Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park

Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park is a protected area featuring rounded mountain peaks, forests, meadows, and lakes across a large landscape. The terrain includes diverse valleys and ridges with varying elevations and vegetation zones.

The park was created in 1989 to protect natural ecosystems in this mountain region. Since its founding, it has brought together communities and lands across multiple administrative areas under one conservation plan.

Local communities practice traditional farming and crafts that shape the appearance of the land and how people live here. These methods remain visible in the fields and villages scattered throughout the region.

A visitor center near Ballon d'Alsace offers maps and information for hiking and seasonal activities throughout the park. Check conditions before your visit since trail accessibility varies with weather and the season.

The park shelters rare animal species including boreal owls, lynx, and peregrine falcons that inhabit few other places in Europe. These predators benefit from vast, undisturbed forest areas and abundant prey.

Location: Vosges

Inception: June 1989

Website: http://parc-ballons-vosges.fr

GPS coordinates: 48.07808,6.94336

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02