The best waterfall hikes and walks around Rhône
4.5
(5603)
36,470
hikers
4
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around Rhône offer diverse landscapes shaped by the Rhône river and its tributaries, featuring valleys, hills, and forested areas. The region is characterized by a mix of agricultural land, vineyards, and natural woodlands, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Numerous streams and rivers create opportunities to discover cascades and smaller waterfalls. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making many trails accessible for different fitness levels.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Rhône
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is The Saut de Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This easy route features the scenic Saut de Lorette waterfall.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Calvary Chapel, Chavanay – Malleval Village loop from Chavanay, a moderate 9.7 miles (15.6 km) path. This trail winds through varied terrain, including hills and village surroundings, offering expansive views.
- Local hikers also love the Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through river valleys and woodlands, often completed in about 2 hours 2 minutes.
- Hiking around Rhône is defined by its riverine landscapes, rolling hills, and forested paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly waterfall walks Rhône to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Rhône are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 5000 reviews. More than 30000 hikers have used komoot to explore Rhône's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(38)
191
hikers
7.25km
02:03
160m
160m
Hike a moderate 4.5-mile loop through the medieval village of Malleval and the scenic Pilat Regional Natural Park, featuring waterfalls and
4.7
(14)
39
hikers
10.3km
02:59
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(10)
41
hikers
15.6km
04:34
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
14
hikers
9.74km
02:55
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
6.76km
02:02
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
At the sanctuary located here, a Calvary chapel, I would like to invite the hiker / walker staying here to take up a very brief thought from the Holy Father, which Pope Leo XIV expressed on Ash Wednesday this year: + "It is about God's plan, which has a goal: to unite all creatures thanks to the work of reconciliation of Jesus Christ, a work that is accomplished in his death on the cross."
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The Brotherhood of the White Penitents, owners of the Calvary Chapel, was founded in 1578 by the Capuchin Father Matias de Saladin. The Calvary Chapel was built in 1724. Unfortunately, the brotherhood was dissolved in 1777, and the chapel was abandoned. Then, in 1844, the brotherhood reformed and raised the chapel from its ruins. Mass was celebrated there on May 3 and September 14. In addition, the penitents made a procession depicting the Passion every year on Maundy Thursday. In 1892, the brotherhood ceased again, and the chapel remained abandoned until 2000. Finally, it was the Association of Friends of the Calvary Chapel that undertook to restore it with the help of the pilgrims of Santiago de Compostela. The shell construction was completed in 2005, and the interior decoration in 2008. To the left of the door there is a door opener for the pilgrims.
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Ancient medieval village, clinging to the mountainside. To visit
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Do not go to the village by car, but park in the parking lot on the N503. From there you can walk up with a path ...
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The village is almost entirely original. See, for example, the church, the old salt warehouse, the small castle, and also look for Maison du Pendu with horse bones protruding from the facade.
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While running towards the village, you can admire the view of the valley and the medieval village.
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Returning to the village, you can admire the views over the valley and the medieval village.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in the Rhône region?
There are currently over 5 waterfall hiking trails documented in the Rhône region on komoot, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. These trails allow you to explore the diverse landscapes shaped by the Rhône river and its tributaries.
Are there any easy waterfall hikes suitable for families in Rhône?
Yes, the Rhône region offers several easy waterfall hikes perfect for families. For instance, the Saut de Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf is an easy 5.4 km trail that takes about 1 hour 40 minutes to complete, featuring the scenic Saut de Lorette waterfall.
What is the best season to go waterfall hiking in Rhône?
The best time for waterfall hikes in Rhône is typically spring or after periods of heavy rain, when the waterfalls are at their most impressive due to increased water flow. Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking, though some smaller cascades might have reduced flow. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.
Are there any circular waterfall walks in the Rhône valley?
Many of the waterfall trails in Rhône are designed as circular routes, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. An example is the Lorette Waterfall – Malleval Village loop from Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf, a moderate 6.7 km trail that leads through river valleys and woodlands.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes in Rhône?
Waterfall hikes in Rhône feature varied terrain, including riverine landscapes, rolling hills, and forested paths. You'll encounter a mix of agricultural land, vineyards, and natural woodlands. Elevation changes are generally moderate, making many trails accessible for different fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about waterfall trails in Rhône?
The waterfall trails in Rhône are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the beauty of the cascades, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various ability levels.
Are there any longer, more challenging waterfall hikes in the region?
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Calvary Chapel, Chavanay – Malleval Village loop from Chavanay is a moderate 15.6 km path. This trail winds through varied terrain, including hills and village surroundings, offering expansive views and a more extended experience.
What should I wear for waterfall trails in Rhône?
For waterfall trails in Rhône, it's advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, as paths can sometimes be damp or uneven near water features. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions, and a waterproof jacket can be useful, especially during spring or autumn.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the waterfall hiking trails?
Yes, the Rhône region offers several points of interest. While exploring waterfall trails, you might find yourself near historical sites like the Aqueduc Romain du Gier, or natural viewpoints such as Mount Saint-Rigaud and Mont Brouilly, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Can I find any easy waterfall hikes near Monsols?
Yes, near Monsols, you can find an easy waterfall hike. The Châtelard viaduct – Nice one loop from Monsols is an easy 5.9 km trail that takes approximately 1 hour 42 minutes, offering a pleasant walk in the area.
Are there facilities or rest areas along the waterfall routes?
While specific facilities vary by trail, some areas in Rhône, like Condrieu, offer amenities such as the ViaRhôna Bike Rest Area and Facilities. It's always a good idea to check individual route details for information on specific facilities like cafes or restrooms along the way.
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