The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Northern France
4.5
(29474)
180,242
hikers
7,735
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Northern France traverse a varied landscape, characterized by dramatic coastlines, ancient forests, and rolling hills. The region features iconic chalk cliffs along the Opal and Alabaster Coasts, offering panoramic views of the English Channel. Inland, hikers can explore diverse woodlands, wetlands, and undulating hills, providing a range of natural environments for outdoor activities. This geographical diversity ensures a wide selection of routes suitable for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Northern France
- The most…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.6
(349)
1,844
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(228)
1,152
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.6
(193)
815
hikers
6.94km
01:52
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(146)
725
hikers
8.90km
02:29
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(82)
378
hikers
4.90km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Northern France
Family-friendly hikes in Nord
Family-friendly hikes around Dunkirk
The Ardennes Trail (GR 14) – From Paris to the Belgian border
At the pace of the Westhoek - Streek-GR Heuvelland
Via Francigena in the Pas-de-Calais – GR 145
In the footsteps of History — GR 145, the Via Francigena
Nature and heritage around Paris – hiking the GR 11
Journey from Flanders to the Somme – GR 120 coastal path
Walking around Ile-de-France in Paris – GR 1
EuroVelo 3 – A cycling pilgrimage from Norway to France
Other adventures in Northern France
Tips from the Community
A few information boards, hills and ditches - unfortunately there is nothing more to see of the fort here.
0
0
Beautiful and exciting in any season. The view of the English chalk cliffs is also fantastic, weather permitting.
4
0
The rocks, with their cracks and small caves in the calcareous wall, provide an important nesting site for numerous bird species such as jackdaws, house martins, fulmars, kestrels, gulls, terns and herring gulls. As part of a renaturation project in 2006, a section of the asphalt road leading to the summit and the parking spaces there were completely removed. Instead, a parking lot about 300 meters inland was significantly expanded.
53
0
Excavations carried out before the construction of a car park on Mont d'Hubert, near Cap Blanc Nez (Pas-de-Calais), have uncovered the remains of a Middle Neolithic camp (4,200 to 3,800 years before our era). The camp, covering three hectares, surrounded by a ditch and visible from more than thirty kilometers away, has yielded remains of animal and human bones, ceramics and flints. Source: https://www.inrap.fr/un-camp-neolithique-de-hauteur-proche-du-cap-blanc-nez-escalles-1349
51
0
The Petit Blanc-Nez is a cliff in the Pas-de-Calais region and is part of the Deux-Caps (Two Capes) area, which also includes Cap Gris-Nez. Both are part of the protected area classified as a Grand Site de France and offer breathtaking views of the English Channel and, on a clear day, the English coast.
51
0
The Belvedere at Cap Blanc-Nez combines breathtaking views, remarkable nature, and moving war history. Ideal for a short stroll or as part of a longer hike along the Côte d'Opale. There is a parking lot near the Cap Blanc-Nez viewpoint and the Dover Patrol obelisk. (GPX coordinates: 50.924566672947996, 1.715753582037452)
53
0
Incredibly beautiful paths - partly on wooden planks, partly through fine sand. A small, hidden natural paradise that can be wonderfully explored on a circular hike.
2
0
An impressive backdrop when visibility is good.
6
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Northern France?
Northern France boasts a vast network of over 7,500 hiking trails. More than 3,300 of these are rated as easy, making them ideal for families looking for accessible and enjoyable outdoor adventures.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Northern France?
The cooler climate of Northern France makes spring, summer, and early autumn ideal for family hiking. During these seasons, you'll find pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, from coastal paths to ancient forests.
Are there any circular family walks in Northern France?
Yes, many family-friendly routes in Northern France are circular, perfect for a day out without needing to arrange transport back to your starting point. For example, the Dunes de la Slack loop from Wimereux offers an easy, scenic circular route through varied dune areas.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Northern France?
Northern France offers incredibly diverse landscapes. You can explore dramatic coastal paths along the Opal Coast, like the Sentier du Fartz loop from Wissant, or venture into ancient woodlands such as the Forêt d'Eu and Forêt de Compiègne. The Avesnois Regional Nature Park also offers rolling hills and charming villages.
Are there any easy family hikes with scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely! The coastal regions are particularly rich in scenic viewpoints. The Balconies of Escalles Trail, for instance, offers stunning vistas of the chalk cliffs and the English Channel. You can also visit Cape Blanc-Nez for panoramic views.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along family hiking routes?
Many routes pass by fascinating landmarks. Along the coast, you might encounter historical sites like Fort d'Ambleteuse or natural wonders like the Dunes of the Slack. Inland, some trails lead near magnificent castles such as Chantilly Castle or through beautiful natural areas like the Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park.
Are there family-friendly trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, Northern France has numerous trails perfect for beginner families. Many routes are relatively flat and well-maintained, such as the Parc de la Deûle loop, offering gentle walks through parks and nature reserves.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Northern France?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Northern France, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse scenery, from dramatic coastlines to peaceful forests, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any family hikes that include beaches or coastal access?
Yes, the Opal Coast and Alabaster Coast offer fantastic opportunities for family hikes with beach access. Trails often lead to or along pebbled beaches and dramatic cliffs, such as the Cran d'Escalles beach, providing a refreshing break and opportunities for exploration.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on family hikes?
Northern France's diverse habitats are home to various wildlife. In ancient forests like Forêt d'Eu, you might spot deer and a wide array of birds. Coastal areas, especially around the Bay of Somme, are known for birdwatching and even seal spotting in Authie Bay.
Are there any easy trails near Lille?
Yes, near Lille, you can find several easy and accessible family-friendly trails. The Parc de la Deûle loop from Houplin-Ancoisne is a great example, offering a pleasant walk through a green park setting, perfect for a family outing close to the city.
Most popular routes in Northern France
Most popular attractions in Northern France
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Northern France below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
