4.4
(399)
1,795
riders
143
rides
Gravel biking in Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee provides access to a distinctive Rhine floodplain ecosystem, characterized by extensive reed beds and both hardwood and softwood riparian forests. The terrain is generally flat, featuring a mix of unpaved paths and wider tracks suitable for gravel bikes. This nature reserve, a former meandering arm of the Rhine, includes the Kleiner Bodensee, a gravel pit lake, and sections of the Alb stream and Alb canal, contributing to diverse aquatic habitats. The region's flat terrain…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(7)
40
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.4
(7)
24
riders
31.3km
01:35
90m
90m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Narrow and amazingly high footbridge over an old Rhine arm. A little test of courage for those with a fear of heights 😉 Passable in May 2026 and not closed.
4
0
Beautiful nature reserve. The many white willows and dragonflies are immediately noticeable. Softwood and hardwood floodplains together form the floodplain forest, the species-richest habitat in Central Europe. Up to 400 day and night butterflies and over 900 different beetle species can be found here, including some species that are endangered throughout Europe.
4
0
Small bridge over the renatured Alb canal with beautiful views over the canal.
1
0
A beautiful example of successful renaturation. From the dam path, everything already looks very natural just 12 years after renaturation.
5
0
Small path through a bright deciduous forest along the Federbach, which looks like an old Rhine arm here. Beautiful.
4
0
Beautiful sandy beach - good for swimming here, if the beach isn't underwater due to high water levels 😉
3
0
Very large excavated lake in the Rhine floodplains - the largest in Baden-Württemberg. Great hiking trails and all kinds of water sports. Accessible by large cargo ships via a navigable connection to the Rhine. Interesting history: in the early 1930s, gravel wasn't being excavated yet, but gold - the Nazis were searching for the legendary Rhine gold here. However, the yield was so low that they switched to gravel excavation after a few years.
4
0
A beautiful path through the Rhine meadows on the main Rhine dike, perfect for cycling, jogging or walking.
3
0
The Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee region offers a wide selection of gravel bike trails, with over 340 routes available on komoot. These range from easy loops to more challenging, longer rides, ensuring options for various skill levels.
You'll primarily encounter flat Rhine floodplain landscapes, featuring a mix of unpaved paths, wider tracks, and sections through reed beds and riparian forests. The terrain is generally well-suited for gravel bikes, offering a smooth yet engaging ride through natural surroundings.
Yes, the region has several easy routes. For a pleasant and accessible ride, consider the Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee loop from Bärenweg. This 24 km trail leads through the heart of the nature reserve and is often completed in under 1.5 hours, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.
The area is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the unique Rhine floodplain ecosystem, including the Kleiner Bodensee itself, and observe diverse birdlife in the reed beds. Keep an eye out for the Viewpoint at Kleiner Bodensee for scenic vistas, or the Confluence of the Canals where the Alb stream and Alb canal meet.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. Riders frequently praise the tranquility and immersion in nature, the well-maintained unpaved paths, and the opportunity to observe rich biodiversity, especially various bird species, throughout their rides.
Absolutely. For a more demanding ride, the Flood Protection Dike – Fermasee Viewing Platform loop from Welschneureuter Straße offers a moderate challenge over 55 km, incorporating diverse landscapes. Another option for experienced riders is the Schmugglermeer – Alb Canal loop from Eggenstein Süd, a moderate 31.5 km route.
Yes, the nature reserve's wide paths and natural environment can be suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and respect other visitors. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
The region is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage or blooming nature. Even in winter, the generally flat terrain can be ridden, though some areas might be slippery, and you might spot different bird species like Tufted Ducks and Northern Shovelers.
While specific parking areas are not detailed for every route, the region is accessible, and you can often find parking near entry points to the nature reserve or in nearby towns like Bärenweg or Knielingen, which serve as starting points for many komoot tours.
The Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee area is located near Karlsruhe, a city with good public transport connections. You can likely reach towns bordering the nature reserve via local buses or trains, from which you can then cycle to the trailheads. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies for your specific starting point.
Yes, the nature reserve offers several spots for scenic views. The Viewpoint at Kleiner Bodensee is a specific highlight where you can pause and take in the tranquil lake and surrounding floodplain landscape.
As a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee is rich in biodiversity. You might spot various wetland birds such as Mallards, Great Crested Grebes, and Common Teals. In winter, Tufted Ducks and Northern Shovelers are common. The riparian forests are also home to different woodpecker species and other interesting wildlife.


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