All open-air sports can be practised in the Cévennes. In the Park’s central zone, certain activities are regulated, notably canyoning, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, rock climbing, etc. Others are banned: motorised sports, flyovers at below 1,000 metres, off-piste mountain biking, snowmobiles, etc. In all cases, the environment, private property and other users of the protected area must be respected.
The regulations
In the Park’s central zone (also called protection zone), regulations apply to ensure that fragile species and their habitats are preserved. The Cévennes central zone covers 93,500 hectares. Pictograms on documents and signs serve as a reminder of these strictly enforced rules. Violations may be punishable with fines of up to 1,500 euros. Sworn-in environmental agents, the Park rangers, enforce the regulations and give tickets to those who break the law.
Marking of paths
The marking of paths within the Park’s central zone follows the graphical ground rules laid down for all French National Parks. Signs are rectangular and yellow, with indications engraved on them.
Wooden post help the signs blend into their natural surroundings. In the membership zone, the norms set by the county councils of Lozère, Gard or Ardèche apply.