Night Hiking and Camping Guide: Ultimate Backpacking Adventure in Fontainebleau Forest

**Total Distance:** Approximately 35 km (including a 4 km night walk on Day 1 and a 30 km trek on Day 2)
**Duration:** Around 8 hours of active hiking (rest periods excluded)
**Suitable For:** Adventurous hikers with some experience, eager to push their limits on a long-distance journey and enjoy a night under the stars.

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### 1️⃣ Itinerary

**Saturday Evening**
Kick off your adventure from Paris Gare de Lyon around 18:00 aboard the R train. Arrive at Fontainebleau-Avon Station and embark on a mystical 4 km night hike through the shadowy forest to the Bivouac Zone near Hippodrome de la Solle. The campsite buzzed with energy, dotted with camper vans and fellow explorers.

**Sunday Morning**
Rise and shine! Depart the campsite around 9:00. The initial stretch glides over gentle, flat terrain before transitioning into more demanding uphill climbs—some so steep you’ll need your hands for balance. Traverse quiet roads and hidden off-trail passages, then pass through the charming town of Samois with 8 km to go. The final leg features a scenic loop around the mountainside, culminating at Fontainebleau-Avon Station for your return to Paris.

We navigated primarily using the “Circuit des 11 mares en Forêt de Fontainebleau” route from Visorando, with a few improvisations along the way. For a seamless experience, download the map to your smartwatch beforehand. Need the GPX file? Just send me a message!

Tackling this route in a single day with a full pack is no small feat—start early if you dare. Without a car, camping the night before is your best bet. And remember: pack light, hike happy.

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### 2️⃣ Gear Checklist 🧾 (Approx. 10 kg)
➡️ *Check out the last two photos for a visual guide!* ⬅️
Every item was handpicked for minimal weight and maximum utility—nothing extra, nothing wasted.

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### 3️⃣ Important Notes ⚠️

1. **Night Hiking Caution:** My 4 km solo trek through the pitch-black forest was spine-tingling. Arrive at the campsite before sunset if possible, and never forget your headlamp—it’s a lifesaver!

2. **Winter Warmth:** Keep your head cozy with a warm hat and pack spare socks. Wet feet in cold weather are a recipe for discomfort.

3. **Timing is Everything:** Days are short in winter. Plan to exit the forest at least 30 minutes before sunset—once darkness falls, visibility vanishes and risks rise.

4. **Hydration Strategy:** If you’re cooking noodles, 2 liters of water should suffice. I carried 3 liters and finished with one to spare.

5. **Sleep Smart:** Cold-weather camping demands a reliable sleeping pad. Prioritize one with a high R-value to stay warm through the night.