Best Hiking Areas in Paris, France

Paris, often known as the City of Light, is more than just museums and iconic landmarks. It offers a variety of scenic hiking trails that provide a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings. Here are some of the best hiking areas to explore in Paris:

1. Bois de Boulogne

• Location: West of Paris, between Porte Maillot and Neuilly-sur-Seine
• Distance: Varies according to your route
• Highlights: The Jardin d’Acclimatation, the Longchamp Racecourse, and Lac Inférieur (Lower Pond)

Bois de Boulogne is a large public forest and park in the west of Paris. It offers numerous hiking trails, cycling paths, horse riding tracks, lakes, gardens, and even a zoo. A perfect place to escape the city bustle while still being within its borders.

2. Bois de Vincennes

• Location: East of Paris, between Belleville and Vincennes
• Distance: Varies according to your route
• Highlights: The Château de Vincennes, the Zoological Park of Vincennes, and the Parc Floral de Paris

Bois de Vincennes is another large public park in east Paris. It’s home to the historic Château de Vincennes, the largest zoo in Paris, and a beautiful botanical garden called Parc Floral de Paris. The park also features several hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for a day outdoors.

3. Parc Régional du Vieux Moulinais

• Location: Northeast of Paris, in the commune of Le Perreux-sur-Marne
• Distance: 8 km (round trip)
• Highlights: The old mill, several ponds, and various wildlife

Parc Régional du Vieux Moulinais is a regional park located northeast of Paris. Despite being close to the city center, it offers a peaceful and serene environment. The park features several hiking trails that lead you through forests, fields, and along streams.

4. Parc de Sceaux

• Location: Southwest of Paris, in the commune of Sceaux
• Distance: Varies according to your route
• Highlights: The Château de Sceaux, the English garden, and the formal garden

Parc de Sceaux is a beautiful park southwest of Paris. It’s home to the Château de Sceaux, an 18th-century castle, as well as two distinct gardens: an English garden and a formal garden. The park offers several hiking trails that allow you to explore these attractions while enjoying the natural surroundings.

5. Parc Forestier de Saint-Maurice

• Location: Southeast of Paris, in the commune of Saint-Maurice
• Distance: Varies according to your route
• Highlights: The old quarry, the waterfall, and the diverse wildlife

Parc Forestier de Saint-Maurice is a large forested area southeast of Paris. It features a former quarry that has been transformed into a natural swimming pool, a waterfall, and several hiking trails. The park offers a unique opportunity to explore the geology and biodiversity of the area.