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A stunning loop easily accessible from town, overlooking Lake Annecy and the French Alps.


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Map Key

7.6

Miles

12.3

KM

62%

Runnable

4,168' 1,270 m

High

1,480' 451 m

Low

3,483' 1,062 m

Up

3,482' 1,061 m

Down

17%

Avg Grade (10°)

89%

Max Grade (42°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Lake · Views

Overview

This loop makes a great day run to explore the hills and mountains above the charming town of Annecy. The climb is tough so come prepared for a challenge, but also know that you'll be rewarded for your efforts with two outstanding viewpoints from the summits of Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron. From these high points, you can survey the stunning blue waters of Annecy to the west and the snow-capped peaks of the heart of the French alps to the east.

Runner Notes

Great trails if you like steep and rocky and views for miles!

Description

Starting from the southeastern edge of town, you can find the start of this trail tucked alongside a hedge on the east side of the road that circles Lake Annecy. There are several public parking areas nearby, or if you are staying close-by you can run the wide lakeside path to reach the start.

From the beginning, you are faced with a steep climb, as the wide trail climbs straight up toward the eastern hills of Annecy. You run past houses on your left on a wide rocky path, but soon will start switchbacking through dense woods, climbing steeply up narrow and, at times, rocky singletrack trail. Most junctions are signed with signposts telling you the distance to key destinations although the trails are not named. You may spot occasional colored blazes painted on trees.

You'll continue the switchbacked climb for the first two miles until coming to the Col du Pre Vernet (here the road also comes quite close to the trail). Take the trail marked for Mont Veyrier, turning to the southeast and continuing your climb through the trees. You'll be climbing along a rocky, tree-covered ridgeline. At just over 2.5 miles, you'll reach the vista at Mont Veyrier. Enjoy the views of before continuing on for another 0.5 miles to the equally impressive summit at Mont Baron.

From Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron, you can survey the blue-green waters of Lake Annecy and the looming shoulders of Mont Semnoz to the west and the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the east. On clear days, you can often spot paragliders enjoying the breeze high above the lake.

From here, you could simply head back the way you came, but for a more adventurous outing, make the run a loop by continuing on past Mont Baron and looping down and around through the woods to head back to your starting point. Theres is a pretty steep descent you'll have to navigate past Mont Baron, but take your time and after about a mile of running, the trails will mellow out a bit, allowing for a pleasant run through the verdant landscape.

History & Background

Lots of history in Annecy!

Shared By:

Kristen Arendt

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#1

in Annecy

#3255

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Annecy

#26

in France

#3,255

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663 Since Jan 16, 2020
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Photos

Sculpture
Jan 16, 2020 near Annecy-…, FR
Le Massif Des Bauges
Jan 16, 2020 near Annecy-…, FR

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Feb 6, 2020
Simon Brunet
Feb 2020 - First 1000m elevation. — 2h 16m
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