Oyonnax to Saint-Claude via Col de Sur la Semine in Haut-Jura National Park

The route runs in the eastern part of France, within the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, connecting the towns of Oyonnax and Saint-Claude. This road passes through the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura, a protected area known for its mountainous terrain and natural beauty. The road ascends to the Col de Sur la Semine, a mountain pass at 1190 meters (3,904 feet) elevation, offering riders a blend of natural scenery and moderate elevation changes. The route covers a distance of approximately 30.5 kilometers (19 miles). An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road is predominantly asphalt surfaced with a high-quality rating of 4.6 out of 5, ensuring a smooth riding experience. It is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating just under 1 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, making it suitable for riders who prefer a balanced challenge without excessive technical demands. The road width is mostly wide (about 78%), with middle and narrow sections making up the remainder. It generally features two lanes (about 90%), with a small portion of single-lane sections (6%).

Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph), 50 km/h (31 mph), and 30 km/h (19 mph) depending on the segment and local conditions. Approximately 30.7% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including the towns of Oyonnax and Saint-Claude, as well as smaller settlements along the way such as Route des Moussières and Rue de la Fruitière.

The route includes the Col de Sur la Semine, a notable mountain pass at 1190 meters (3,904 feet) elevation. The road's elevation ranges from a low point of 765 meters (2,510 feet) to the pass's summit, providing riders with gradual climbs and descents. This elevation profile offers a varied riding experience with changes in altitude that can affect weather and road conditions. The pass is a key feature of the route and is well-known among local riders and travelers exploring the Haut-Jura area.

The road traverses the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura, a regional natural park that protects the unique Jura Mountains environment. This area is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and panoramic viewpoints. One notable attraction along the route is a viewpoint offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for a rest stop or photo opportunity. More information about the park can be found on the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura official website.

The road is open year-round but may be subject to seasonal weather conditions typical of mountainous regions, such as snow or ice in winter months, which can affect accessibility and safety. There are no tolls or entrance fees for this route, but riders should verify current conditions before travel. For more details on road tolls and fees in France, consult official resources such as the French government transport website.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing a comprehensive overview for motorcyclists planning to ride this route.