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Routes
MTB trails
Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Kreis Steinfurt

Ems

The best MTB trails around the Ems

4.5

(1116)

4,401

riders

734

rides

Mountain biking around the Ems offers diverse terrain characterized by gently rolling hills, vast fields, and extensive networks of paths. The region features a tranquil landscape with moors, heathlands, and forests, often crisscrossed by rivers like the Ems and Hase. This environment provides a mix of cross-country mountain biking opportunities and routes suitable for e-biking. The Emsland region's natural parks, such as Bourtanger Moor-Veenland and Hümmling Nature Park, contribute to its varied outdoor appeal.

Best mountain bike trails around the Ems

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Lahre observation tower – Riverside Path along the Hase loop from Meppen, a 28.6 miles (46.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 58 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows a scenic riverside path along the Hase.
  • Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Doctor's Hole – Torfmoor Lake loop from Rheine, a difficult 26.4 miles (42.6 km) path. This route features a challenging ascent of 831 feet (253 meters) and explores the area around Torfmoor Lake.
  • Local mountain bikers also love the Elter Dunes – Former Fitness Trail loop from Rheine, a 28.5 miles (45.9 km) trail leading through the Elter Dunes, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
  • Mountain biking around the Ems is defined by gently rolling hills, river valleys, and diverse natural parks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging routes through varied landscapes.
  • The routes in Ems are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. More than 4,500 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Ems's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 7, 2026

4.2

(22)

60

riders

#1.

Lahre observation tower – Riverside Path along the Hase loop from Meppen

46.0km

02:58

80m

80m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Moderate

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Ems

Hiking Germany's Hermannsweg – In the footsteps of the Cheruscan

Groot Frieslandpad (LAW 14) – Right through the North of the Netherlands

LandesGartenSchau Route – Westphalian Dream Parks

Geest Cycle Route – Experience natural spaces

Germany's Westphalian City Tour — linking historic town centres

100 Castles Route – Discover the historical treasures of Münsterland by bike

Hellweg-Weser railway cycle route – Ride through western Germany

The Paderborn Land Route – 250 kilometers through the middle of Westphalia

Hase Ems route — cycling through Hasetal and Emsland in 7 stages

The Ems Cycle Route – in 7 stages from the Senne to the North Sea

Other adventures around the Ems

Hiking Germany's Hermannsweg – In the footsteps of the Cheruscan

Hiking Collection by

Anette

Tips from the Community

Eileen #NatureGirl🥾
April 20, 2026, Furlbach Valley Nature Reserve

A very beautiful area with a high recreational factor. There are small and large parking lots nearby.

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Julia K.
August 24, 2025, Lottas Café

Perfect stop for a rest. Drinks and cake/food

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Michael
August 14, 2025, Lottas Café

Open Saturday and Sunday 12:00 - 18:00

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Opening hours are Saturdays and Sundays, so unfortunately today (on Wednesday) we were standing in front of closed doors

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Beautiful and scenic route, definitely recommended.

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Unlike other cycle paths directly along the canal, this one is a great place to ride. If you get bored of it after a while, just take the next turn and cycle through nearby, quiet but very beautiful and cozy little villages.

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Andy
June 17, 2025, View of Riesenbeck

It is precisely these beautiful views that draw us out into nature, really great.

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A worthwhile destination both by bike and on foot

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around the Ems?

There are over 760 mountain bike trails available around the Ems, offering a wide variety of routes for different skill levels and preferences. The region's diverse landscape, from riverside paths to heathlands, provides ample opportunities for exploration.

What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in the Ems region?

The Ems region offers a good mix of difficulty levels. You'll find over 280 easy routes, more than 450 moderate trails, and around 30 difficult options. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced riders can find suitable challenges.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails around the Ems?

Yes, the Ems region is well-suited for family-friendly rides, particularly due to its gently rolling hills and extensive network of paths. Many of the easy and moderate routes, especially those along the rivers, are ideal for families. For example, the Ems River Riverside Path – Ems Cycle Path loop from Meppen is an easy 34.6 km route that follows the river, offering a pleasant experience for all.

Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails in the Ems region?

Many trails in the Ems region are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially those that traverse natural landscapes like forests and riverside paths. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved around other trail users and wildlife. The tranquil nature of Emsland's paths, such as the Lahre observation tower – Riverside Path along the Hase loop from Meppen, can be enjoyable for both you and your canine companion.

What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while mountain biking in Emsland?

Emsland offers a diverse and tranquil landscape. You'll encounter gently rolling hills, vast fields, moors, heathlands, and forests. The region is crisscrossed by rivers like the Ems and Hase, and features natural parks such as Bourtanger Moor-Veenland and Hümmling Nature Park, providing a colorful mosaic of natural beauty.

Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the mountain bike routes?

Yes, the Ems region is rich in natural and historical points of interest. You can explore areas like the Ems Lake or the Geeste Reservoir. Additionally, historical sites such as Haus Langen and Rheda Castle and Watermill are integrated into the landscape, offering cultural stops during your ride.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Ems?

The mountain bike trails around the Ems are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, which includes scenic riverside paths and challenging routes through diverse natural parks, as well as the overall tranquility of the region.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the Ems region?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in the Ems region are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Doctor's Hole – Torfmoor Lake loop from Rheine, a challenging 42.6 km route, or the moderate Heathland in the Elter Dünen Nature Reserve – Former Fitness Trail loop from Emsdetten.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking around the Ems?

The Ems region is enjoyable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming landscapes or colorful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, with some trails potentially being muddy or icy.

Are there any longer, more challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are more difficult and longer routes. The Malepartus Forest Inn – Bocketal Viewpoint loop from Rheine is a difficult 96.9 km trail with over 1100 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial ride through varied terrain.

How accessible are the mountain bike trails by public transport in the Ems region?

The Ems region has a well-developed public transport network, including regional trains and buses, which can provide access to various starting points for mountain bike trails. While specific routes may require a short ride from a station, the general infrastructure supports reaching many areas. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.

Where can I find parking for mountain bike trails in the Ems region?

Parking is generally available at or near the starting points of many mountain bike trails in the Ems region, especially in towns and villages. For example, routes starting from Meppen or Rheine often have designated parking areas. Some natural attractions or trailheads may also offer smaller parking facilities. Always look for official parking signs.

Most popular routes around the Ems

Traffic-free bike rides around the Ems

Most popular attractions around the Ems

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