The best traffic-free bike rides around Schwarzenfeld
4.2
(61)
420
riders
36
rides
Gravel biking around Schwarzenfeld offers diverse natural landscapes characterized by river valleys, lakes, and hilly terrain. The region, situated along the Naab and Schwarzach rivers and near the Upper Palatinate Lake District, provides an extensive network of paths suitable for gravel bikes. Riders can explore a mix of paved and unpaved sections, traversing forests and open areas. This area is recognized as a significant cycling hub, with routes extending in various directions.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Schwarzenfeld
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Path Along the Vils – Lauterach Valley Cycle Path loop from Freihöls, a 53.6 miles (86.2 km) trail that takes 5 hours 0 minutes to complete. This route follows the scenic Vils and Lauterach river valleys.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Lake Steinberger – Lake Steinberg loop from Schwandorf Airfield, a moderate 19.4 miles (31.2 km) path. It offers views around Lake Steinberg, a focal point of the Upper Palatinate Lake District.
- Local gravel bikers also love the View of Lake Murner – Murner See Lakeside Trail loop from Schwandorf Airfield, a 12.2 miles (19.7 km) trail leading through the Lake Murner area, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Schwarzenfeld is defined by river valleys, expansive lakes, and varied hilly terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside loops to more challenging routes with elevation.
- The routes in Schwarzenfeld are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 400 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Schwarzenfeld's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.9
(9)
121
riders
86.2km
05:00
750m
750m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
59
riders
31.2km
01:48
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(2)
13
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
16
riders
6.70km
00:20
30m
30m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
23
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The wooden ball is visible from some places.
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The wooden sphere is certainly a highlight on the lake. Personally, however, it wouldn't be worth €13 entrance fee for me (as of May 2026)
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perfect for watching at the water ski facility
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the wooden ball is visible from some places
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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The Mariental inn is only open on weekends. The next place to stop for refreshments would be in Ramspau G.H., near the church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Schwarzenfeld?
There are over 35 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Schwarzenfeld, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. These routes allow you to explore the beautiful Upper Palatinate region without the disturbance of cars.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic gravel bike trails in Schwarzenfeld?
Yes, Schwarzenfeld offers several excellent family-friendly options. The area around Lake Murner is particularly well-suited for families, with easy-to-ride circular routes. A great example is the Lake Murner – View of Lake Murner loop from Murner See, which is short and easy.
Where can I find parking for these quiet gravel bike routes?
Many of the quiet gravel bike routes around Schwarzenfeld start from easily accessible locations with parking. For routes around the lakes, you can often find parking directly at Lake Murner or near Schwandorf Airfield, which serves as a starting point for tours like the View of Lake Murner – Murner See Lakeside Trail loop.
What natural attractions can I explore along the no-traffic gravel bike routes?
The no-traffic gravel bike routes in Schwarzenfeld are rich with natural beauty. You can cycle along the picturesque Naab and Schwarzach rivers, or explore the stunning Lake Steinberg and Lake Murner. The View of Lake Murnersee offers panoramic vistas, and the Charlottenhofer Weihergebiet nature reserve provides a tranquil setting.
Are there viewpoints along the quiet gravel bike routes?
Absolutely! The hilly landscapes around Schwarzenfeld offer several rewarding viewpoints. The Miesberg, with its church and monastery, provides spectacular views over the Naab Valley. Additionally, the observation tower at Lake Murner offers panoramic views of the lake and the adjacent nature reserve.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. The region has various huts and snack huts, such as the Hirmerschlag Snack Hut, which are perfect for a break. The Jakob Brewery Inn at Hammersee is another great option for a more substantial stop.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking on these traffic-free trails?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) are generally ideal for gravel biking in Schwarzenfeld. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes around the lakes and rivers are at their most vibrant. The trails are well-maintained and offer excellent conditions for riding.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Schwarzenfeld?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the extensive network of quiet paths, and the tranquility of cycling along the rivers and around the lakes, making it perfect for escaping traffic.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes?
For those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Path Along the Vils – Lauterach Valley Cycle Path loop from Freihöls offer a significant distance and elevation gain, providing a more demanding experience on quiet paths. This route is classified as difficult and covers over 86 km.
Can I find circular no-traffic gravel bike routes around Schwarzenfeld?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike routes in Schwarzenfeld are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The tours around Lake Steinberg and Lake Murner, such as the Lake Steinberger – Lake Steinberg loop from Schwandorf Airfield, are excellent examples of scenic loop trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these quiet gravel bike trails?
The terrain on Schwarzenfeld's quiet gravel bike trails is diverse, ranging from well-maintained gravel paths along river valleys to slightly more challenging sections through hilly forests. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, making it an authentic gravel biking experience suitable for various skill levels.
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