4.3
(386)
1,355
riders
206
rides
Mountain biking around Chazelles-sur-Lyon offers diverse terrain within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The area is characterized by picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and proximity to the Monts du Lyonnais, providing varied elevation changes suitable for mountain biking. Natural features like the Gimond Dam and the Loire Gorges contribute to a landscape that combines woodland paths with open views. This region presents a mix of trails, from riverside loops to more challenging routes with significant climbs.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(5)
10
riders
26.3km
02:18
560m
560m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(3)
5
riders
57.0km
04:49
1,000m
1,000m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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1.0
(1)
4
riders
54.7km
04:12
1,070m
1,070m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
46.2km
02:56
580m
580m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
18.5km
01:30
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Very good path along the Aveize road
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Small hamlet, perfect for a stopover
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Nice little paths in the undergrowth with small bumps to take off the mountain bikes with the children.
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Along the road to Chazelle, a small green setting is offered to nature lovers: the Hurongues lake. This ideal place for a walk and for a family picnic. Swimming is prohibited for the moment but a project is being studied to make this activity authorized in the summer of 2024.
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Located on the old Aquitaine road that linked Lyon to Bordeaux, Saint-Symphorien became an important place in the 11th century when the Counts of Forez built their castle there, which later became the collegiate church. Even today, you can discover the remains of the fortifications that overlook the city. Saint-Symphorien has been able to exploit its geographical position during the development of industries, as evidenced by the industrial wasteland of the Tanneries. The city is part of the Most Beautiful Detours of France and is crossed by the way of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle. Its typical architecture with half-timbered houses, and its sausage make it a stop not to be missed.
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The Gimond dam was built in 1925 to supply water to the town of Chazelles-sur-Lyon and support the millinery industries. It is now a place of relaxation and stroll for walkers but also a place well known to fishermen.
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There are over 200 mountain bike routes around Chazelles-sur-Lyon, offering a wide variety of terrain and difficulty levels. These include 31 easy routes, 141 moderate routes, and 32 difficult routes, ensuring options for every skill level.
The terrain around Chazelles-sur-Lyon is diverse, featuring picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and proximity to the Monts du Lyonnais. You'll find a mix of woodland paths, open views, and varied elevation changes, including riverside loops and more challenging routes with significant climbs. Natural features like the Gimond Dam and the Loire Gorges also contribute to the varied landscape.
Yes, Chazelles-sur-Lyon and its surrounding territory are ideal for country excursions, offering stunning landscapes suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly tagged, the region has 31 easy routes that are generally suitable for less experienced riders or families looking for a gentler ride. The nearby Montrond-les-Bains also features a magnificent greenway that delights cyclists of all ages.
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting landmarks. For example, the Courtine Crest – Gimond Dam loop from Viricelles passes by the beautiful Gimond Dam. The Bois Barou – Chapel of the Plain loop from Viricelles offers views towards the Chapel of the Plain. Further afield, the La Salette Chapel in Larajasse provides a beautiful panorama of the Monts du Lyonnais, the Pilat, and even the Alps on clear days.
Yes, the Courtine Crest – Gimond Dam loop from Viricelles is a difficult 39.8 km route that features significant elevation gain and passes directly by the Gimond Dam. Another option is the moderate Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise – Gimond Dam loop from Chazelles-sur-Lyon, which is 46.2 km long.
The mountain bike routes in Chazelles-sur-Lyon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 375 reviews. More than 1,300 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from the Monts du Lyonnais to river valleys, and the options for all ability levels.
While Chazelles-sur-Lyon itself offers many routes, the nearby Monts du Lyonnais, approximately 23 km away, boast a 'Grand Tour' trail that spans 180 km. This can be explored over several days and offers numerous panoramic views and a rich historical heritage, making it an excellent option for longer adventures.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the moderate An air of the Breton coast – The Loire River loop from Le Claveau, the difficult Courtine Crest – Gimond Dam loop from Viricelles, and the challenging Bois Barou – Chapel of the Plain loop from Viricelles.
The Monts du Lyonnais, a significant draw for mountain bikers near Chazelles-sur-Lyon, offer a range of difficulties. The 'Grand Tour' trail, for instance, is a substantial 180 km route, suggesting it caters to experienced riders. However, the region as a whole provides options for various skill levels, from lush green landscapes for leisurely rides to more challenging sections with significant elevation changes.
Yes, several interesting places are accessible from the trails. Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise is a charming settlement you might encounter. The spa town of Montrond-les-Bains is also nearby and features a magnificent greenway for cyclists. These towns can offer opportunities for refreshments or a break during your ride.
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons provide milder weather and lush landscapes, making them ideal for mountain biking. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for higher elevations or after rainfall, as trail conditions can vary.
Yes, the An air of the Breton coast – The Loire River loop from Le Claveau is a moderate 51.6 km trail that specifically follows the Loire River, offering scenic views along its banks. The nearby Loire Gorges also provide beautiful woodland scenery, though specific mountain bike trails directly within the gorges are not detailed here.


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