Saut du Day Waterfall via Gorges de l'Orbe
Overview
Starting Point: Les Clées (580m)
End Point: Saut du Day Waterfall (650m)
Alternative Ending: Le Day (800m)
Distance: ~5 km (one way)
Estimated Time: ~1 hour to the waterfall (longer with kids)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some steep edges, narrow paths)
Family-Friendly?: Yes, with supervision in some sections
Notable Features: Scenic river views, a mysterious tunnel and a waterfall with a beach area
The Start: Les Clées to the Trailhead
This hike is a classic for families, offering beautiful scenery and a cool waterfall at the end. Plus, for me, it’s only 15 minutes from home—so I visit often!
The Gorges de l'Orbe trail runs from Orbe to Vallorbe, but the best section lies between Les Clées and Le Saut du Day. I recommend starting in Les Clées, where you’ll also find a castle with a bar—a great spot to relax post-hike.
The trailhead is located below the castle. Turn left onto a small road, passing houses and a bridge. After a few more houses, you’ll reach a parking area—the true starting point.
The Trail: Les Clées to Saut du Day Waterfall
The hike begins on a wide road that follows the river. However, soon after the parking area, a marked trail branches off to the right—this is the correct route.
First Section: Into the Woods (15 min)
Once on the trail, the terrain narrows into a scenic forest path. It’s not technically difficult, but the edges can be steep in places, so small children may need a hand.
After about 15 minutes, you’ll reach old tunnels, a fun highlight for kids. From here, the trail continues through dense woods, staying high above the river.
Middle Section: River Crossings & Dams (30 min)
Around the 40-minute mark, you arrive at a wide section of the river featuring a small dam. The trail leads across it, providing a fantastic viewpoint of the rushing waters.
Just 5 minutes later, you reach a wooden bridge, crossing to the opposite side of the river. Now, the final stretch follows a peaceful canal path, running close to the water’s edge.
Final Section: The Waterfall (15 min)
After another 15 minutes, you reach the Saut du Day Waterfall. Before the falls, there’s a beach area, ideal for barbecues or picnics.
This place has a unique charm due to remnants of old mining installations, now in semi-ruin. A particularly interesting feature is a tunnel that runs beneath the waterfall. If you pass through, you’ll find a way to walk above the falls.
The Return Journey: Three Options
Once at the waterfall, you can return via the same path or explore alternative routes:
Return to Les Clées (recommended if you parked there).
Hike to Le Day Train Station (800m, ~30 min)
Option 1: Through the tunnel and up a wide but steep path.
Option 2: Follow the right bank of the river, an adventurous trail featuring a narrow gorge and a dam crossing.
Start from Le Day instead
If you prefer a loop, you can begin at Le Day, hike down to the waterfall, pass through the tunnel, and return via the dam. This version takes a little over 1 hour.
Final Thoughts
This hike combines stunning natural scenery, historical elements, and a fun waterfall at the end. Whether you take the classic route from Les Clées or mix it up with the Le Day loop, it’s a fantastic family-friendly adventure with just the right touch of excitement!
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