The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Écorces

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Les Écorces featured in this guide. These routes offer a fantastic way to explore the varied terrain of the Doubs department away from vehicle traffic.

The trails around Les Écorces and the broader Doubs region feature diverse topography, with elevations ranging from 809 to 920 meters within the commune itself. You can expect a mix of picturesque valleys, forests, and some challenging ascents. For example, the route "View of the Doubs – Tunnel near Lac de Moron loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds-Grenier" involves over 1200 meters of elevation gain, providing a dynamic experience.

While many routes in the area are rated as difficult, there is a moderate option available. The "Bahnhofplatz La Chaux-de-Fonds – Le Maillard loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds" route is a great choice for those looking for a less strenuous ride, covering 21.5 km with around 410 meters of elevation gain.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore stunning gorges, such as the "Combe de Biaufond" or the dramatic "The Ladders of Death". Many trails also follow the tranquil Doubs River and wind through lush forests, offering serene views and a deep connection with nature.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the "View of the Doubs – Le Gros-Crêt loop from La Chaux-de Fonds Est", which offers a substantial 39 km circular ride with over 1000 meters of climbing.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Les Écorces, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 14 ratings. Riders often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the stunning views of the Doubs valleys and forests.

The Doubs department, where Les Écorces is located, experiences varied seasonal conditions. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, ideal for gravel biking. Summers can be warm, while winters may bring snow, especially at higher elevations, making some trails less accessible for gravel biking.

While specific parking details for each trail are best checked on the individual route pages, areas like La Chaux-de-Fonds, which serves as a starting point for several routes, typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to review the tour details on komoot for the most accurate parking information for your chosen route.

Yes, the region offers various amenities. For example, the "Le Maillard" is a restaurant highlight, and there are several huts and shelters like "Torret Shelter" and "Hôtel de la Chaux-d'Abel" that can provide refreshment or accommodation options along or near the trails.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like "View of the Doubs – Tunnel near Lac de Moron loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds-Grenier" span over 51 km with significant elevation, while "On old smugglers' paths" offers nearly 40 km of difficult terrain, perfect for a full day's adventure.

The broader Doubs department has public transport options, and some routes, such as those starting from La Chaux-de-Fonds, are accessible via train. It's recommended to check local public transport schedules and connections to the specific starting points of your chosen gravel bike trail.