The best gravel rides around Lens

There are over 80 gravel bike trails around Lens. This includes 12 easy routes, 55 moderate routes, and 13 more challenging options, catering to a wide range of skill levels.

The terrain around Lens is quite varied. You'll encounter unique landscapes shaped by the region's mining heritage, including reforested mining slag heaps (terrils) that offer challenging climbs and panoramic views. Many routes also follow flat and accessible canals and greenways, such as the Canal de Lens and the Pévèle greenway. Beyond these, you'll find open countryside and some forest sections, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel bikes.

Yes, Lens offers several easy gravel bike routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These often follow the region's canals and greenways, providing consistent and generally flat surfaces. An example is the Leforest slag heap – Leforest slope loop from Oignies, which is rated as easy.

For those seeking a challenge, the region's mining slag heaps (terrils) provide significant climbs and descents. Routes like the View of Olhain – Brick bridge loop from Liévin and the Marais de la Galance – Bois de Florimond Pumptrack loop from Loison-sous-Lens are rated as difficult, featuring varied terrain and more substantial elevation changes.

Yes, the numerous greenways and canal paths around Lens are ideal for family-friendly gravel biking. These routes are typically flat, well-maintained, and away from traffic, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The Parc de la Glissoire also offers trails and amenities like playgrounds.

The trails often feature unique sights related to the region's mining history and natural beauty. You can expect panoramic views from the reforested slag heaps, such as the Leforest slag heap or the iconic Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap. Many routes also pass by canals, marshes, and open countryside. The Louvre-Lens Park, with its views of the twin slag heaps, is also a notable nearby attraction.

Many of the gravel bike routes around Lens are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Pévèle greenway – Voie Verte de la Pévèle loop from Libercourt and the Canal de Lens – Harnes Fishing Pond loop from Lens.

The gravel biking trails in Lens are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 110 reviews. Riders often praise the unique blend of historical mining landscapes with natural greenways and canals, offering diverse scenery and varied challenges.

Lens and its surrounding towns are generally well-connected by public transport, including regional trains and buses. Many trailheads are located near urban centers, making it feasible to reach them without a car. We recommend checking local transport schedules for specific routes and stations closest to your desired starting point.

Yes, parking is generally available in the towns and villages where many of the gravel routes begin. Larger attractions like the Louvre-Lens Park and Parc de la Glissoire also offer parking facilities that can serve as convenient starting points for nearby trails.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Lens, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can get warm. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy sections, especially on unpaved trails.

Many of the greenways and natural areas around Lens are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash and you clean up after them. However, specific rules can vary by location, especially in protected natural parks or private lands. It's always best to check local signage or regulations for the particular trail you plan to ride.