The best MTB trails around Alken
4.3
(34)
347
riders
31
rides
Mountain biking around Alken offers diverse terrain within the picturesque Moselle River Valley. The region is characterized by wooded hills and a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging ascents. Riders can explore routes that wind along the Moselle River banks and through dense forests. This geographical variety provides options for various skill levels, from moderate trails to more demanding paths.
Best mountain bike trails around Alken
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Wooden Pathway – Singletrack Through the…
Last updated: October 20, 2026
4.5
(13)
116
riders
57.4km
03:32
250m
250m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.0
(7)
82
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
28
riders
50.2km
03:04
170m
170m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
54.5km
03:08
240m
240m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3.0
(1)
18
riders
53.9km
03:28
200m
200m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Other adventures around Alken
Tips from the Community
The Pont de Godsheide is a steel cable-stayed bridge over the Albert Canal in Hasselt
1
0
A really beautiful tour here through the heath
1
0
Only for hiking ..and nature point
0
0
Beautiful view and wonderful bike path
0
0
At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.
2
0
The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
6
1
The Tjenneboom commemorates Tjenne the witch, who is said to have been burned at the stake at this location more than three centuries ago. The location is typical for a pyre or gallows, namely on the outskirts of a village and at the highest point in the area. The tree is located on the border of four former municipalities, Helshoven, Gotem, Mettekoven and Voort, and can thus also be considered a border tree. Finally, the tree marks the route of the Roman Road, the historical Roman connection between Bavay and Tongeren. It is already the third tree at this location, planted in 1970. The location has also been laid out as a meeting place. The solitary white poplar is an important landmark in the landscape. Due to its location, at the highest point in an open agricultural landscape, it is visible from the surrounding area. Moreover, it has a beautiful, representative growth form. @https://inventaris.onroerenderfgoed.be/aanduidingsobjecten/9752
3
0
On the site where a manor house stood in the Middle Ages, the castle of Hardelingen was built in the 19th century. The site had continuous habitation from early on and was closely linked for centuries to agricultural exploitation in the fertile valley of the Werm. As a manor house, the domain served not only as a residence but also as an economic center that managed and structured the surrounding land within the traditional agricultural landscape of Haspengouw. Today, the castle of Hardelingen, located in the quiet village of Werm, is a valuable example of the transformation of a medieval manor house into a stately 19th-century country residence. The castle and the surrounding park landscape strikingly illustrate the neoclassical ideals of order, harmony, and scenic beauty, thus occupying a special place in the heritage of Haspengouw. Want to know more about the past? Click through to https://www.burchten-kastelen.be/provincies/limburg/042%20Kasteel%20van%20Hardelingen/Kasteel%20van%20Hardelingen.html
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Alken?
There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Alken, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The region features a mix of moderate and challenging routes, with a few easier options as well.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Alken?
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for mountain biking in Alken. During these times, temperatures are pleasant, and the natural scenery, especially with colorful foliage in autumn, adds to the riding experience.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Alken?
While most trails around Alken are moderate, there is at least one easier route available. The diverse terrain also includes gentler hills, making it possible for beginners to find suitable sections. Always check the route details for specific difficulty ratings.
Can I find challenging mountain bike trails in Alken?
Yes, Alken offers challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders. The region's varied terrain includes steep slopes and more demanding paths. There is at least one difficult route, and many moderate trails also provide a good workout with significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Alken?
Many of the mountain bike routes around Alken are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Wooden Pathway – Singletrack Through the Woods loop from Alken, the Oetersloven Chapel – Holloway Path loop from Alken, and the Floating Chapel of Helshoven – Helshoven Chapel and Hermitage loop from Alken.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
Mountain biking in Alken takes you through picturesque landscapes, including wooded hills and along the banks of the Moselle River. You can also discover natural monuments such as the De Platwijers-Wijvenheide Nature Reserve and Lake Het Vinne. The Ehrbachklamm Waterfalls are also a notable natural spectacle in the wider region.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions along the mountain bike routes?
Yes, the region around Alken is rich in historical attractions. Many trails offer views of medieval fortresses like Thurant Castle and Ehrenburg Castle. You can also pass by sites such as the Herkenrode Abbey Site and the unique Floating Chapel of Helshoven.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Alken?
The mountain bike trails around Alken are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic views of the Moselle Valley and castles, and the well-maintained paths that wind through dense forests and along riverbanks.
Are there any viewpoints along the mountain bike routes in Alken?
Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning vistas, particularly of the Moselle River Valley and the numerous castles perched above it. For specific panoramic views, consider routes that pass by the De Wijers Observation Tower, Zonhoven, or the De Herkwinning viewpoint – Hoogveld Windmill Ruins loop from Alken.
Where can I find parking for mountain biking in Alken?
While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed here, Alken and its surrounding villages typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage or use navigation apps for parking options near your chosen starting point.
Are there any specific routes that offer views of castles?
Yes, several routes in the broader Alken region are known for their castle views. While not all are komoot tours listed in this guide, the area is famous for trails that provide stunning vistas of historical fortresses like Ehrenburg Castle and Burg Thurant, often along the Moselle River.
What is the longest mountain bike trail in this guide?
The longest mountain bike trail featured in this guide is the De Herkwinning viewpoint – Hoogveld Windmill Ruins loop from Alken, which covers a distance of 67.4 kilometers (approximately 41.9 miles).
Most popular attractions around Alken
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
