The best cycling routes around Interlaken
49
riders
9
rides
Touring cycling around Interlaken is characterized by its location on a flat alluvial plain between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, with the Aare River connecting the two. The region is flanked by the Bernese Alps, including peaks like Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and features the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Landscapes range from high plateaus and forests to alpine meadows, offering varied terrain for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes around Interlaken
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cascade Springs – Deer Creek Overlook loop from Interlaken, a 33.7 miles (54.2 km) trail that takes 4 hours 9 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Heber City loop from Heber Valley Railroad Depot, a difficult 39.0 miles (62.8 km) path. This route offers a challenging ride with substantial climbs and scenic views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Empire Pass Climb from Midway – Empire Pass Viewpoint loop from Midway, a 18.7 miles (30.1 km) trail leading through mountainous landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 33 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Interlaken is defined by turquoise lakes, towering alpine peaks, and lush valleys. The network offers options for challenging rides with significant elevation changes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 50 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Interlaken's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
11
riders
62.8km
05:30
1,440m
1,440m
This Heber City loop from Heber Valley Railroad Depot is a demanding touring cycling route that promises a true test of endurance amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. As you tackle the significant climbs and descents, you'll be rewarded with expansive views, especially from high points like the Deer Creek Overlook and the Alpine Summit. It's a journey through rugged terrain that truly showcases the dramatic backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains.
Starting from the Heber Valley Railroad Depot, this difficult 39.0-mile (62.8 km) ride with 4709 feet (1435 metres) of elevation gain requires very good fitness and typically takes around 5 hours and 29 minutes. Plan to carry plenty of water and prepare for direct sun exposure, as much of the route is open. The best time to cycle is during the warmer months when the mountain passes are clear of snow.
This route stands out as a rigorous challenge for touring cyclists, offering a much more strenuous experience than the easier Heber Valley Loop. It's designed for those who seek long-distance touring adventures and want to push their limits while soaking in the vast, open landscapes of Utah's mountain country.
11
riders
30.1km
02:33
1,020m
1,020m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
riders
51.7km
03:58
1,340m
1,340m
This difficult 32.1-mile (51.7 km) touring cycling route, taking around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete, offers 4391 feet (1338 metres) of climbing through the majestic Wasatch Front mountains. You'll experience lush alpine landscapes, expansive views of Deer Creek Reservoir, and the unique terraced pools of Cascade Springs, making it a visually rich and physically demanding ride. The route is renowned for its picturesque scenery, especially in the fall when the leaves change color.
When planning your visit, be aware of a potential 5-mile section of "broken pavement" that transitions to "loose gravel" on Old State Road 220 during the descent back to Midway. Touring cyclists can opt for an out-and-back, or use Stringtown Road, Tate Lane, and Route 113 to bypass the gravel. The fall season is particularly recommended for the vibrant foliage, though the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, often incorporated into longer rides here, can have seasonal closures due to snow.
Beyond the challenging climbs and stunning vistas, the Cascade Springs area itself is a highlight, featuring a large artesian spring with naturally formed cascades and pools, easily explored via boardwalks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer, moose, and elk. This route offers a true taste of Utah's mountainous terrain and natural beauty, making it one of the best touring cycling routes Midway Utah has to offer for those seeking a significant adventure.
8
riders
141km
10:33
3,270m
3,270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
21.6km
01:55
810m
810m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is the highest point of the Alpine Scenic Highway—meaning if you’ve made it here, it’s time to enjoy the downhill ahead. Nearby, you’ll find access to several trails, including Willow Hollow Trail, Horse Flat Trail, Ridge Trail, and Lame Hollow Trail.
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Guardsman Pass is a tough but unforgettable climb—steep grades, tight switchbacks, and big elevation gain. The views from the top, at nearly 9,700 feet, are worth every pedal stroke. Expect light traffic on weekdays and smooth pavement for a fast, fun descent.
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Climbing Empire Pass westwards from Midway on the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway offers a challenging but scenic ascent into Utah's Wasatch Mountains. Prepare for approximately 11-12 miles of sustained climbing, gaining over 3,000ft to reach the 8,740ft summit. The main climb averages around 5-6%, but features steeper sections, particularly on the initial winding climb out of Midway and in the final push towards the pass, where gradients can reach 8-10%. Along the way you'll enjoy the transition from aspen forests to stunning alpine meadows as you approach the top.
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The Dimple Dell East Trail offers a captivating view of the Wasatch Range, adorned with iconic peaks like Lone Peak and Twin Peaks. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Dimple Dell Regional Park, visitors can relish the scenic vistas and appreciate the prominent geological features that define this Utah landscape.
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Heber City is the gateway to several parks, national forests and nature areas in Utah, so it is a great place to start a ride. The city was first settled in 1859, and it still has several historic buildings that you can visit.
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From this point, you can take the trail that, with a short, easy walk, will lead you through this area bathed by an artesian spring that forms terraced cascades and pools. You'll need to hop off the bike to explore it, but there is a parking area next to the trailhead.
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At this viewpoint, on one side of Cascade Springs Drive, you'll enjoy incredible scenic views. The best time to visit it is in the fall, when you can see the different colors of the leaves as they change.
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The Dimple Dell East Trailhead car park offers a captivating view of the Wasatch Range, adorned with iconic peaks like Lone Peak and Twin Peaks. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Dimple Dell Regional Park, visitors can relish the scenic vistas and appreciate the prominent geological features that define this Utah landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Interlaken?
There are 8 touring cycling routes around Interlaken documented on komoot. These routes are generally considered difficult, offering significant elevation changes and challenging terrain for experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Interlaken?
Interlaken's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, ranging from flat alluvial plains between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun to challenging ascents into the Bernese Alps. You'll encounter high plateaus, lush forests, and alpine meadows, often with substantial elevation gains.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Interlaken?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Interlaken are designed as loops. For example, the Cascade Springs – Deer Creek Overlook loop from Interlaken is a challenging 54.2 km circular route, and the Heber City loop from Heber Valley Railroad Depot offers another demanding circular option.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
While the touring cycling routes themselves offer stunning natural views of the Bernese Alps and the lakes, you can also explore nearby attractions. Highlights include the challenging Big Cottonwood Climb, the scenic Jupiter Peak, and the impressive Guardsman Pass. The region is also known for the Lauterbrunnen Valley with its 72 waterfalls, and charming lakeside villages.
Are there any routes that offer views of the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks?
Yes, the region's proximity to the Bernese Alps means many routes offer spectacular views of these iconic peaks. While specific komoot touring cycling routes listed here focus on other areas, the broader Interlaken region, particularly routes heading towards Grindelwald, provides excellent vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
What is the longest touring cycling route available in Interlaken?
The longest touring cycling route currently listed is the Horse Flat Trail – Dimple Dell East Trail loop from Heber Valley Railroad Depot, which spans 141.5 km and involves over 3,200 meters of elevation gain, typically taking over 10 hours to complete.
Can I rent bikes or e-bikes in Interlaken?
Yes, Interlaken is well-equipped for cyclists. You can easily find places to rent modern bicycles or e-bikes, which can be particularly helpful for tackling the region's ascents and covering more ground at a relaxed pace.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Interlaken?
Interlaken benefits from a consistent mild climate due to its location between the lakes, extending the season for outdoor pursuits. Spring through autumn generally offers the most favorable weather for touring cycling, allowing you to enjoy the diverse landscapes without the challenges of winter conditions.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes?
Absolutely. Interlaken is situated between the emerald-green Lake Brienz and the crystal-clear Lake Thun. Many routes, such as the Bödeli-Route, guide cyclists to experience both lakes and the Aare River that connects them, offering stunning lakeside panoramas.
What is the elevation gain like on these routes?
The touring cycling routes around Interlaken are characterized by significant elevation changes. For instance, the Empire Pass Climb from Midway – Empire Pass Viewpoint loop from Midway involves over 1,000 meters of ascent, while the Horse Flat Trail – Dimple Dell East Trail loop from Heber Valley Railroad Depot features over 3,200 meters of climbing.
What do other touring cyclists say about Interlaken's routes?
The komoot community frequently praises the challenging nature and stunning scenery of Interlaken's touring cycling routes. Cyclists often highlight the rewarding climbs and the breathtaking views of the alpine peaks and turquoise lakes as key attractions.
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