Cascade du Gué du Saut

Cascade du Gué du Saut is a small waterfall in the commune of Xertigny, in the Vosges department in the Grand Est region of France. Dropping around five metres over a rocky ledge in the forest, it has long been a favourite short walk for locals and visitors looking for an easy woodland outing near Xertigny.

Where exactly is the waterfall?

The cascade sits within the Vosges forest, a short distance from the centre of Xertigny. It is fed by the Rechentreux stream, a tributary of the Semouse, which rises near the Étang des Noëls pond and winds through the woods before tumbling over the small rock step that forms the falls. The setting is a shaded forest clearing, cool and pleasant even in summer.

How do you get there?

From the centre of Xertigny, the route follows the D434 road before turning onto the D12. Signposts mark the way, so finding the site does not require much more than following the road signs. A picnic area sits right by the falls, making it a natural stopping point for a rest during a longer walk.

What hiking trails lead to the cascade?

Several looped walking trails of varying length start near the waterfall. One of the shorter options, around 1.3 km long with a modest elevation gain of roughly 40 metres, is easy enough for most visitors, including families with children. Longer circuits continue through a beech forest toward the Blanc Murger crossroads, giving hikers more time among the trees and views over the surrounding Vosges hills. A small wooden footbridge crosses just above the falls, giving a good vantage point over the water.

What should you know before visiting?

The waterfall looks its best after rain, when the flow is stronger; during dry summer spells the stream can run quite thin. The ground around the site is forested and can be damp or slippery, particularly in autumn and spring, so sturdy footwear is worth bringing. This is not a large or dramatic waterfall by national standards, but it makes for a pleasant stop along a walk, with a picnic spot for a break.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Gué du Saut waterfall? The cascade drops roughly five metres, making it a modest, intimate forest waterfall rather than a major natural landmark.

How long does it take to reach the waterfall? The shortest loop trail to the cascade is about 1.3 km, an easy walk that typically takes under an hour round trip, including time to rest by the water.

Is there anywhere to eat near the waterfall? Yes, a picnic area is set up right next to the cascade, used by hikers taking a longer break on their walk.

Which stream feeds the waterfall? The falls are fed by the Rechentreux stream, a tributary of the Semouse river, which originates near the Étang des Noëls pond.

Is the trail suitable for children? The shorter loop, with its gentle elevation gain and length of about 1.3 km, suits families with children, though the forest path can be uneven and damp in places.

When is the best time to visit the cascade? Water flow is strongest in spring and after autumn rains; in summer, during dry spells, the stream can run noticeably lower.