Hiking Barrage du Gouffre d'Enfer - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Barrage du Gouffre d'Enfer: trails, map and practical info

Loire • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

4.7 Appreciated by 9 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 29/05/2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
6 km
Elevation
220 ft
Duration
2h15
Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Barrage du Gouffre d'Enfer? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Brg du Gouffre d'Enfer, 42660 Planfoy, France
GPS coordinates
45.3929079, 4.4459224
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The start of the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam trails is located in Saint-Nectaire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. To get there, take the D4 towards Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise and continue on the D618 to Saint-Nectaire. The dam is located near the village.

When?

Opening hours
Open 24 hours every day
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.3929079, 4.4459224
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.7
3 Reviews
R3
Review 3
Feb 20, 2024
Neat place for an easy hike or walk. Looks like there is plenty of sport activities such as climbing, rappelling, and zip lining. I was just on a hike. Easy to get to on foot. From Saint-Etienne Métare (take the M6 from Square Violette to Faculté des Sciences) it's about an hour and a half scenic walk. You pass through Rochetaillée. Plenty of trails and paths to hop onto along the way that take you higher into the hills. There is plenty of parking for those with a car. The 220m elevation change makes it manageable for most fitness levels while still offering rewarding views.
R2
Review 2
Feb 3, 2024
Very great place to make photo's or to make a picknick. DON'T TRASH THERE! The dam area offers incredible photo opportunities with its dramatic landscape and water features. Perfect spot for families looking for a peaceful outdoor lunch with nature as backdrop. Please respect this beautiful environment by taking all your waste with you - let's preserve this gem for future visitors to enjoy.
R1
Review 1
Jan 15, 2024
Must visit place in Saint-Étienne, covered by nature it gives you a sense of relaxation you need. Lot of activities like hiking, trail running, rock climbing and camping can be done here. The 220m elevation gain provides a good workout while still being accessible to most hikers. The natural setting around the dam creates a perfect escape from city life, with well-maintained trails and stunning views of the Loire region.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
220.00
2h15
No
No
The Barrage du Gouffre d'Enfer is rated as moderate difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with basic experience and reasonable fitness. The 6 km distance and 220 m elevation gain are manageable for most beginners who are accustomed to regular walking.
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The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Update : June 2026