Réserve naturelle nationale de la haute-chaîne du Jura, National nature reserve in Eastern France.
The Réserve naturelle nationale de la haute-chaîne du Jura is a protected area spanning multiple valleys and slopes along the French-Swiss border, distributed across 17 towns. The landscape alternates between forests, open meadows, and rocky formations, with the highest peaks reaching around 1,720 meters.
The area formed through tectonic movements during Alpine mountain building roughly 20 million years ago. Glaciers then shaped the current landscape with its valleys and slopes during the last ice age.
The area maintains traditional mountain farming through controlled grazing that helps preserve high-altitude grasslands and local wildlife. These practices shape how the landscape looks and how people in surrounding villages interact with the land.
Visitors can use marked trails throughout the year, accessible from several towns including Gex, Divonne-les-Bains, and Thoiry. Wear sturdy footwear and check weather conditions before visiting, as the elevation means conditions can change quickly.
The area holds around 950 flowering plant species and serves as habitat for over 200 vertebrate species, including golden eagles and lynx. This variety makes it a valuable refuge for rare mountain species.
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