Hiking: the high peaks from Lélex

Track types

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Safety information

Safety instructions :

This trail crosses part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, so please respect its regulations. https://www.rnn-hautechainedujura.fr/

Among these rules: Dogs forbidden, even on a leash!

Before setting off :

•  Check the general and local weather forecast, and make sure there's no precipitation.
• Find out about the approach to the route, its height, how long it will take to reach the summit and any possible escapes (IGN map, GPS, topo-guide, etc.).
• Evaluate possible risks by asking mountain professionals, refuges and gîtes.
• Inform someone close to you of your objective, and contact them again if there are any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with telephone numbers for each, vehicle(s), parking.
• Avoid setting off alone, and use equipment that is suitable for the activity, adjusted and in good condition: headlamp, complete first-aid kit, survival blanket, etc.

 In the event of a problem, call 112 (European emergency number).

This route borders a mountain pasture where Patous dogs are present:

The Patou or guard dog: what attitude should you adopt?

When hiking, it's not uncommon to come across flocks of sheep or goats guarded by guard dogs known as patous.

These dogs, formidable against predators such as wolves, bears and lynxes, can frighten hikers with their barking.

The patou protects the herds in total autonomy. Its main role is to deter intruders and alert the shepherd. Raised among the ewes from an early age, he learns to protect them at all times, often in groups.

To avoid problems with a Patou:

•  Identify grazing areas before setting off.
• Keep your distance and go around flocks if possible.
• In the event of an encounter, stay calm, turn back slowly or stop to let the dog sniff you out.
• Don't try to pet or feed the animals, avoid sudden movements, don't run, and avoid taking photos.

For runners:

•  Do not run when approaching a herd.
• Take off your headphones to hear the dog's barking.

By adopting these behaviors, you'll be able to cohabit serenely with guard dogs during your hikes.

For more informations :

Pasto Kezako

Map Patou, where are the guard dogs?

The awareness-raising toolbox.

Tips and suggestions

▶ This route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Please respect the regulations.
The rules include the following: Dogs are strictly forbidden, even on a lead. Plant picking and mineral collecting are also prohibited.
The trail crosses a Quiet Zone, closed from December 15 to June 30. Tolerance is granted for use of the GR, provided you stay strictly on the marked path. It is forbidden to leave the path.
▶ Before setting off :
Check the general and local weather forecast, and make sure there's no precipitation. Find out about the approach route, the height of the itinerary, the time it will take to complete the climb, and any possible escapes (IGN map, GPS, topo-guide, etc.). Evaluate possible risks by asking mountain professionals, mountain huts and gîtes. Inform someone close to you of your objective, and contact them again in the event of any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with telephone numbers for each, vehicle(s), parking, etc. Avoid setting off alone, and use equipment that is suitable for the activity, adjusted and in good condition: headlamp, complete first-aid kit, survival blanket, etc. In the event of a problem, call 112 (European emergency number).
▶ The Patou or guard dog: what attitude should you adopt?
When out hiking, it's not uncommon to come across flocks of sheep or goats guarded by guard dogs known as patous. These dogs, formidable against predators such as wolves, bears and lynxes, can frighten hikers with their barking. The patou protects flocks in total autonomy. Its main role is to deter intruders and alert the shepherd. Raised among the ewes from an early age, he learns to protect them at all times, often in groups.
▶ To avoid problems with a patou:
Identify grazing areas before setting off. Keep your distance and go around flocks if possible. In the event of an encounter, stay calm, turn back slowly or stop to let the dog sniff you out. Don't try to pet or feed the animals, avoid sudden movements, don't run, and avoid taking photos.
▶ For runners:
Do not run when approaching a herd. Take off your headphones to hear the dog's barking.
By adopting these behaviors, you'll be able to cohabit serenely with guard dogs on your hikes.

Directions

From Chézery-Forens on the D991

From Mijoux on the D991

Parking

Lélex Village, herringbone parking space.

Coordinates

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