Among the beautiful crossings to be made in the Jura, it is worth mentioning the one that leads from the Val de Travers to Ste-Croix via the summit of the Chasseron. This hike starts from Môtiers, a beautiful little town, and begins by climbing along the Breuil torrent before crossing the Pouëtta Raisse Gorges. The rest of the hike then crosses a succession of pastures and forests to reach the summit of the Chasseron. What is surprising about this crossing is that despite the significant elevation gain, there are few places where one could be discouraged because of the climbs.
On that day, we had left early, fearing the heat. This also allowed us to be able to cross the Pouëtta Raisse without meeting anyone. Normally, and at other times, one sometimes has difficulty crossing the very narrow sections of the trail. After leaving the gorges, we were, as always, surprised by the contrast. One passes in a few meters from a very vertical and humid environment to warmer undergrowth. Then follows a monotonous climb that allows one to reach the meadows of La Vaux.
After crossing the meadows, we joined the forest road, which is also monotonous, and allows one to reach the chalets of the Cernets. Despite the monotony of this forest road, its route is more pleasant than in the past, when one followed the bottom of the valley. One then found oneself in a very muddy and humid area. After the Cernets, we followed the marked trail passing near the chalet of the Grandsonne and reaching the summit of the Chasseron. Here again, we felt a strong contrast linked to the number of people at the summit.
To descend to Ste-Croix, it is worth following the ridge, which requires a short climb, to pass by the Petites Roches. This small summit offers a beautiful view of the region of Auberson and Cote Aux Fées. For the descent, we had opted for the numbered itinerary. This is a bit more pleasant to hike than the direct descent, as it is less rocky.
Itinerary: Môtiers – Pouëtta Raisse – La Vaux – Les Cernets – Le Chasseron – Petites Roches – La Casba – Les Praises – Ste-Croix
Distance: 17.4Km
Elevation gain: 1000m
Duration: 6h
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