The Cross-Country Area
The cross-country skiing area in Les Rousses is one of the largest in France. Cross-country skiers will find a total of around 200 kilometres of trails here. World Cup races also take place here time and again.
With 30 trails, there is a large selection of varied routes available here. Beginners can practice on more than 20 kilometers of easy trails (green). Those with more experience can use the 58 kilometres of blue-marked, i.e. medium-difficulty trails. Sporty runners will find more than 70 kilometres of challenging trails.
In addition to the 180 kilometres of official cross-country trails, there are also around 11 kilometres of freely accessible trails, the so-called "Espaces liberté". These are located e.g. in Lamoura (Bas des Meures), Bois d'Amont (La Frontière) and at the Fort de Rousses. In contrast to the official cross-country skiing trails, no cross-country skiing fee is charged for these trails.
Another highlight is the Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) long-distance ski trail. This runs for around 28 kilometres through the Les Rousses area. In total, the GTJ is 180 kilometres long.
Interesting facts
- Offering 119.3 miles cross-country trails, Les Rousses is among the 3 largest Cross-Country Skiing Areas in France.
- The highest point of the track is 4528 ft above sea level.
- Snow coverage is usually best during April, offering an average snow depth of 34 " at summit elevation and 4 " at the base.
Videos
Getting Here
Les Rousses is located on the Swiss border just 50 kilometres north of Geneva. From Lyon you drive via Ambérieu-en-Bugey and Oyonnax to Les Rousses. Parking is available at all entry points to the trails.