The best MTB trails around Bilzen
4.2
(224)
1,931
riders
85
rides
Mountain biking around Bilzen offers diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. The region bridges the Kempen and Haspengouw, featuring vast pine forests on sandy soil in the Hoge Kempen National Park. Additionally, the Haspengouw Landscape Park provides picturesque settings with fruit orchards, gently sloping fields, and distinctive hollow roads. These natural features contribute to a rich mountain biking experience with varied elevation and difficulty.
Best mountain bike trails around Bilzen
- The most popular…
Last updated: August 14, 2026
4.5
(16)
151
riders
45.1km
02:56
410m
410m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.4
(26)
133
riders
48.2km
03:04
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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4.5
(113)
807
riders
50.0km
03:34
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.4
(21)
138
riders
32.7km
02:29
190m
190m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.3
(3)
30
riders
18.9km
01:13
150m
150m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Tips from the Community
This section, together with the water lock and the outer bailey, belongs to the oldest parts: in the Apostles' House, remains of the late Gothic ordinance from the second half of the 16th century from the building campaign of Land Commander Wijnandt van Brijel have been preserved. The complex is located at the highest point of the domain, on the eastern side of the commandery. Seven avenues converge at the gate, symbolizing the Seven Sorrows and Joys of Mary. To the right of the gatehouse was the now disappeared Apostles' House; it was an L-shaped building of two storeys, with a chapel on the ground floor, and twelve rooms for needy men, hence the name Apostles' House; late Gothic core from the second half of the 16th century, enlarged and adapted in 1716-1726, under Commander Damian Hugo von Schönborn, as indicated by a facade stone. After World War II, the Apostles' House slowly deteriorated but has since been restored.
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The Katteberg is said to owe its name to a quarry in the nearby Leten called 'In de Kat'. This nature reserve on the Demer is very varied with its fish ponds, species-rich meadows, rough areas, an orchard and a slope forest. The walking path that leads via the Leterweg to Alden Biesen follows the route of a vanished tram line. This was built in 1908-1910 to connect the industrial area of Liège with the Limburg coal mines. The tram line had to bridge a height of 25 meters here and crossed the Demer via a double arched bridge in masonry. The tram tracks were removed in 1952. The pond behind the tram bridge was created by the extraction of clay for the Belisia tile factory in the Zeepstraat.
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This place used to be the location of the Motmolen, the nature reserve is named after it: https://youtu.be/dvlbNrtk4W0?feature=shared
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The Pasbrugpad runs approximately parallel to the E313 between Roelants Duvivierlaan and the former Motmolen in the nature reserve of the same name.
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Sunken roads only occur in hilly regions. They are typical of the loess region. They were created by human intervention. They were used as connecting roads between farm and field, and due to frequent use, loose sand was washed down the slope with every rain shower. In this way, the road became increasingly hollowed out. A sunken road has a mild temperature; the wind has no hold on it. The silence is also noticeable during a walk in the shelter of a deep lane.
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The Katteberg follows the route of an old tramway. A climb not to be underestimated awaits you here. Historical context: This semi-hardened gravel path follows the route of the former tram line that connected the coal mines of Genk with the industrial area of Liège. The construction of the tram line began in 1908. To overcome the difference in altitude between the station and the hamlet of Leten, an earthen embankment was built over a distance of 700 meters, cutting straight through the Katteberg. A double arch bridge in masonry was built over the Demer river. The steam tram was put into operation in 1910 and caused a huge increase in passenger traffic in the region. The tram was definitively taken out of service in August 1948. The tram tracks were removed in 1952. Now, this is a route where recreational users, hikers, and cyclists can cross paths. Each at their own pace, enjoying together.
7
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You will have to stand on tiptoe to observe the body of water over the fence.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there in Bilzen?
Bilzen offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 90 routes available. These cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
What are the different difficulty levels for mountain biking in Bilzen?
The mountain bike trails in Bilzen cater to all skill levels. You'll find 12 easy routes, 71 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for everyone from beginners to advanced riders.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike routes in Bilzen?
Yes, Bilzen offers several easy mountain bike routes that are suitable for families. These trails often feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances, perfect for a leisurely ride with children. While specific family-friendly routes aren't highlighted by name, the 12 easy routes provide excellent options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Bilzen's mountain bike trails?
Bilzen's mountain bike trails offer a diverse range of terrain due to its unique position between the Kempen and Haspengouw regions. You can expect extensive pine forests on sandy soil, particularly within the Hoge Kempen National Park, as well as rolling hills, flowering fruit orchards, and distinctive hollow roads in the Hart van Haspengouw Landscape Park. Trails often combine both paved and unpaved sections, with some routes featuring significant off-road components and varied elevation changes.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the trails?
Absolutely. Many trails pass through or near beautiful natural areas. For instance, the Steep climb in Pietersembos – Mechelse Heide loop takes you through the Hoge Kempen National Park, where you can find highlights like Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes. The region also features the Wilderpark with its valuable valley vegetation and the charming Stadspark Petry.
What historical sites or cultural landmarks can I explore while mountain biking in Bilzen?
Bilzen is rich in history. The Katteberg Path – Alden Biesen Gatehouse loop, for example, leads you through the Haspengouw countryside and past the majestic Grand Commandery Alden Biesen, a significant moated castle. You might also encounter the 16th-century Bilzermolen watermill in Park Haffmans.
Are there mountain bike routes that are circular loops?
Yes, many of Bilzen's mountain bike routes are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Steep climb in Pietersembos – Mechelse Heide loop and the Blaarmolen Watermill – Wijngaerdbos Trail loop.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Bilzen?
The spring and autumn months are particularly beautiful for mountain biking in Bilzen. In spring, the Hart van Haspengouw Landscape Park is stunning with its blossoming fruit orchards. The varied terrain and forests offer pleasant riding conditions throughout these seasons. While winter riding is possible, trail conditions can vary with weather.
How long are the mountain bike trails in Bilzen typically?
The mountain bike trails in Bilzen vary in length, but many popular routes are designed for longer rides. For example, the Sledderzee – Zoetedal Singletrack loop is around 51 km, and the View of Guigoven Castle – Hardelingen Castle loop is about 47 km. These longer routes typically take between 2.5 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Bilzen?
The mountain bike trails in Bilzen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 200 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of trails, and the varied terrain that provides an engaging experience for all skill levels. Over 2,000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the region.
Are there any specific parks or natural areas known for mountain biking in Bilzen?
Yes, Bilzen is uniquely positioned within two significant natural parks. The Hoge Kempen National Park offers extensive pine forests and 200 km of unpaved trails specifically for mountain bikers. Additionally, the Hart van Haspengouw Landscape Park provides a picturesque setting with rolling hills and orchards. The Munsterbos is a popular destination within the Hoge Kempen National Park.
Where can I find more information about Bilzen and its outdoor activities?
For more details on Bilzen's attractions and outdoor opportunities, you can visit the official tourism websites. Check out visitbilzenhoeselt.be or visitlimburg.be for comprehensive guides on what to see and do in the region.
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