The best cycling routes around Black Forest
4.8
(22)
839
riders
58
rides
Touring cycling around Black Forest offers diverse landscapes across southwest Germany, characterized by varied topography. The region features dense forests, panoramic plateaus, forested peaks, and romantic valleys, with routes often following rushing rivers and picturesque lakes. Cyclists encounter significant elevation changes, from gentle eastern slopes to steeply falling terrain in the west, alongside dramatic gorges and cascading waterfalls. This extensive network provides a range of terrains suitable for different fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Black Forest
- The most popular touring cycling route is Pineries Trail, an 8.3 miles (13.3 km) trail that takes 54 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle ride through forested areas.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Black Forest Section 16 Loop Trail, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This trail provides a scenic loop with minimal elevation gain, suitable for relaxed cycling.
- Local touring cyclists also love the John Venezia Community Park & Cottonwood Creek Park loop via Mary Kyer Park, a 22.2 miles (35.7 km) trail leading through varied parkland, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Black Forest is defined by dense forests, panoramic plateaus, and picturesque glacial lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from gentle slopes to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Black Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 800 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Black Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.0
(1)
71
riders
13.3km
00:54
130m
130m
Enjoy an easy 8.3-mile touring cycling loop on the Pineries Trail, winding through forests and meadows with views of Pikes Peak.
13
riders
6.47km
00:37
60m
60m
Cycle the easy Black Forest Section 16 Loop Trail, a 4.0-mile (6.5 km) gravel path through pine forests with views of Pikes Peak.
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2
riders
Embark on a touring bicycle adventure through the John Venezia Community Park & Cottonwood Creek Park loop, a moderate 22.2 miles (35.7 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, gaining 1132 feet (345 metres) in elevation as you pedal through a mix of developed parkland and natural beauty. Enjoy sweeping vistas of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains, particularly from John Venezia Community Park. The trail also guides you along Cottonwood Creek, offering a pleasant environment, and through Mary Kyer Park, where a serene pond and soothing waterfall provide a peaceful highlight. Expect varied terrain, including paved paths, rugged gravel, dirt trails, and even some singletrack sections, making for an engaging ride.
When planning your visit, be aware that the route features mixed surfaces. While much of the trail is smooth, you will encounter unpaved sections, including rugged gravel, dirt trails, and some singletrack along Cottonwood Creek. You might need to dismount and push your touring bicycle on certain off-road segments. Ensure your bike is well-suited for these diverse conditions to fully enjoy the journey.
This loop offers a unique blend of urban park amenities and natural creek-side environments. As you traverse the route, you might spot ducks and geese near the serene pond in Mary Kyer Park. The trail's path along Cottonwood Creek provides a refreshing natural corridor, contrasting with the more developed park areas. This combination makes the route a distinctive option for touring cyclists seeking varied scenery and terrain.
5.33km
00:33
100m
100m
Easy 3.3-mile touring cycling loop in Fox Run Regional Park, offering scenic views of Pikes Peak and Aspen Lake.
5.0
(1)
39
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Go early to get a parking spot around Palmer Lake.
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Anyone know when AF will open up the portion of Santa Fe Trail?
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Beware Of Geese, great spot to relax with some shade. It's a very heavily traveled trail so keep speeds down if biking.
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This 417-acre park offers 4 miles of trails, open fields with playgrounds, two lakes, and a gazebo where you might witness a wedding ceremony taking place. Due to receiving more snow than other parts of the Colorado Springs area, it's a great spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
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Flowing 27.2 miles from Monument to Fountain through the entire Colorado Springs area and along I-25, this point provides a nice view of the creek and a small waterfall.
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This point along the trail provides peaceful views of Monument Creek as it crosses a small bridge.
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This park features a serene pond with a soothing waterfall, where you're likely to spot ducks and geese. It also offers amenities such as a basketball court, tennis court, and open green space.
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This 6 mile long trail of paved concert runs along Cottonwood Creek and passing by Cottonwood Creek Park. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Front Range.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Black Forest?
The Black Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Black Forest touring cycling routes?
The Black Forest features a diverse topography. You'll find routes transitioning from gentle eastern slopes with rounded hills to deeply incised, steeply falling terrain in the west, offering significant elevation changes. Many routes follow picturesque river valleys, pass by glacial lakes, and wind through dense coniferous forests.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is enjoyable for touring cycling from spring through autumn. Summer offers lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for exploring lakes and waterfalls. Spring and autumn provide cooler weather and beautiful seasonal foliage, making for pleasant rides through the forests and valleys.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Black Forest has numerous easy touring cycling routes. Approximately 20 routes are classified as easy, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Pineries Trail, which offers a gentle ride through scenic landscapes.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Black Forest offers routes with significant elevation changes, particularly in the western parts of the region. There are 7 routes classified as difficult, providing demanding ascents and exhilarating descents through varied terrain.
Can I find routes that pass by scenic lakes in the Black Forest?
Yes, the Black Forest is home to several picturesque glacial lakes like Titisee, Mummelsee, and Feldsee. While our specific routes may not directly feature all of them, you can find routes that pass near beautiful water features. For instance, the Aspen Lake and Gazebo is a lovely spot to visit, and the North Pond offers a tranquil setting.
Are there touring cycling routes that feature waterfalls?
While specific routes may not be dedicated solely to waterfalls, the Black Forest is renowned for its impressive cascades. The Triberg Waterfalls, Todtnau Waterfall, and All Saints Waterfalls are notable natural attractions in the region. Many trails in the area offer close-up views of these natural spectacles, providing stunning backdrops for your ride.
What landmarks or viewpoints can I explore along the touring cycling routes?
The Black Forest is rich in natural landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You can explore impressive gorges like the Wutach Gorge or the Ravenna Gorge, which often feature historical elements. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Pulpit Rock for panoramic views, or cycling along the New Sante Fe Regional Trail for a scenic experience.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in the Black Forest?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Black Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Black Forest Section 16 Loop Trail, which offers a convenient circular journey through the region's landscapes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's varied topography, from gentle hills to challenging ascents, and the serene experience of cycling through dense coniferous forests and along picturesque river valleys. The charming towns and natural attractions also contribute to a memorable touring experience.
Are there amenities like cafes or places to rest along the routes?
Yes, as you cycle through the Black Forest, you'll encounter charming towns and villages that offer excellent stopping points for refreshments and to experience local culture. Many routes pass through areas with cafes and accommodations. For example, the Criterium Bike Shop and Crit Cafe is a great spot to refuel.
Are there routes that are suitable for bikepacking or multi-day tours?
The Black Forest is well-suited for bikepacking and multi-day touring. Its extensive network of trails and charming towns provide opportunities for longer journeys, such as routes from Karlsruhe to Freudenstadt or across the Black Forest to Lake Constance. The varied terrain ensures a dynamic and engaging experience over multiple days.
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