The best walks and hikes around Paris
4.6
(943)
15,489
hikers
860
hikes
Hiking around Paris offers diverse outdoor experiences within the Île-de-France region. The landscape features extensive ancient forests like Fontainebleau and Rambouillet, characterized by varied woodlands and unique sandstone formations. River valleys, including the Seine and Yvette, provide scenic paths through verdant countryside. Numerous parks within the city, such as Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne, offer accessible green spaces for urban walks.
Best hiking trails around Paris
- The most popular hiking route is Tour des Monuments de Paris — De l'Arc de Triomphe à L’Opéra Garnier, a 7.8 miles (12.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 16 minutes to complete, exploring central Parisian landmarks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tour de Vincennes, a moderate 7.9 miles (12.7 km) path. This route circles the expansive Bois de Vincennes, offering a mix of forest and lake views.
- Local hikers also love the Tour of the Trocadéro and the Invalides, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail leading through iconic Parisian districts, often completed in about 1 hour 43 minutes.
- Hiking around Paris is defined by ancient forests, river valleys, and urban green spaces. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy city strolls to more challenging forest treks.
- The routes in Paris are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. More than 14,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Paris's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.2
(15)
57
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(36)
104
hikers
12.7km
03:14
40m
40m
Hike a moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route around the picturesque lakes of Bois de Vincennes, Paris's largest public park.
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4.3
(16)
43
hikers
7.94km
02:01
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
17
hikers
6.45km
01:43
70m
70m
An easy 4.0-mile urban hike in Paris, offering iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and other famous landmarks.
4.8
(41)
664
hikers
20.5km
05:14
70m
70m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(21)
268
hikers
7.80km
02:01
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(164)
1,531
hikers
27.3km
07:01
130m
140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(32)
175
hikers
15.2km
03:53
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(38)
201
hikers
6.09km
01:40
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(18)
272
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The park's terrain was once a gypsum quarry. The rock has since become crumbly again. The rock island with the Temple of the Sibyl and the two bridges to it were closed in 2022. No reinforcement measures are visible.
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The rocky island with the Sibyl Temple has been closed since 2022, as have the two bridges leading to it. The brittle rock has since been checked for changes, but no measures have been taken to secure it. The brittle Drachenfels near Bonn is fixed every 20 years with new supports made of steel and concrete.
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The Pont de la Concorde is a bridge over the Seine in Paris, France. It connects the Place de la Concorde and the Quai des Tuileries with the Quai d’Orsay, running directly towards the Palais Bourbon, the seat of the Assemblée Nationale, the French National Assembly.
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The Champs-de-Mars was originally designed as a military parade ground, but was later transformed into a park. Major events have taken place here: - In 1783, Jacques Charles became the first person to ascend here in a hydrogen-filled balloon. The following year, Blanchard even soared to an altitude of 4,000 meters in a piloted balloon. - On July 14, 1790, the first anniversary of the storming of the hated Bastille was celebrated here, drawing an impressive 300,000 people. - On July 17, 1791, a crowd of Parisians gathered here to sign a petition for the removal of Louis XVI. In the riots that erupted, soldiers under the command of the Marquis de La Fayette shot some 50 civilians. - On June 8, 1794, the Feast of the Supreme Being, proclaimed by Robespierre, was celebrated, featuring dancers from the Opera. Several large-scale exhibitions were held here, including the World's Fairs of 1867, 1878, 1889 (for which the Eiffel Tower was built), 1900, and 1937.
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The Viaduc des Arts (Viaduct of the Arts) is a former railway viaduct near the Place de la Bastille in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viaduc_des_Arts?wprov=sfla1
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For safety reasons, the viewpoint is not accessible.
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The bridge's piers feature: La Victoire de la Paix (Victory of Peace) – by Victor Vilain La Victoire de la Guerre (Victory of War) – by Georges Diebolt These two groups of sculptures are symbolic of 19th-century war mythology.
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The Champ de Mars is located in the heart of Paris, offering a view of the Eiffel Tower. Many tourists gather here to take photos in front of the tower. There are numerous benches, small cafes, and souvenir and drink vendors. It's a very busy place, but could be better maintained. It's easily accessible by metro.
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More Information
Exploring extraordinary forests
The City of Light is also a city surrounded by forests and you’ll never have to travel too far to find yourself in the shade of trees. The Forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye is an old royal hunting forest, once reserved for kings staying at the nearby chateau. Filled with oak and beech, this forest remains a wonderful place to come for peaceful walks near Paris.
One of the most famous forests near the city is Fontainebleau. This phenomenal landscape is where you’ll find the best hiking trails around Paris and beloved of boulderers and walkers alike. It lies within the Gâtinais Français Regional Nature Park and has hundreds of paths within its territory. The forest is popular in summer but it’s so huge, you’ll always find peace if you want it.
Just across the Seine from Orly airport is Senart Forest. One of the oldest in Île-de-France, this forest is another royal hunting ground and has plenty of beautiful paths to explore. Hornbeams, oaks, birch and chestnut trees all work to give it a magical feel.
There is yet more woodland on the outskirts of the city, filled with charming paths and providing a respite from the busyness nearby. Verrière Forest, Fausses-Reposes Forest and Montmorency Forest all offer wonderful hikes near Paris.
Lounging around châteaux
Lovingly tended gardens are marvellous but not often a place for a lengthy walk. Unless, of course, you find yourself in the vicinity of France’s great capital. Here, the châteaux have gardens that go far into the distance and if you’re looking for a gentle walk, they’ll whisk you away to a time gone by.
Versailles is Paris’ most famous gilded neighbour and has almost 2,000 acres (809 ha) of gardens. That’s quite a walk. The Château de Rambouillet dates back to the 1300s and has a pretty, formal garden too. After you’ve taken in the perfectly maintained flower beds, you can explore the vast Rambouillet Forest next door.
Watching the weather
The Paris region gets hot in summer when sunshine fills the skies. The forests offer shade and the ability to walk much longer in particularly high heat. Spring and autumn can be changeable, warmer some years and cooler others. This is when the colours are most vibrant as well, with stunning spring blooms and rich, golden autumn leaves.
Winter is another fantastic time to enjoy walks around Paris. Snow can fall across the region and there are few more astounding sights than château lawns under a blanket of the white stuff. Whatever time of year you go hiking here, you’ll find a little spark of je ne sais quoi.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Paris?
The Paris region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 850 trails recorded on komoot. These range from urban strolls to more extensive forest treks in the surrounding Île-de-France area.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Paris?
The hiking routes around Paris are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 870 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from historic city paths to tranquil forest trails, and the accessibility of many routes.
Are there hiking options for beginners or those looking for an easy walk?
Yes, Paris and its surroundings offer many easy hiking options. Over 550 routes are classified as easy, perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed stroll. For example, the Tour of the Trocadéro and the Invalides is an easy 4.0-mile (6.5 km) trail through iconic Parisian districts.
Are there any challenging hikes near Paris?
While many routes are moderate or easy, there are also more challenging options for experienced hikers. The region features 15 difficult trails, often found in areas like the Fontainebleau Forest with its unique rock formations, or longer routes such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris – Trocadéro loop from Cadet, which spans nearly 28 km.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Paris?
Yes, many trails around Paris are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Tour de Vincennes, which circles the expansive Bois de Vincennes, and the Circuit du Bois de Boulogne.
Where can I find unique natural features or landscapes while hiking near Paris?
The Île-de-France region boasts diverse natural landscapes. The Fontainebleau Forest is famous for its unique sandstone rock formations and ancient woodlands. The Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park offers verdant valleys and river walks. You can also find tranquil ponds and shaded trees in the Rambouillet Forest. For specific natural highlights, consider visiting the Square du Temple – Elie Wiesel.
Are there any waterfalls or lakes to see on hikes near Paris?
Yes, you can encounter beautiful water features on hikes near Paris. The Bois de Boulogne features lakes and waterfalls. For a notable waterfall, consider visiting the Grande Cascade of Saint-Cloud Park. Additionally, Lake Gravelle is another scenic spot to explore.
Are there historical sites or castles accessible on hiking trails?
Absolutely. Many trails near Paris weave through or connect to significant historical sites. The Chevreuse Valley, for instance, features the Château de la Madeleine. You can also explore the Vincennes Castle or the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, which are often part of urban hiking routes. The Fontainebleau Forest is also adjacent to the historic Château de Fontainebleau.
Can I access hiking trails near Paris using public transport?
Yes, many excellent hiking areas around Paris are easily accessible by public transport, making them ideal for day trips without a car. The Bois de Vincennes, for example, is directly accessible by Metro. The Île-de-France region's extensive public transport network connects to many starting points for forest and valley hikes.
Are there family-friendly hiking routes suitable for children?
Yes, the region offers numerous family-friendly routes. Many parks within Paris, like Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne, provide easy, flat paths suitable for families. The Haute Vallée de Chevreuse also has trails of varying levels, including gentler options perfect for a family outing.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Paris?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times for hiking around Paris, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be warm, but shaded forest trails provide relief. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on urban routes or in forests, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any specific trails that offer scenic viewpoints of Paris or the surrounding area?
While Paris itself is relatively flat, many urban routes offer iconic city views, such as the Tour des Monuments de Paris. For broader scenic views of the surrounding countryside, trails in the Vexin Regional Natural Park offer impressive vistas from cliffs above the Seine. The Mont Aigu trail in Fontainebleau Forest also provides elevated perspectives.
Where can I find more information about hiking in the Paris region?
For additional inspiration and details on outdoor activities, you can explore resources like the official Paris Region tourism website. They offer further insights into hiking and other active pursuits in the area: visitparisregion.com/en/what-to-see-and-do/getting-active/hiking.
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