Family walk at the Ballon d'Alsace

Enjoy the tranquility of the forest and stunning views along this hike that will allow you to fully experience the charms of the Ballon d'Alsace, the highest point of the southern Vosges. Note: this walk passes through the protected area of the Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois, dogs, even on a leash, are prohibited. Duration: 2h - Distance: 6 km - Elevation: +140 m - Markings: Yellow disc - Red rectangle - Blue ring - Red disc. Access: National 66, at the St Maurice sur Moselle tourist office take the D486 which is directly across and go up to the top of the pass. Departure: Tourist office at the top of the Col du Ballon d'Alsace. Route: - From the parking lot of the Tourist office, head towards the forest behind the monument "L'Homme projeté" following the central path between the chalet dedicated to cross-country skiing and the sign "Réserve naturelle des Ballons Comtois" (yellow disc/red rectangle GR5 marking). - Enter the forest - At the first intersection (after the sign "forêt domaniale du Ballon d'Alsace"), turn right and follow the blue ring marking "Chemin Colas". At the crossroads 30m further on, turn right again following the same marking: "Ballon d'Alsace 1h30 via the Colas path - Jumenterie 0h45". - Follow the path for about 1km. Take the opportunity to observe the Ballon de Servance on your left, characterized by its antenna at the top. - You will arrive at a small cleared area bordering the paved road. Follow the path that climbs to the right (blue ring "Jumenterie"). - Climb for about 200m on this steep part, until you reach the cow park that you enter. - Cross the field then follow the road while staying in the meadow up to the building in front of you (the Jumenterie). - Cross the road, pass in front of the Jumenterie building, then follow it on the right by taking the path that climbs (red disc, direction "Summit of the Ballon") - You arrive at a small chalet (the red disc is on the left side of it). You will be able to enjoy a picnic table and the presence of Vosgian cows (depending on the season). - With your back to the picnic table, take the ascending path that goes under the ski lift. - Exit the cow park by following the path, then continue for about 600m, through the forest and blueberry bushes. - Upon reaching a clearing, follow the path and stay close to the meadow on your right. Depending on the time and season, you may be able to admire horses. - You can join "the Discovery Trail" by taking a left and heading up to the statue of Joan of Arc. Otherwise, take a right and return to your starting point. Reference IGN map 3520 OT available in tourist offices. The GPX track as well as the description of the walk are available for download above.