The best gravel rides around Linthal
4.5
(50)
494
riders
57
rides
Gravel biking around Linthal is characterized by diverse alpine landscapes and significant elevation changes within the upper Linth Valley. The region features dramatic mountain backdrops, including peaks of the Glarus Alps, and the scenic Linthschlucht gorge. Gravel bike trails navigate through a mix of demanding ascents, picturesque valleys, and high-altitude areas, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The area provides routes that traverse both paved and unpaved segments, often connecting prominent passes and offering panoramic views.
Best gravel bike trails around…
Last updated: November 2, 2026
4.9
(8)
73
riders
59.3km
04:25
1,520m
1,520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.3
(12)
105
riders
46.3km
02:48
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.3
(3)
9
riders
33.2km
02:47
940m
940m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.8
(5)
35
riders
49.1km
03:26
1,150m
1,150m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
9
riders
72.4km
06:17
1,910m
1,910m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
The Ferme-Auberge du Haag is a traditional mountain inn located near the Col du Haag (1233 m), at the foot of the Grand Ballon. For generations, the farms on the higher Vosges ridges have been welcoming hikers, cyclists, and winter sports enthusiasts. The Haag farm is situated in the middle of mountain pastures, with a beautiful view over the southern Vosges and the Grand Ballon.
6
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When you drive from the Route des Crêtes towards Le Grand Ballon, you pass the Col du Haag (1233 m) almost unnoticed. Yet, this pass marks a special point on the southern flank of the highest mountain in the Vosges. Here, steep roads from the Thurdal leave the wooded slopes and reach the open heights of the massif. From the col, a typical Vosges landscape unfolds with mountain meadows, scattered farms, and sweeping views. The proximity of the Grand Ballon is felt everywhere: the imposing summit towers above the pass and forms the natural goal of the final climbing kilometers. For cyclists, the Col du Haag is mainly known as the point where difficult climbs from the valleys converge before the road continues to rise to the highest point of the Vosges.
6
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Le Markstein (1184 m) is meer dan alleen een kruispunt op de Route des Crêtes. Het is echter een echte bergpas en het hoogste punt van de oversteek tussen het Lauch- en Thurdal. Het ligt in het hart van het Vogezenmassief, midden een populair wintersportgebied dat nauw verbonden is met de Grand Ballon
6
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Le Markstein is a well-known winter sports and outdoor resort in the High Vosges, located at an altitude between 1020 and 1268 meters. The resort is situated directly on the iconic Route des Crêtes and forms an important crossroads and recreational area within the municipalities of Oderen and Lauw (near Wildenstein). At Le Markstein, you will find several traditional Fermes-Auberges and hotels where you can taste the local repas marcaire (a traditional hearty meal from the Vosges). Additionally, the location has gained significant fame in cycling; it is regularly the setting for tough mountain stages in the Tour de France (and the Tour de France Femmes), often as the final challenge after the climbs of Petit Ballon and Platzerwasel.
6
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De Col van Hahnenbrunnen ligt op een open bergzadel in de Hoge Vogezen, tussen de Markstein‑kam en de Breitfirst. De pas bevindt zich rond 1180 meter hoogte en vormt een overgang tussen de bergweiden (chaumes) van de Route des Crêtes en de beboste hellingen die afdalen naar het dal van de Lauch. Het gebied is genoemd naar oude bergboerderijen (fermes d’altitude) die hier eeuwenlang vee hielden op de hooggelegen weiden.
6
0
The Route des Crêtes (from the D430 near Rothenbach) is one of the most beautiful ridge roads in Europe. The road was originally built in 1914 by the French army to supply the troops at the front during World War I. Today, it is an iconic panoramic route that connects the main peaks of the Vosges.
1
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This view is even more beautiful if you have climbed via the Col de Bramont to the col du Rodenbach. So recognizable.
6
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The Route des Crêtes (the D430 near Rothenbach) is one of the most beautiful ridge routes in Europe. The road was originally built in 1914 by the French army to supply troops at the front in World War I. Today, it is an iconic panoramic route that connects the main peaks of the Vosges.
6
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Linthal?
While Linthal is known for its challenging mountainous terrain, there are a few routes that are less demanding. Out of approximately 70 gravel bike routes, 2 are classified as easy and 12 as moderate, offering options for those new to gravel biking or looking for a more relaxed ride.
What are the typical lengths and elevation gains for gravel bike trails in Linthal?
Gravel bike trails in Linthal vary significantly. For instance, the Col de Bramont – La route des crêtes loop from Grand Ballon is 41.2 miles (66.3 km) with over 1,480 meters of elevation gain, while the La route des crêtes – The ridge road loop from Metzeral is 20.6 miles (33.2 km) with about 936 meters of ascent. Expect significant climbs and descents across most routes due to the region's mountainous character.
Which gravel bike routes in Linthal are considered challenging?
Linthal is predominantly a destination for experienced gravel bikers, with 56 out of 70 routes classified as difficult. Notable challenging routes include the Markstein – Grand Ballon loop from Geishouse, which covers 39.9 miles (64.4 km) with over 1,400 meters of elevation, and the Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Mittlach, a 51 km route with nearly 1,200 meters of climbing.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Linthal?
Given the high-altitude loops, mountain passes, and ridge roads, the best time for gravel biking in Linthal is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, trails are generally free of snow, and weather conditions are more favorable for sustained climbs and descents.
What kind of terrain and trail conditions can I expect on Linthal's gravel bike routes?
Linthal's gravel bike routes are characterized by mountainous terrain with varied gradients. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces typical for gravel riding, including compacted dirt, loose gravel, and potentially some paved sections connecting mountain passes and ridge roads. Expect significant elevation changes throughout your ride.
Are there any loop gravel bike routes available in Linthal?
Yes, many of Linthal's gravel bike routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Col de Bramont – La route des crêtes loop from Grand Ballon and the Pinot Bend – Col de Petit Ballon Pass loop from Mittlach.
What scenic views can I expect on gravel bike routes around Linthal?
The region offers panoramic views from its elevated areas, connecting prominent peaks and passes. Many routes traverse ridge roads, providing expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape. Highlights like Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon are frequently part of these scenic rides.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Linthal?
The komoot community rates Linthal's gravel bike routes highly, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the challenging nature of the routes, the stunning panoramic views from the high-altitude sections, and the unique experience of riding along mountain passes and ridge roads.
Are there any natural attractions or landmarks to see along the gravel bike trails in Linthal?
Yes, several natural attractions and landmarks are accessible near or along the routes. You can find highlights such as the Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon summits, as well as picturesque bodies of water like Lake Schiessrothried and Lake Fischboedle.
How many gravel bike routes are available in the Linthal area?
There are approximately 70 gravel bike routes available in the Linthal area, offering a wide range of options primarily for experienced riders, but also including some easier and moderate trails.
Can I find less-known or quieter gravel bike trails in Linthal?
While some routes are more popular, the extensive network of trails in Linthal, especially those traversing high-altitude areas and connecting various passes, means you can often find quieter sections. Exploring routes that are not the absolute top favorites might lead you to less crowded paths, though the region's challenging nature means most routes offer a sense of adventure.
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