The stunning Jura Mountains, who are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbors to the south, offer an exceptional opportunity for trail runners seeking both challenge and authenticity.

For the most part, summer is over. For many, this is not a reason to celebrate. But for those partial to running, autumn, the promise of winter and eventually spring signal a return to training and a welcome break from the heat and humidity. For those who live in Geneva and the surrounding area, the Jura Mountains offer an environment that is hard to beat when it comes to running.

Throughout these delightful twists and turns, there are about 5,000 km of marked routes, which stretch across France, Switzerland, and eventually into southwest Germany. For runners of all levels, this mountain range presents an opportunity to traverse an endless encyclopedia of quiet, unspoiled trails with superb variety. And what’s better, it’s free. No yoga mat, no contracts, no triple-distilled protein shakes—it is fitness in its rawest truest sense.

For anyone with an interest in the outdoor fitness game, these mountains offer a real sense of freedom and remoteness. With just over 400,000 people scattered across the French side and about 150,000 in the Swiss part, this quiet little haven of tranquillity is a poster child for good trail running in a natural environment. The area is also less frequented by tourists compared to more famous mountain ranges like the Alps. According to regional tourism statistics, the Jura receives around 1.5 million visitors annually, significantly fewer than the Alps, which see tens of millions each year. This lower volume of visitors helps maintain its calm and undisturbed environment.

While you might very well find yourself alone, particularly on the less well-trodden paths, you will never be bored. As well as the endless physical challenges, these mountains are home to more than 70 types of mammals, 1,500 types of plants, and 200 species of birds. With a keen eye, you may also find ammonites, spiral-shelled marine molluscs, and other small fossils left over from the Jurassic period.

When it comes to trail selection, the choices are incredible. If you’re up for it, you can start from one of the villages and wiggle your way up through forests and a maze of single-track paths. Obviously, some ascents are more challenging than others, but at no point is climbing in the traditional sense required. While the terrain can be demanding, especially in harsh weather, the Jura’s elevations are manageable without the need for altitude readiness or much in the way of technical equipment.

There are, however, a few risks to consider. Hunters need little in the way of introduction. They like to find and shoot at animals but sometimes miss. Accidents can and have happened. Avoid hunts. Then there are the Great Pyrenees dogs—fierce protectors of their fluffy flocks of friends. These large, intimidating dogs are more than capable of scaring off big mammals, including unsuspecting tourists or trail runners. Generally, they’re fine, but respect their space and calmly move toward your nearest exit. Falling rocks, avalanches, holes in the limestone and cliffs are, of course, something to bear in mind too, particularly in low visibility or stormy conditions.

There is a supportive and enthusiastic trail running community in and around the Jura Mountains, including a good selection of running clubs within a hop, skip and jump of Geneva, each welcoming runners of all abilities. Making the most of these mountains need not be a one-person activity. Clubs include the Gex-based CRAPAST and Divonne Running associations, among several others. Both train on Wednesday evenings and offer outings – some social, some difficult – over the weekends, regardless of experience or fitness level.

While the seasons may change, the Jura Mountains won’t. So, while summers’ end might feel like it’s time to retreat inside to treadmills or to gyms to pick up heavy things and put them back down again, it really doesn’t have to be. Instead, it marks the beginning of eight or nine months of something far more holistic and authentic. Enjoy the crisp outside air, the autumn foliage, the cold winter trails and the resurgence of early spring. The Jura Mountains are truly a unique and constant gift to those within their reach. Enjoy them.