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Free Access · Year-Round
Cascade du Chinaillon
A 30-meter waterfall cascading down a narrow gorge on the Nant du Chinaillon, accessible in 20 minutes' walk from the resort. Legend of the first couple of Bornandins.
Cascade du Rouget · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA
At a glance
Type
Natural waterfall
Access
Free · No charge
Duration
20 min walk from Chinaillon
Best season
April – October (spring for maximum flow)
Parking
Free (Chinaillon car parks)
Dogs
Accepted on leash
Stroller
Not suitable (muddy terrain, steep trail)
Town
Grand-Bornand
What is Cascade du Chinaillon
The Cascade du Chinaillon, also called the Mysterious Cascade, is a natural waterfall located in the Aravis massif, at approximately 1,164 meters altitude above the Grand-Bornand Chinaillon resort. Fed by the Nant du Chinaillon, a tributary of the Borne, it plunges some thirty meters down a narrow gorge carved out by water. The site is accessible in about twenty minutes' walk from the main Chinaillon road, on a marked trail crossing meadows and beech forest.
The "mysterious" name of the waterfall originates from a local legend: it was at the foot of this waterfall that the first inhabitants of Grand-Bornand are said to have met, giving birth to the "Bornandins". This story passed down through generations adds a touch of poetry and enigma to this already impressive natural site. In spring, when snowmelt swells the torrent's flow, the sight is particularly striking. In autumn, the flamboyant colours of the surrounding beech forest add a different charm to the walk.
The trail first leads to the most spectacular part of the waterfall, then descends steeply towards the Chinaillon torrent where you discover a wild gorge. The terrain can be muddy and slippery — good hiking boots are essential. This easy and refreshing walk, ideal for families, also allows you to discover old Chinaillon with its typical alpine chalets and panoramic views over the Aravis range.
Activities
What you can do here
Practical
Practical information
Address
L'Arbelay, Grand-Bornand Chinaillon, 74450 Grand-Bornand View on map
Coordinates
45.9625° N — 6.4391° E View on map
Altitude
1,164 m
Opening
Year-round except in snowy conditions, at your own risk. Recommended period: spring, summer, autumn (April to November).Verified 14 May 2026
Admission
FreeVerified 14 May 2026
Parking
Free. Several car parks at Chinaillon, including the base of slopes car park (Vallée du Bouchet road) and the Mottaz/Arbelay car park.
Animals
Dogs accepted on leash
Accessibility
Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Steep trail with muddy terrain in places. Good hiking boots essential.
Access time
20 min walk from the trail start at Chinaillon (one way)
Contact
Grand-Bornand Tourist Office: +33 4 50 02 78 00 — infos@legrandbornand.comVerified 14 May 2026
When to visit
When to visit
The trail is passable from April to November, except in snowy conditions. In spring (April–May), after rain or snowmelt, the waterfall reveals itself in all its power with spectacular flow. In summer, prefer a visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peace and coolness in the shade of the beech forest, especially during peak season at the resort. In autumn (October), the flamboyant colours of the forest add different charm to the walk. Avoid snowy periods (December to March) when the trail may be impassable. Check with the Tourist Office before departure.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is access to Cascade du Chinaillon charged?
No. Access to Cascade du Chinaillon is free and uncharted year-round, except during snowy periods.
How long does it take to reach Cascade du Chinaillon?
About 20 minutes' walk from the trail start at Chinaillon. The path crosses meadows and beech forest on a marked trail.
Why is Cascade du Chinaillon called "Mysterious"?
According to local legend, it was at the foot of Cascade du Chinaillon that the first inhabitants of Grand-Bornand are said to have met, giving birth to the "Bornandins". The exact origin of the name remains unclear, hence its mystery.
Are dogs accepted at Cascade du Chinaillon?
Yes. Dogs are accepted at Cascade du Chinaillon, provided they are kept on leash on the trail.
Is Cascade du Chinaillon accessible with a pushchair?
No. The trail leading to Cascade du Chinaillon is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Muddy terrain, steep descent towards the torrent. Good boots essential.
What is the best season to visit Cascade du Chinaillon?
Spring (April–May) is ideal to see Cascade du Chinaillon with maximum flow thanks to snowmelt. Autumn (October) offers a flamboyant setting with the colours of the beech forest.
Is there parking at Cascade du Chinaillon?
Yes. Several free car parks at Chinaillon provide access to the Cascade du Chinaillon trail start: the base of slopes car park and the Mottaz/Arbelay car park.
Can you swim at Cascade du Chinaillon?
Not recommended. The water at Cascade du Chinaillon and the torrent is glacial year-round. The site is primarily for observing the waterfall and gorge.
Sources
Sources & verification
Multi-source verification at publication date. Information may change — confirm with the official operator before travelling.
