HexaTrek

Six main sections of the trail give you a taste (not just of the wine and cheese) of the diversity of France’s wilderness. The first section, in the East, takes you between lakes and mountains. You’ll hike past numerous ruins, evidence of the region’s turbulent history, with one of the highest densities of castles per square kilometer in the world. “La route des vins,” local gastronomy, and the picturesque villages of Alsace will awaken all your senses.

Moving on, you head into the Northern Alps. Here, the HexaTrek lifts you to the highest summits, with plenty of glaciers, high mountain lakes, and of course, lots of cheese! While the Northern Alps are renowned for their bustling ski resorts, those who explore them in the summer discover a completely different side of this range.

Continuing south, you enter the Southern Alps. Similar to the Northern Alps but with more sunshine, the Hautes-Alpes are a paradise for adventurous hikers. The altitude difference per kilometer in this stage is among the highest in HexaTrek. It’s challenging but guarantees a deep immersion in nature. Less crowded than its neighboring Hautes-Alpes, this stage introduces you to the Pre-Alps, Vercors, and Baronnies region.

Leaving the Alps behind, you trek through the Corges and Causses region in south-central France, full of surprises shaped by time and water. Deep gorges and high plateaux provide stunning views for HexaTrek hikers. This stage is great because you can refresh with almost daily dips in natural water reserves.

Stage 5 dances along the summits of the Eastern Pyrenees, crossing borders between France, Andorra, and Spain in the heart of the Pyrenean range. The forests of Ariège and the Pyrenean hinterland offer beautiful landscapes.

The sixth and final stage in the Western Pyrenees boasts the range’s highest peaks. You’ll face significant altitude changes but will be rewarded with incredible vistas where rugged ridges meet stunning natural beauty.

The best time of the year to hike the HexaTrek is June through October. However, it depends on if you hike SoBo or NoBo. If you hike SoBo, you can begin anytime between mid-May and mid-June, while if you hike NoBo, you’ll need to begin in mid-June to stay on track and (hopefully) avoid snow.

Begin setting your expectations of the weather conditions specific to each region through research. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially in the Alps and Pyrenees, where storms can arise suddenly. Pack accordingly with layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes to navigate the terrain safely.

Navigational skills are essential because this trail includes remote sections. Carry detailed maps, a GPS device or smartphone with offline maps, and know how to use them effectively. A compass never hurts, either!

In remote regions such as the Corges and Causses or the Pre-Alps, be prepared for limited communication and medical facilities. Carry a fully charged phone and consider a portable charger or solar charger. Your first aid kit should include essentials like bandages, antiseptic, blister treatments, and any personal medications.