The best running trails around Neuvilly-En-Argonne

There are over 25 dedicated running routes around Neuvilly-En-Argonne, offering a variety of experiences through the Argonne Forest and its surroundings. These routes cater to different fitness levels, from moderate to difficult.

The Argonne Forest, accessible from Neuvilly-En-Argonne, features wild woodlands, small hills, and deep valleys carved by rivers. You'll encounter undulating terrain, predominantly covered with oak, chestnut, and pine trees, with ferns often blanketing the forest floor. This provides a varied and scenic environment for running.

Yes, for a gentler option, the Running loop from Le Haut du Faubourg de Verrières is a moderate 5.4 km (3.4 miles) route. Another good choice is the Running loop from Mini parc air de jeux, which is 7.5 km (4.7 miles) and also rated moderate. The Etang des Bercettes also offers a 2 km discovery trail that is relatively flat.

Generally, the trails within the Argonne Forest are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in sensitive natural areas like the Etang des Bercettes, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

For families, the 2 km discovery trail around the Etang des Bercettes is an excellent choice. It's a classified Sensitive Natural Area with an observatory for fauna and flora, offering a gentle and engaging experience for all ages. Shorter, moderate routes like the Running loop from Le Haut du Faubourg de Verrières are also suitable for families looking for a less strenuous run.

The primary natural feature is the vast Argonne Forest itself, with its diverse trees and potential for wildlife sightings like wild boar or deer. Within Neuvilly-En-Argonne, the Etang des Bercettes is a significant natural attraction, featuring a 7-hectare pond and a discovery trail. You might also encounter historical World War I sites, such as the Ravin du Génie Open-Air World War I Museum or various war memorials, along some routes.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the popular Running loop from Récicourt is a 9.8 km (6.1 miles) circular trail through forested areas. The Grizée – L'Étang Neuf loop from Moiremont is another excellent circular option, covering 19.8 km (12.3 miles) of varied terrain.

The running routes in Neuvilly-En-Argonne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Runners often praise the natural beauty of the Argonne Forest, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained paths that offer a rewarding outdoor experience.

While specific parking areas for each trailhead are not detailed, the presence of nearby towns like Varennes-en-Argonne and Montfaucon-d'Argonne, and starting points like 'Mini parc air de jeux', suggests that parking is generally available in or near the villages and starting points of the routes. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

The Argonne Forest offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal for running. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the shaded forest paths, while winter offers a unique, tranquil experience, though some paths might be muddy or icy.

Neuvilly-En-Argonne itself is a small village, but nearby towns such as Varennes-en-Argonne and Montfaucon-d'Argonne offer cultural sites and amenities, including cafes and restaurants. These can be good options for refreshments before or after your run, especially if your route starts or ends near these locations.

The Argonne Forest is home to a variety of wildlife. Joggers might encounter wild boar, red deer, roe deer, hares, rabbits, and foxes. The Etang des Bercettes also provides opportunities for observing diverse fauna and flora, particularly birds, from its dedicated observatory.