The best gravel rides in Jordan

Jordan's gravel bike trails offer a diverse and often challenging landscape. You'll encounter vast desert expanses like Wadi Rum with its towering sandstone mountains and golden dunes, the fertile Jordan Valley, and elevated Mountain Heights Plateaus. Many routes traverse rugged mountains and deep wadis (canyons). Be prepared for a mix of sandy sections, rocky paths, and varied elevations. Wide tires (40mm or more) and potentially a suspension fork are recommended for comfort.

There are 9 gravel bike trails currently available on komoot for Jordan. These routes are categorized as either moderate (7 routes) or difficult (2 routes), offering options for different experience levels.

The best times for gravel biking in Jordan are generally during the high tourist season, from March to October. During these months, the weather is typically more favorable for outdoor activities. However, be aware that winter can be cold in the highlands.

Yes, some routes in Jordan incorporate natural springs and even waterfalls. For instance, the Kantara Bridge and Waterfall – Ein Shokek Spring loop from בית שאן offers challenging desert terrain with views of waterfalls and springs. Another option is the Basalt Canyon Waterfall – Ein Moda Natural Spring loop from בית שאן, which also features a waterfall.

Jordan's gravel trails can lead you through incredible natural and historical sites. You might encounter the dramatic rock formations of Wadi Rum, the unique landscape of the Dead Sea region, or the rugged beauty of various wadis. For historical landmarks, consider exploring areas near Petra, where you can find sites like The Siq and Little Petra (Siq al-Barid). The country also boasts impressive castles such as Kerak Castle and Shobak Castle.

While the individual komoot routes listed here are typically day trips, Jordan is home to the substantial 700-kilometer Jordan Bike Trail, which stretches from north to south. This trail is designed for multi-day adventures, with stages averaging about 60 kilometers and significant elevation changes, suitable for experienced riders looking for a long-distance challenge.

The gravel biking routes in Jordan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Riders often praise the unique desert landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the opportunity to explore diverse natural features and historical sites.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in Jordan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Ein Shokek Spring – Ein Moda Natural Spring loop from בית שאן and the Solomon's Pillars – Solomon's Pillars loop from Elifaz, both offering circular journeys through the desert landscape.

Gravel biking in Jordan ranges from moderate to difficult. The terrain can be quite challenging, featuring large rocks, deep sand, and significant elevation changes, particularly in the desert and mountain plateau regions. Riders should be prepared for demanding conditions, and routes like the Kantara Bridge and Waterfall – Ein Shokek Spring loop from בית שאן are specifically graded as difficult.

Jordan is crisscrossed by numerous wadis (canyons), and several routes offer stunning views of these natural formations. The Wadi Perazim Canyon – Mount Sodom Viewpoint loop from Refreshment Station/Neve Zohar is a moderate route that takes you through the dramatic Wadi Perazim Canyon, offering impressive vistas of the landscape.

Given the challenging and varied terrain, it's highly recommended to use a gravel bike with wide tires, ideally 40mm or more, to handle sandy sections and rocky paths. A suspension fork can also significantly improve comfort on rougher trails. Always carry sufficient water, navigation tools, and repair kits, as amenities can be sparse in remote areas.