Cascade du Rudlin

Cascade du Rudlin is a small forest waterfall in the Vosges mountains of eastern France, sitting right on the boundary between the communes of Le Valtin and Plainfaing. It's a modest but rewarding destination for anyone looking for a short walk through fir woodland rather than a full day of hiking.

Where is the waterfall located?

The falls sit in the valley carved by the Rudlin stream, surrounded by the coniferous forest typical of the higher Vosges. Most visitors start from the area around the Étang des Dames, a small pond near the Rudlin hamlet, from which a marked path leads into the valley.

How high is Cascade du Rudlin?

The stream drops over a rock ledge roughly 10 metres high into a natural basin it has carved out over time, then continues cascading over boulders further down the slope. The waterfall itself sits around 100 metres above the valley floor, so the approach involves a noticeable, if modest, climb.

How do you get to the falls on foot?

The most common route is a loop of about 3 kilometres, walked in roughly an hour on average. The path runs through forest track, and the waterfall comes into view after about thirty minutes of walking. The terrain is moderately demanding, and sturdy footwear is worth having, especially after rain, when rocks near the water can get slippery.

Is there anything else to see nearby?

Hikers wanting a longer outing can extend the walk toward the Défilé de Straiture, a gorge flanked by granite slopes. An old sawmill site marks the start of this stretch, where an interpretive trail explains the region's former timber industry. This extended version is considered one of the more varied hikes in this part of the Vosges, mixing valley scenery with views from higher ground.

Can you get something to eat along the way?

On several versions of the return route, an inn stands right by the waterfall, offering a chance to stop for a meal and try local Vosges specialties. It's a convenient spot to rest before heading back to the starting point.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Cascade du Rudlin waterfall? The water falls over a ledge about 10 metres high into a natural basin, then continues down the slope in a series of smaller cascades over rock.

How long does it take to reach the waterfall? From the Étang des Dames starting point, the falls appear after roughly thirty minutes of walking along the forest path.

How long is the walking loop to the falls? The standard loop covers about 3 kilometres and takes around an hour to complete.

Is the trail difficult? It's a moderate walk on a forest path with a short climb, manageable for hikers with an average fitness level.

Can the visit be combined with another site? Yes, a popular extension leads to the Défilé de Straiture, a granite gorge with an interpretive trail near an old sawmill.

Which commune is the waterfall in? Cascade du Rudlin lies on the border between the communes of Le Valtin and Plainfaing, in the Vosges department.

Is there somewhere to eat nearby? Yes, an inn on the return route serves local Vosges specialties.