Set up along the Durolle, a circuit offers visitors the opportunity to dip into the history of the old paper mills, tanneries, cutlery works etc, trades in which Thiers is renowned for its expertise. The descent is covered on foot, with the return part of the itinerary back to the town centre possible by tourist train or on the local rail network (TUT). In season, the Vallée des Usines is illuminated in the evening.