The climb to the Grand Ballon from the northwest can be divided into two parts, namely the route from the Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein to Le Markstein and the continuation on the Route des Crètes to the Grand Ballon. The first part is ideal for racing cyclists, who like a wide road with has such a gentle slope (average 4.2%) that it takes a long time to bridge the difference in altitude. Yet, this part begins with the steepest kilometer of the entire ride (9.1%). The road runs continuously through the forest until, after cycling more than 12 kilometers, one enters into a more open landscape so one gets the reward of views of the neighboring mountains. Many paragliders start their flights here. The second part of the ride, which takes place on the Route des Crètes, offers many views and is easy. The first 6 kilometers run almost horizontally. Only the last, 1400 meter long section from le Haag to the destination of the climb is somewhat harder with a gradient of 7-9%.