4.6
(384)
1,647
riders
214
rides
Mountain biking around Erlauf, located in Lower Austria, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The region is characterized by the scenic Erlauf River, which flows through valleys and gorges, and the picturesque Erlaufsee. Surrounded by the Nibelungengau, the landscape features a mix of riverine paths, rolling hills, and forested areas, providing varied routes for mountain bikers.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5
riders
56.3km
04:27
870m
870m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2
riders
45.3km
03:29
810m
810m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Sign up for free
4
riders
15.8km
01:07
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
21.4km
01:40
240m
240m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
32.8km
02:12
260m
260m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A great Danube crossing for cyclists, the left-bank ascent/descent is very elaborate. Perfect for all types of bicycles to get onto the bridge.
0
0
Today, Pöchlarn is an exciting mix of a highly modern logistics center on the Danube and a town that traces its roots back to Roman times. Long before the Nibelungs passed through the town, Pöchlarn was an important Roman base called Arelape. It was a fort directly on the Danube Limes. A part of the Roman Danube fleet was stationed here. During excavations in the town area (especially in the area of the church), ancient finds have been made again and again, proving how strategically important this place was even 2,000 years ago.
0
0
Pöchlarn is a town with an extremely deep history that goes far beyond the townscape of today. It is located in the Melk district on the southern bank of the Danube and is often referred to as the "Nibelungen City". Pöchlarn is inextricably linked to the Nibelungenlied, the famous medieval epic. In the city center you will find the modern Nibelungen monument with the coats of arms of the cities that appear in the epic. It is a must for a photo when you are in town.
0
0
Many beautiful hiking trails start here 🤗
0
0
Beautifully maintained hiking trail. TIP: Great for a spring or autumn hike; in summer you're exposed to a lot of sun. 🤗
0
0
Rüdiger von Bechelaren – an information board tells his story. Right next to it is the drinking water dispenser.
0
0
There are over 200 mountain bike routes around Erlauf, catering to various skill levels. This includes 36 easy routes, 165 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes, ensuring a diverse range of options for every rider.
Yes, Erlauf offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or family outings. An excellent option is the Danube Cycle Path – Melk Abbey loop from Pöchlarn, an easy 27.3 km route that takes about 1 hour 29 minutes, offering scenic views along the river. Another easy choice is the Cyclist rest area – Maria Taferl Church loop from Pöchlarn, which is 30.8 km long and takes around 1 hour 43 minutes.
Mountain biking around Erlauf features diverse terrain, from riverine paths along the Erlauf River and the Danube to rolling hills and forested areas. You'll find routes connecting to the Danube and Ötscherland cycle paths, offering a mix of flat sections and more challenging climbs through the surrounding landscape.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Erlauf offers difficult routes with significant elevation gain. A notable option is the Pöchlarn Danube Bridge – Emmersdorf Church loop from Pöchlarn, a demanding 75.0 km path with substantial ascents and varied terrain, typically taking around 4 hours 59 minutes to complete.
The region boasts several natural and historical highlights. You can enjoy views of the impressive Melk Abbey from the Danube cycle path, or admire the View of Maria Taferl. The Erlauf River itself flows through the scenic Erlauf Gorge, known for its clear, turquoise waters. The picturesque Erlaufsee, ideal for swimming and boating, is also nearby. The region is part of the Nibelungengau, offering expansive views and diverse landscapes.
Yes, many mountain bike trails around Erlauf are designed as circular or loop routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Danube Cycle Path – Melk Abbey loop from Pöchlarn and the Pöchlarn Danube Bridge – View of Maria Taferl loop from Pöchlarn, a moderate 33.0 km route.
The mountain bike trails in Erlauf are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic river valleys, and the well-connected network of paths that offer options for all ability levels. The combination of natural beauty, such as the Erlaufsee and the Danube, with varied cycling experiences is frequently highlighted.
Erlauf and its surrounding areas, particularly Pöchlarn, offer good access for cyclists using public transport. The region is well-connected, and many routes, including those along the Danube Cycle Path, are accessible from train stations, making it convenient to reach trailheads without a car.
The best time for mountain biking in Erlauf is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is most favorable, and the natural landscapes, including the Erlauf River and surrounding forests, are at their most vibrant. The Erlaufsee is also enjoyable for water activities during the warmer months.
Yes, the region offers stunning vistas. From the Eichberg chapel, you can get expansive views of the Erlauf valley, the Nibelungengau, the Wachau, and the Ötscherland. The nearby Mariazeller Bürgeralpe also provides panoramic views. Specific highlights like the View of Maria Taferl from the Danube cycle path and the View of Melk Abbey from the Danube cycle path are popular spots.
While specific cafes or accommodation directly on every trail are not detailed, the municipality of Erlauf and nearby towns within the Nibelungengau region offer various facilities. You'll find options for refreshments and lodging, especially in larger settlements like Ybbs and Melk, which are often connected by the cycling network.
Yes, the region is home to several natural monuments. The Erlauf Gorge near Purgstall an der Erlauf has been recognized as a natural monument since 1972, celebrated for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. Other natural highlights include the Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument and Rogelstein.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.