Montée de Cinquétral in Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura Motorcycle Route

The Montée de Cinquétral road is situated in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France, specifically within the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura. This regional natural park is known for its protected landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The road section discussed here lies near the town of Saint-Claude, with the starting point approximately 700 meters from the town center and the ending point about 7 kilometers away, still within the town's vicinity. The road traverses a mountainous area, reaching elevations up to 892 meters (2,927 feet), and runs alongside the river La Bienne for about 20% of its length. The Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura is a notable protected area, and more information can be found on its official website at Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura. An interactive map showing the road section can be found at the end of this article.

The Montée de Cinquétral road, designated as D69, extends for approximately 11.5 kilometers (7.1 miles). It is an asphalt-surfaced mountain pass road with a generally high-quality surface rated at 4.8 out of 5. The road is moderately curvy, providing a riding experience that is engaging but not overly technical. The majority of the road (about 84%) consists of two lanes, with a smaller portion (around 13%) being single-lane sections. Road width varies, with about 67% of the route being wide enough to comfortably accommodate two vehicles side by side, while narrower sections account for approximately 14%. The speed limit is set at 80 km/h (50 mph), appropriate for the road's mountainous terrain and curves.

The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly 21.7% of its length, including the settlements of Grande Rue and Rue Lacuzon. It also runs adjacent to the river La Bienne for about 20% of the route, offering riders views of the watercourse as they travel. The highest point on the road is the Montée de Cinquétral mountain pass at 887 meters (2,910 feet) elevation, which is a key feature of this route.

The road is located within the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura, a protected area known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. This park encompasses a variety of landscapes, including forests, rivers, and mountainous terrain. The Montée de Cinquétral road offers access to these natural surroundings and is ideal for riders interested in experiencing the Jura Mountains' environment.

Along the route, riders can find viewpoints that provide opportunities to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The proximity to the river La Bienne adds to the natural appeal, as the road runs alongside the river for a significant portion. The river itself is a tributary of the L'Ain and extends over 101 kilometers (63 miles).

The Montée de Cinquétral road is accessible year-round; however, being a mountain pass road in the Jura Mountains, it may be subject to seasonal weather conditions such as snow and ice during winter months. Riders should exercise caution and verify local conditions before planning trips in colder seasons. There are no specific reports of regular road closures or event-related restrictions affecting motorcycle access on this route.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with the Montée de Cinquétral road or the Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura. Riders can use this route freely, but it is advisable to check for any future changes in toll policies or access regulations. For general information about road tolls and fees in France, visitors can consult official resources such as the French Autoroutes website.