The best gravel rides around Saulxures-Sur-Moselotte

There are over 40 gravel bike trails available around Saulxures-sur-Moselotte, offering a wide range of options for exploration. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 30 reviews.

The region offers diverse terrain, primarily featuring an extensive network of forest tracks that are often smooth and well-suited for gravel bikes. You'll encounter a mix of paths, sublime road sections, and occasional singletrack. The landscape includes the 'Ballons des Vosges' – dome-shaped, forest-covered mountains – and ancient glacial valleys, providing both scenic beauty and engaging challenges.

While many routes in the region feature significant climbing and are rated as difficult, the area does offer options for various ability levels. The Crosery Gorges – Voie Verte des Hautes-Vosges loop from Cornimont incorporates sections of the multi-activity Voie Verte des Hautes-Vosges, which is generally flatter and more accessible. For a truly relaxed experience, the Voie Verte itself is a 55 km multi-activity path built on old railway lines, perfect for families and those seeking an easier ride.

The gravel routes often lead through deep forests, past high-altitude lakes, and offer panoramic views from prominent peaks. You can explore natural attractions like Crow Lake, or pass by the Col du Page Memorial (957 m). The region is also known for picturesque waterfalls like Cascade de Mérelle and Cascade du Bockloch, and the central Lac de la Moselotte leisure center.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Col des Feignes (Sous-Vologne) – Lispach Lake loop from Basse des Feignes, which features significant elevation gain, and the View of Lake Lispach – Lac de Retournemer loop from Cornimont, leading through forested areas and past high-altitude lakes.

The Vosges region is generally excellent for gravel biking from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the trails are typically free from snow and excessive mud. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential snow, and icy conditions, especially at higher altitudes.

Regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary within the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or during wildlife breeding seasons. Always check local signage or the park's official guidelines for specific rules on individual trails.

Parking is generally available at key starting points for trails, such as near the Lac de la Moselotte leisure center, or in the villages like Cornimont and Le Ménil, which serve as common departure points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas or public car parks in these locations.

While many routes traverse natural and forested areas, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the villages and towns that the trails pass through or start from, such as Saulxures-sur-Moselotte itself, Cornimont, or Le Ménil. It's a good idea to plan your route to include stops in these areas for refreshments.

The terrain in the Saulxures-sur-Moselotte area ranges from 464 to 1050 meters in altitude. Some routes, like the Col du Page Memorial (957 m) – Hautes Vosges Greenway loop from Le Ménil, involve significant climbing and can take you close to the highest points, offering impressive views from the 'Ballons des Vosges'.

Public transport options in the immediate vicinity of Saulxures-sur-Moselotte are limited, as it is a rural area. However, regional bus services might connect to larger towns. For accessing trailheads, it's often most convenient to arrive by car or to start your ride directly from your accommodation in Saulxures-sur-Moselotte or nearby villages.