The best gravel rides around Schmalfeld
4.4
(46)
153
riders
26
rides
Gravel biking around Schmalfeld offers a diverse landscape characterized by heathlands, nature reserves, and forested areas. The region features a network of trails that often follow river courses like the Schmalfelder Au, providing varied terrain for gravel cyclists. Elevations are generally gentle, with some routes featuring rolling hills rather than steep climbs. This area is suitable for exploring natural environments on two wheels.
Best gravel bike trails around Schmalfeld
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Wittenborner Heath – EBOE…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
3.0
(1)
27
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
15
riders
71.4km
04:04
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(4)
11
riders
52.6km
03:17
190m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
14
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
12
riders
55.7km
03:12
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Now and then you pass old railway operating buildings and facilities, such as loading and unloading ramps or the old Grabau station.
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Wittmoor is one of the most beautiful areas here in Hamburg for cycling. You feel like you are in the heath. The paths seem very sandy, but are all good to cycle on. Have fun and watch out for all other hikers/cyclists.
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Great track plate path, coming from Hennstedt towards Wiedenborstel just let it roll.
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The path where the marker is located is actually one of the wider paths in this part of the Barker Heide. (The photos also show the surrounding paths.)
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Particularly beautiful in western sunshine…
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The Kupferteich (Copper Pond) on the border of the Hamburg districts of Poppenbüttel and Lemsahl-Mellingstedt was originally a mill pond and served as a copper mill. It is easily circumnavigated by bike or on foot. It was created by damming the Mellingbek and Twelenbek rivers, which flow from the Wittmoor and join in front of the pond, to a height of approximately 900 meters. In the mill at the Kupferteich, a copper hammer was used to produce panels for roofs, ship floors, and boilers for sugar refineries. Remains of fish ponds can be found at the northern end of the Kupferteich. In the mid-19th century, the Kupferteich became a sawmill, later an oil mill, after which the facility fell into disuse. Due to its dilapidated condition, it was demolished in 1929. The Kupferteich is now an approximately 7.0-hectare fishing lake, and since 2019, it, including its shoreline, has been designated a specially protected biotope area under the Federal Nature Conservation Act. A golf course has stretched east and west of the Kupferteich since the 21st century. There is a dog walking area on the western shore of the pond. Access to the Kupferteich is via the 1.5 km long Kupferteichweg, a road that leads to a sandy path leading to the pond. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kupferteich_(Mellingbek)
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The paths to the Stör are all beautiful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Schmalfeld?
There are over 50 gravel bike routes around Schmalfeld, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 17 easy, 27 moderate, and 8 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Schmalfeld?
Yes, Schmalfeld offers several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. One such route is the Hunter's Bridge (Schmalfelder Au) – Schmalfelder Au Stone Bridge loop from Bad Bramstedt, which is a manageable 19.8 km (12.3 miles) and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete, following riverine landscapes.
Can I find longer gravel bike routes, for example around 50km, in Schmalfeld?
Absolutely. For longer rides, consider the Barker Heide Nature Reserve – Beautiful Beech Forest loop from Kaltenkirchen, which is 53.7 km (33.4 miles) long. Another option is the Boxberg Summit View – View from Boxberg loop from Bad Bramstedt, covering 55.7 km (34.6 miles).
What is the typical duration for gravel bike rides in Schmalfeld?
Ride durations vary depending on the route and your pace. Shorter, easy trails like the Hunter's Bridge loop can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Wittenborner Heath – EBOE Trail Gravel Path loop (71.5 km), typically take around 4 hours.
Are there challenging gravel bike routes in Schmalfeld?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Schmalfeld has 8 difficult gravel bike routes. A notable one is the Barker Heide Nature Reserve – Beautiful Beech Forest loop from Kaltenkirchen, which offers a demanding yet scenic experience through dense beech forests.
What can I see along the gravel bike trails in Schmalfeld?
The trails often pass through heathlands, nature reserves, and along river courses like the Schmalfelder Au. You can discover highlights such as the EBOE Rail Trail, the Kaltenkirchener Heide East Entrance, and the Source of the Pinnau. There are also interesting bridges like the Königsbrücke Schmalfeld.
Are there any scenic viewpoints along the gravel bike routes?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. You can find views from the Boxberg Summit View route. Additionally, the Hasenmoor Observation Tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Schmalfeld?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, including heathlands, nature reserves, and forested river valleys, as well as the varied terrain suitable for different ability levels.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available in Schmalfeld?
Most gravel bike routes in Schmalfeld are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wittenborner Heath – EBOE Trail Gravel Path loop and the Scenic Forest Path – View of Kaltenkirchener Heide loop.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Schmalfeld?
The region is generally pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn, when the heathlands are in bloom and the forests offer good cover. While routes are accessible year-round, winter conditions can bring mud or occasional frost, so checking local weather and trail conditions is advisable.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Schmalfeld?
Many routes start from towns like Kaltenkirchen or Bad Bramstedt, which typically offer public parking facilities. For specific trailheads, it's recommended to check the individual route details on komoot, as they often include information on starting points and nearby parking options.
Are there any nature reserves to explore by gravel bike?
Yes, the region is rich in nature reserves. The Barker Heide Nature Reserve is a prominent feature on one of the challenging routes. You can also find the Henstedter Moor Nature Reserve in the vicinity, offering unique natural environments to explore.
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