I’m Thru-Hiking Again! The HexaTrek
It’s time to get back on trail! And you’re coming with me– well virtually that is! I’ll be vlogging the whole trip so you can see the French mountains like you’ve never seen them before.
After hiking 1000 miles of the PCT and the nearly 500 mile Colorado Trail in 2021, it’s time to get back on trail. This time, we’re going to France!
I’m starting the brand new thru-hike of France called the Hexatrek starting at the end of May.
In 2022 France’s first long-distance thru-hike, the Hexatrek, was born! This is the second season that this trail has been open and I’m stoked to be in the 2nd cohort of thru-hikers.
The HexaTrek is a 3034 km hiking trail that connects 14 of France’s most beautiful national parks from the Vosges to the Pyrenees.
France is sometimes referred to as "l'Hexagone" for its hexagonal shape, thus the name Hexatrek. The trail is also divided into 6 stages or segments, and crosses 6 mountain ranges, adding to the theme of 6.
The trails included in the Hexatrek are not new, but instead the route connects 47 Great Hiking GR® trails to create a single path across France.
The trail was inspired by the long-distance trails and thru-hiking hiking culture in the US, but with a French twist. People have been occupying these mountains for hundreds and even thousands of years, so this isn’t the same kind of remote backcountry experience as, say, the PCT. Instead, it’s a unique opportunity to experience French culture, landscapes, and history in a new way.
Stopping off in the most picturesque villages, HexaTrek is a journey into wilderness, tradition, history, and French culture.
Hiking in France is great for several reasons. Here are a few:
Diversity of Landscapes: France has a diverse range of landscapes, from the Alps to the Pyrenees, and the Massif Central to the Jura Mountains.
Well-Maintained Trails: France has an extensive network of well-maintained hiking trails, including some of the most famous long-distance trails in the world, such as the GR20 in Corsica, the Tour du Mont Blanc, and the GR10, which crosses the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.
Rich Cultural Heritage: France has a rich cultural heritage, with historic castles, picturesque villages, and ancient ruins scattered throughout the country. Hiking in France provides an opportunity to explore this heritage up close and at your own pace.
Excellent Food and Wine: France is renowned for its food and wine, and hiking provides an opportunity to sample local delicacies and wines along the way. There are numerous vineyards and farmers' markets to be discovered while hiking in France.
Ease of Travel: France is well-connected by train and bus, making it easy to travel between hiking destinations. Many of the major hiking trails in France are also easily accessible by public transportation, making it possible to do multi-day hikes without needing a car. This also means that resupplying on trail should be pretty simple.
Overall, the combination of beautiful landscapes, well-maintained trails, rich cultural heritage, excellent food and wine, and ease of travel make hiking in France a truly unique and rewarding experience.
Anticipated Challenges
There are several challenges that a foreign hiker may face when doing a long-distance hike across France. Some of these challenges include:
Language Barrier: French is the official language of France, and while many French people speak English, there are areas where it may be difficult to communicate without knowledge of French. Learn a few common words or phrases before you head out and try your best to use them.
Visa Requirements: As a Canadian, in order to stay longer than 90 days, I’ll need to apply for a long-stay visa in France. This costs a couple hundred dollars and takes at least a month. The visa is also subject to approval which requires proof of funds for the duration of the stay and a passport with at least two pages and a year of validity.
Weather: The weather in France can be unpredictable and vary widely depending on the season and region. You may encounter snow or adverse weather at higher altitudes. It is important to be prepared for various weather conditions, especially during long-distance hikes.
Terrain: The terrain in France can vary greatly, from rugged mountain trails to flat winding paths. Not all sections of the HexaTrek are graded for novice hikers. Alternates are typically available, but always hike within your limits and looks ahead. It is important to research and prepare for the terrain that will be encountered during the hike.
Cultural differences: Cultural differences can sometimes pose challenges, such as differences in customs, etiquette, and social norms. It is important to be respectful and learn about local customs and traditions before embarking on a long-distance hike in France.
I’m super excited to hike this trail and share all of the beauty with each of you! Remember to subscribe over on my youtube channel so you don’t miss out on the adventure!
Save this trail to your bucket list on Pinterest or send this page to a friend you want to hike with :)
