Petite cascade de Tendon

Petite Cascade de Tendon is a small, quiet waterfall tucked into the forest of the Tendon commune, in the heart of the Vosges massif between Gérardmer and Épinal. Unlike its well-known neighbour, the Grande Cascade de Tendon (the tallest waterfall in the Vosges at roughly 32 metres), the Petite Cascade is a modest, intimate spot: the rocky step over which the stream tumbles measures only a few metres, with sources giving figures between about 5 and 7 metres. It sits at an altitude of around 600 metres, surrounded by the dense, damp woodland typical of this part of the range.

Where exactly is the Petite Cascade de Tendon?

The waterfall lies on the same stream and in the same valley as the Grande Cascade, but further along the trail, deeper into the forest. Its approximate GPS coordinates are 48.1216, 6.6989. Most visitors start from the car park by the Grande Cascade in the Tendon commune, from where the path continues through the woods toward the smaller falls.

How do you get there, and is the walk difficult?

No special fitness is required — this is a walk suitable for almost anyone, families with children included. From the car park at the larger waterfall, the route crosses a stretch of forest known as the Bois de Crostille, a walk of around thirty minutes, before turning at a clearing onto the Faing Janel path, which leads directly to the small waterfall. The trails are waymarked, so finding your way is straightforward even on a first visit.

Is it worth combining the visit with the Grande Cascade de Tendon?

Yes, and this is in fact how most people experience the site. A loop of roughly 3 kilometres connects the two waterfalls, covered there and back, making it a natural choice for families and beginner hikers. For those wanting to see more of the surrounding countryside, a longer circuit of about 8 kilometres starts from the village of Tendon itself, linking both cascades and passing through some of the most attractive stretches of Vosges forest.

What should you know before visiting?

The Petite Cascade de Tendon is a place built for a quiet pause rather than a dramatic view — its appeal lies in the coolness and intimacy of the forest setting rather than in scale. It makes a good stop for a break during a longer walk through the valley, especially in summer, when the shade of the trees and the nearby water offer a natural way to cool off. Sturdy footwear is worth bringing, as the forest paths can be damp and rooty in places, even though the route itself is not technically demanding.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Petite Cascade de Tendon the same place as the Grande Cascade? No. They are two separate waterfalls on the same trail, in the same valley, within the Tendon commune. The Grande Cascade is much taller (around 32 metres) and better known, while the Petite Cascade is a smaller, quieter waterfall located further along the route.

How tall is the Petite Cascade de Tendon? Sources give figures of roughly 5 to 7 metres — a small, intimate waterfall compared with the Grande Cascade.

How long does it take to reach the Petite Cascade? From the car park at the Grande Cascade, it takes about 30 minutes through the Bois de Crostille forest, followed by the Faing Janel path.

Is the walk suitable for children? Yes, it is considered an easy, family-friendly walk, though the forest sections can have exposed roots and damp ground.

Can both waterfalls be visited on the same walk? Yes — this is the most common approach. A roughly 3-kilometre loop connects the two cascades, and a longer circuit of about 8 kilometres starting from the village of Tendon is also available for those wanting a fuller day out.