The best cycling routes in Harzwald
4.6
(2167)
10,760
riders
586
rides
Touring cycling in Harzwald offers a diverse landscape characterized by its low mountain range, dense forests, and extensive trail network. The region features a mix of beech and spruce forests, picturesque mountain ranges, and well-preserved moorlands, particularly in the Oberharz. Numerous lakes and watercourses, such as the Okerstausee, provide scenic routes. Cyclists can expect varied terrain, including forest paths, gravel roads, and old railway tracks.
Best touring cycling routes in Harzwald
- The most popular touring cycling route is Wooden Bridge…
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.5
(4)
29
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(12)
65
riders
33.3km
02:11
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(9)
31
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
27
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
17
riders
35.5km
02:18
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Waldschenke - Good refreshment stop at the reservoir 🌊 - Schömberg - Zollernalbkreis
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also known as Schömberger Stausee, mostly just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6 ha Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl nature reserve surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end and has an area of 10.4 ha at 643.8 m above sea level (NHN), begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of about 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, already over 11 km long at its mouth, contributes almost 90%. The watercourses Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left, which are up to 1.2 km long, flow into it from the sides. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the builder of the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam structure is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay called Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also Schömberger Stausee, usually just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6-hectare Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl landscape protection area surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end, with an area of 10.4 hectares at 643.8 m above sea level, begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of approximately 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, which is already over 11 km long at the inflow, contributes almost 90%. The Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and the Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left flow into it. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) based in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the client for the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay, the Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
3
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A beautiful fishing lake and a place to rest
5
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The Schenkenberger Bridge was beautifully built...
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Schömberger Reservoir
1
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In summer, it's often used for swimming and relaxing! But it's also beautiful any time of year.
6
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Harzwald?
Harzwald offers a vast network of touring cycling routes, with over 590 trails to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Harzwald?
The Harzwald region is characterized by its diverse terrain, featuring dense beech and spruce forests, picturesque mountain ranges, and well-preserved moorlands. You'll encounter a mix of forest paths, gravel roads, and even old railway tracks. While some areas, particularly in the Oberharz, have significant gradients and narrow, rooty trails, you can also find less strenuous, balanced routes in the Harz fringe region and valleys.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Harzwald?
Yes, Harzwald offers a good selection of easier routes. There are 170 routes classified as easy, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. One example is the View of Kreuzberg – Insect Hotel Sculpture loop from VVG der Stadt Oberndorf am Neckar, which is 7.8 miles (12.5 km) long with minimal elevation gain.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along the touring cycling routes?
Harzwald's touring cycling routes often lead through stunning natural landscapes and past interesting landmarks. You can discover dense forests, picturesque mountain ranges, and numerous lakes and watercourses like the Okerstausee. Highlights include the Harzwald Nature Discovery Trail, the Forest Memorial at the Harzwald Arboretum, and various scenic viewpoints. The region is also home to fascinating rock formations like the Teufelsmauer.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Harzwald?
Many touring cycling routes in Harzwald are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the popular Wooden Bridge Over the Neckar – View of Kreuzberg loop from VVG der Stadt Oberndorf am Neckar is a 10.1-mile (16.2 km) circular route offering views of the Neckar river. Another option is the View of the Eschach River – Milk House Stetten loop from Bösingen, a moderate 20.7-mile (33.3 km) path.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Harzwald?
The Harzwald region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,800 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscape, the extensive network of trails, and the opportunity to experience both challenging mountain terrain and more relaxed, scenic rides through forests and past lakes.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or water bodies?
Absolutely. The Harz is dotted with numerous lakes and watercourses, providing beautiful scenery for cyclists. Routes often lead alongside gently babbling brooks, glistening lakes like the Okerstausee and Granetalsperre, and historically significant ponds such as the Wiesenbeker Teich. The Schömberg reservoir – Schömberg Reservoir loop from Epfendorf is a great example of a route featuring a significant water body.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Harzwald?
The Harz Mountains are appealing for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly inviting due to the extensive beech forests, which offer vibrant colors. While higher altitudes feature spruce forests and moorlands, providing unique habitats, the region generally offers fresh air and beautiful natural impressions from spring through early autumn. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can be challenging, especially at higher elevations.
Are there any facilities like barbecue huts or playgrounds along the routes?
Yes, you can find facilities like barbecue huts and playgrounds along some routes, making them ideal for family outings. For example, the Harzwaldhütte Playground & Barbecue Area and the Hofbosch Hut with Playground and Barbecue Area are popular spots. The Teufensee – Teufensee Pond with barbecue hut loop from Bösingen specifically highlights a route passing by such a facility.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the Harzwald region, being a low mountain range, offers numerous opportunities for panoramic views. The highest peak, Brocken Mountain (1,142 meters), provides extensive vistas and is accessible via hiking trails, though some cycling routes in the higher altitudes will offer similar expansive views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes in Harzwald?
The routes in Harzwald vary significantly in distance and duration. You can find shorter rides like the View of Kreuzberg – Insect Hotel Sculpture loop from VVG der Stadt Oberndorf am Neckar, which is about 7.8 miles (12.5 km) and takes less than an hour. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Schömberg reservoir – Schömberg Reservoir loop from Epfendorf, can be around 22 miles (35.5 km) and take over two hours to complete, depending on your pace and the elevation.
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