, type of terrain. Beware, many people overestimate their physical capacity! If you’re a beginner, opt for a short walk with little change in altitude. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Perseverance is the key to long hikes.
• Some hiking trails are part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. I should therefore find out about the regulations in force. For example, wildlife quiet zones are set up from 15 December to 30 June (from 15 December to 15 May for the Platières site) to ensure the tranquillity of wildlife. Hiking is therefore regulated. For example, dogs are prohibited (even if kept on a lead). So it’s essential to find out more beforehand.
• If I’m going away on my own, I tell my family where I’m going, for how long and when I plan to return.

2. I’m equipped from head to toe

• Good shoes are a must. We’re not on the beach, so sandals and bare feet are out ;). The key is to choose shoes that are comfortable for you and that hold your ankles well.

• Don’t forget your socks. It would be a shame if you came back from your expedition with blisters all over your feet.

• Dress appropriately for the season. Use the 3-layer technique: 1 close-fitting layer, 1 thermal layer and 1 protective layer.

• Have a suitable rucksack: a rucksack of around 30 litres has enough volume for a day’s hiking.

• In this bag we’ll find: a hat and sun cream, a water bottle (the quantity will depend on the hike), something to eat, a hiking map or topo-guide, a watch or phone with a suitable application, a first aid kit, a survival blanket and a whistle if possible, and finally a plastic bag to use as a bin.

3. I respect nature

• I keep to the signposted paths as some of the surrounding fields and meadows are privately owned.
• I close the gates to the parks because animals could escape.
• I don’t go near the herds, I go around them and watch out for the patous.
• I don’t throw rubbish away.
• I respect the regulations in force if I am in the nature reserve.

4. I can read the markings

In Pays de Gex – Monts Jura, you will find two types of signposting:

• Local yellow signposting for short walks.
• The red and white markings correspond to the GR 9 and the Grande Randonnée.

5. I know what to do in the event of an accident :

• I alert emergency services by dialling 112.
• I use distress signals.

You’re now ready to discover the Pays de Gex – Monts Jura. But before you go, we’d like to give you a few more tips.

We just want to wish you all the best for your hike, and don’t hesitate to share your best photos with us on the networks using #paysdegex and #montsjura!

Prepare your stay

Accommodation

Restaurants

Walks in the Pays de Gex

Access & transport