The best gravel rides around Dam Wendefurth
4.5
(44)
305
riders
30
rides
Gravel biking around Dam Wendefurth offers diverse terrain within the Harz region, characterized by its reservoirs, valleys, and forested hills. The landscape features a mix of dam-side paths, challenging ascents towards higher elevations like the Brocken, and routes through scenic river valleys. This area provides varied surfaces suitable for gravel bikes, from compacted forest roads to more rugged trails.
Best gravel bike trails around Dam Wendefurth
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Rappbode Dam – Rotestein (HWN 54) loop from Rübeland (Harz), a 29.0 miles (46.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 21 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain and views of the Rappbode Dam.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Brocken Summit – Brockenstraße loop from Rübeland (Harz), a difficult 56.7 miles (91.2 km) path. This route includes a substantial climb towards the Brocken Summit, offering expansive mountain scenery.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Rappbode Dam – View of the Rappbode Reservoir loop from Bodetal, a 37.5 miles (60.4 km) trail leading through the Bodetal valley and past the Rappbode Reservoir, often completed in about 5 hours 13 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Dam Wendefurth is defined by dam and reservoir views, valley paths, and forested mountain climbs. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Dam Wendefurth are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Dam Wendefurth's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
5.0
(6)
23
riders
46.6km
03:21
810m
810m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(19)
128
riders
91.7km
06:06
1,620m
1,620m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
50.9km
03:07
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
6
riders
60.8km
04:05
940m
940m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
11.9km
00:45
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Dam Wendefurth
Tips from the Community
Definitely worth seeing 👍
1
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Not much of the castle is recognizable anymore. A sign provides information. Great all-round view!
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The castle inhabitants were already able to enjoy the great view from up here back then, just without the dam.
1
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In the heart of the Rappbode Valley, the "Titan-RT" spans the Bode reservoir with an incredible total length of 458.5 meters. The delicate cable structure was completed in spring 2017 and, with a massive tensile force of 947 tons, claws its way into the slate rocks on both sides of the valley. Four main suspension cables with a diameter of 65 mm form the backbone of the 120-ton structure. In addition, two stabilizing cables keep the bridge in shape—and in position during higher wind speeds. The 120-cm-wide walkway (grating) is lined along its entire length by a 130-cm-high railing and is enclosed on the sides by stainless steel mesh. Highly recommended⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2
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From here starts the fully asphalted Brockenstraße
1
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From the Rappbode Dam, you have breathtaking views over dense forests, rolling hills, and the shimmering water. The surrounding nature invites you to linger, hike, and breathe deeply.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Dam Wendefurth?
There are over 35 gravel bike trails around Dam Wendefurth, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What are the typical difficulty levels for gravel biking in this area?
The trails around Dam Wendefurth primarily feature moderate and difficult routes. You'll find 18 moderate trails and 17 difficult trails, with a few easier options available as well.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel bike routes around Dam Wendefurth?
Yes, for a more relaxed ride, consider the View of Hasselvorsperre – Hassel Forebay loop from Hassel-Vorsperre. This moderate 7.4-mile (11.9 km) route offers pleasant views without significant elevation challenges.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Dam Wendefurth?
You can expect diverse terrain, including compacted forest roads, some rugged trails, and paths alongside dams and reservoirs. The region is characterized by forested hills and river valleys, offering varied surfaces suitable for gravel bikes.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For a significant challenge, the Brocken Summit – Brockenstraße loop from Rübeland (Harz) is a difficult 56.7-mile (91.2 km) path with substantial elevation gain towards the Brocken Summit, offering expansive mountain scenery.
Are there circular gravel bike routes around Dam Wendefurth?
Many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Stiege stave church – View of the Brocken loop from Hasselniederung is a moderate 17.9-mile (28.8 km) circular route that takes you past interesting sights.
What are some good starting points or trailheads for gravel biking near Dam Wendefurth?
Popular starting points often include Rübeland, Bodetal, and areas around the Hassel-Vorsperre, as many routes are designed as loops beginning and ending in these locations.
What is the best season for gravel biking around Dam Wendefurth?
Spring, summer, and autumn generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking, with pleasant temperatures and clear trails. Autumn provides particularly scenic rides with colorful foliage.
What can I see along the gravel bike trails, or are there any interesting landmarks?
Many routes offer views of the dams and reservoirs. You can also find landmarks like the Titan RT Suspension Bridge, the View of the Wendefurth Dam, and the Abandoned Slate Quarries at Schieferberg. Some trails also pass by the Wendefurth Pumped-Storage Power Plant.
Are there any gravel bike trails with cafes or places to stop for refreshments?
While specific routes aren't tagged with cafes, the area around the Wendefurth Dam offers options like the Wendefurth Boat Rental and Floating Restaurant and Seeterrasse Zum Hecht & Boat Rental, which are often accessible from nearby trails.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Dam Wendefurth?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic dam and reservoir views, and the challenging climbs towards higher elevations like the Brocken.
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