The best gravel rides around Glarus Süd

Glarus Süd offers a diverse network of over 35 gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easier valley rides to challenging alpine ascents.

You can expect a wide variety of terrain, from flat valley floors alongside the Linth Canal to challenging ascents towards mountain passes. The region features prominent lakes like Obersee and Klöntalersee, forested sections, open pastures, and routes with significant elevation gain, all on a network of gravel paths.

Yes, Glarus Süd has options for beginners. There are 2 easy routes and 8 moderate routes. A good starting point is the Shore of Lake Obersee – Linth Canal loop from Glarus, which offers a moderate ride with a mix of lakeside and canal paths.

For those seeking a challenge, Glarus Süd offers 28 difficult routes with substantial elevation gain. The Klöntalersee – Klöntal Lakeside Road loop from Schwändi is a difficult 52.8 km path featuring significant elevation gain and scenic views around Klöntalersee.

Yes, several routes offer longer distances. The Vorder Höhi Pass (1536 m) – View of Lake Walen loop from Glarus is a substantial 88.8 km trail leading through alpine terrain, typically taking around 6 hours 53 minutes to complete.

Many routes offer stunning views, especially around the prominent lakes like Obersee and Klöntalersee. You can also explore nearby mountain passes such as the Pragel Pass or the Richetli Pass, which are popular highlights in the region.

For families, routes along the valley floor or around the lakes tend to be more suitable. Consider the easier sections of the Linth Canal – Linth Canal loop from Glarus, which offers a relatively flat and accessible ride.

The best season for gravel biking in Glarus Süd is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, mountain passes are generally clear of snow, and the weather is more stable, offering ideal conditions for exploring both valley and alpine routes.

Many of the gravel bike trails in Glarus Süd are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Shore of Lake Obersee – Linth Canal loop from Glarus and the Sool Village – Höfliegg Trail loop from Ennenda.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Glarus Süd, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often praise the varied landscapes, from serene lakeside paths to challenging alpine climbs, and the well-maintained network of gravel paths that allow for diverse adventures.

Many starting points for gravel bike trails in Glarus Süd are accessible by public transport, particularly in larger towns like Glarus or Schwändi. Swiss public transport is generally bike-friendly, though it's advisable to check specific train or bus schedules and bike transport regulations beforehand.

While some lower-elevation valley routes might be rideable in winter, many higher alpine trails and mountain passes in Glarus Süd will be covered in snow and inaccessible. Winter gravel biking is generally limited and requires careful planning and checking local conditions for snow and ice.