Fontainebleau Forest reopens, climbers are back

The forest of Fontainebleau reopened to the public on Saturday, August 22, 2026, after more than a month of closure due to severe wildfires that scorched 10 percent of its area, approximately 2,000 hectares. The reopening marked a return for climbers and hikers who had been unable to access parts of the forest since July. Despite the damage, many visitors expressed relief and joy at being able to return to one of France’s most famous climbing destinations. However, safety concerns remain, with portions of the forest still closed off due to the risk of falling trees and ongoing efforts to extinguish hotspots. The fires in July left visible scars across the landscape, particularly in areas such as the Faisanderie sector, which was heavily affected. While some popular climbing spots like Franchard Isatis remained accessible, signs warning “All fires prohibited” were prominently displayed throughout the forest. These warnings reflect continued precautions taken by authorities to prevent new blazes, especially during the peak summer season when outdoor activities are common. Firefighters remained active over the weekend, conducting patrols and monitoring restricted zones to ensure public safety. Climbers were among the first to return, eager to resume their routines on the iconic sandstone blocks that define Fontainebleau’s terrain. At Franchard Isatis, a group of around 15 individuals set up their climbing gear and began scaling the rocks shortly after the forest opened. Among them was Gilles Moutounet, a 59-year-old logistics manager who spends much of his weekends climbing in the area. He described the day as a return to familiar habits, expressing satisfaction at the opportunity to reconnect with the forest. Nearby, a couple from Turin, Italy, joined the activity, having traveled specifically to experience the renowned climbing routes before their vacation ended. For many, the reopening brought both personal fulfillment and reassurance about the resilience of the region. Stefano Rosso, a 70-year-old climber from Turin, has frequented Fontainebleau’s climbing sites for three decades. Alongside his wife, he welcomed the chance to revisit the area, noting the importance of the forest not just for recreation but also for local businesses and communities. Another visitor, Sophia Pau, a 28-year-old Italian climber, shared similar sentiments, emphasizing how the reopening allowed her to see the classic climbing routes she had long anticipated. Despite the optimism, officials from the Office National des Forêts (ONF) stressed the need for caution. In sectors like Faisanderie, barriers blocked access to certain trails, and signs clearly marked “Access Prohibited.” Lucas Horenburg, a cyclist planning a route through the forest, acknowledged the uncertainty following the fires but found comfort in the swift reopening. His decision to take an alternate path highlighted the lingering risks posed by damaged infrastructure and unstable tree cover. Julien Vabre, a technician responsible for the Faisanderie area, emphasized the challenges faced by forest workers. He noted that while the reopening was necessary, it also carried the risk of renewed fire incidents, particularly from unauthorized campfires. Over the weekend, ONF staff conducted patrols to monitor restricted zones and manage the transition back to normal operations. Their presence underscored the delicate balance between restoring access and maintaining safety protocols. As visitors explored the partially restored forest, the contrast between the vibrant activity and the underlying fragility of the environment became evident. While the return of climbers and hikers signaled hope for recovery, the ongoing efforts to secure the area against further threats reminded all present of the forest’s recent trials. Authorities continue to assess the situation, ensuring that the reopened sections remain safe for future visitors.