The Sentier des Roches is the most spectacular hike in the Hautes-Vosges. Carved into the cliff face in 1909 between Col de la Schlucht and the glacial cirque of Frankenthal, this equipped trail with ladders and cables crosses the Frankenthal-Missheimle National Nature Reserve. It attracts nearly 40,000 hikers a year and requires a good level of fitness and a complete absence of vertigo.
Key facts
| Short loop | Classic loop | Long loop | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route | Schlucht / Krapenfels / Trois Fours | Schlucht / Frankenthal / Col de Falimont | Schlucht / Frankenthal / Schaeferthal |
| Distance | 6.2 km | 8.2 km | 10.3 km |
| Elevation gain | +355 m | +525 m | +590 m |
| Duration | 2h30 | 3h30 | 5h |
| Level | Difficult | Difficult | Very difficult |
- Start / finish: Col de la Schlucht car park (alt. 1,139 m)
- Waymarking: blue rectangle, Club Vosgien
- Open: 1 May to 31 October
- Dogs: strictly prohibited
The route: starting from Col de la Schlucht
The trail begins at Col de la Schlucht, on the Alsace-Lorraine border. From the car park, the Club Vosgien’s blue rectangle marking leads to the trailhead at the forest edge.
The first kilometres cross wooded terrain before the path narrows progressively. The trail climbs and engages the cliff face. This is where the alpine character of the Sentier des Roches asserts itself: the path, literally cut from the rock by Club Vosgien volunteers over a century ago (some passages with dynamite), is sometimes no wider than 50 centimetres, with a sheer drop below.
Cabled passages and metal ladders bolted into the rock face follow one another. Hands and feet are both engaged. Progression demands concentration, a sure foothold at every step, and calm composure facing the void.
The Frankenthal cirque
After the most exposed passages, the trail descends into the glacial cirque of Frankenthal, one of the most pristine natural sites in the Vosges. The Frankenthal farm-inn marks a good rest point before the ascent.
Depending on the variant chosen:
- Short loop: return via Trois Fours refuge and the ridge back to the pass.
- Classic loop: climb to Col de Falimont (views over the Hohneck), return along the ridge.
- Long loop: descent toward Schaeferthal, a wilder longer crossing, return through the valley floor.
The classic and long loops can be combined with the Route des Crêtes for a full ridge day.
Safety: what to know before you go
The Sentier des Roches is not a standard hike. A few firm points:
- Vertigo: a dealbreaker. Some passages offer several hundred metres of vertical drop beneath your feet, with no safety net.
- Rain: absolutely avoid. Wet limestone becomes extremely slippery, even with good boots.
- Footwear: trainers or sandals are out of the question. High ankle, Vibram sole or equivalent.
- Children: caution required. The passages demand arm strength to climb the ladders.
- Crowds: with 40,000 visitors a year, the trail is very busy in July-August. Crossings on narrow passages slow progress. Early morning starts strongly recommended.
Getting there from La Bresse
La Bresse is about 15 km from Col de la Schlucht via the D34 (25 min). In summer, the Navette des Crêtes shuttle connects La Bresse to the pass, allowing a car-free trip. If you are staying in a chalet near La Bresse, this is the most practical option to avoid the car park queues.
The Sentier des Roches pairs naturally with the ascent of the Hohneck from the ridge (classic or long loop), or a drive along the Route des Crêtes at the end of the day.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Sentier des Roches?
Difficult to very difficult depending on the variant. Vertiginous passages equipped with ladders and handrails, narrow rocky terrain. Not recommended for people with vertigo, young children, or untrained walkers. Difficulty level: 8/10.
How long does the Sentier des Roches take?
Three variants: short loop via Les Trois Fours (6.2 km, 2h30), classic loop via Frankenthal and Col de Falimont (8.2 km, 3h30), long loop via Frankenthal and Schaeferthal (10.3 km, 5h). All start and end at Col de la Schlucht.
Is the Sentier des Roches suitable for children?
Not recommended for children. The cable passages and metal ladders cut into the cliff face require arm strength, very good balance, and a complete absence of vertigo. Suitable from around 14-15 years for sporty teenagers experienced in hiking.
When is the Sentier des Roches open?
Open from 1 May to 31 October. Closed by prefectural order from 1 November to 30 April. Even in season, avoid in wet weather: wet rocks make the cable passages extremely slippery and dangerous.
What gear do I need for the Sentier des Roches?
High-ankle hiking boots are mandatory (grippy sole, ankle support). Waterproof windbreaker, minimum 1.5 L water per person, snacks. IGN map 3618OT recommended. Dogs are strictly prohibited on the trail, even on a leash.
How do I get to the Sentier des Roches from La Bresse?
From La Bresse, take the D34 to Col de la Schlucht (approx. 15 km, 25 min). Free parking at the pass. In summer, the Navette des Crêtes shuttle from La Bresse avoids parking problems. Arrive before 9am in July-August: the car park fills up fast.