Recharge your batteries at Lac du Ballon and the Kletterbach waterfalls

Back to Alsace for the end of summer! Take this atypical route to the Ballon for one last break before the new school year starts!

Alsatians or visitors, marvel at this magnificent stroll between forest, waterfalls and the Lac du Grand Ballon d'Alsace! This hike can be enjoyed in summer as well as in winter, when the view of the frozen waterfall is magnificent. The path is quite accessible, but not very visible and slippery in places. So don't forget to take good hiking boots to avoid slipping. There's a farmhouse inn along the way, but don't forget to take a bottle of water with you.

Our partner Visorando can provide you with all the information and advice you need on this and other hikes in the area!

Route:

Park at the Schutzle parking lot. Once in the village of Lautenbach Zell, walk up the Grand Rue towards Sengern to the Schutzle path. Continue to the end of the path where you'll find the parking lot and park here. To begin the hike, head off in the direction of Gustiberg. After a right-hand bend and a stream crossing, take the path to the left. Continue along this path until you reach the Gustiberg colony and the Ferme-auberge (farmhouse), which indicates that you are heading for the stubble fields. Follow the forest path to Lac du Ballon, which you can walk around, then back to the Ferme-auberge. From here, follow the forest road to the right, indicated by blue crosses. Skip the fork in the road unless you want to stop for a picnic on the tables. Continue along this path until you reach the Kletterbach waterfalls and torrent. Turn back about 100m before the waterfall and take the path that twists off to the left. Stay on this path and join the forest road, then turn right to return to the starting point! You can also see the waterfall from below on the same path.

• Average time: 3h20
• Distance: 8.61 km
• Difficulty: Medium
• Return to starting point: Yes

lac du Ballon and Cascade du Kletterbach