Route no. 6 - Avoin

This mountain biking loop conveniently starts and finishes in the charming village of Grimentz. You can find parking within the village to access the trailhead.

The route offers a diverse mix of terrain, including excellent access trails through terraced fields, a road climb towards Moiry, and then transitions into a singletrack descent. You'll also encounter forest roads and a second, longer descent through clearings and forests. Expect technical sections, flowing singletracks, and potentially rough, steep, rocky paths with roots, especially after rain, as it's an alpine singletrack.

Riders are treated to phenomenal views throughout the loop. You'll see impeccable panoramas of distinctive mountains like the Diablon Mountains and the Weisshorn. The trail traverses lush, green meadows and dense forests, offering glimpses of traditional alpine pastures and captivating views of the Valais Alps.

No, this trail is rated as moderate and requires good fitness and advanced riding skills. It's ideal for those comfortable with singletrack trails, steep terrain, switchbacks, and navigating 'rough stuff' at slower speeds due to its technical sections.

The Loop of the Avoin Alpine Pastures is approximately 11.9 km long and typically takes around 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. Some sources suggest it can take up to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Yes, a significant highlight on this route is The Alpages of Avoin, which offers fantastic views. The picturesque village of Grimentz itself, with its traditional wooden houses, is also a charming starting and ending point.

The best time to ride this trail is generally during the warmer months when the alpine pastures are lush and the weather is stable. Mountain biking season in the Valais Alps typically runs from late spring through early autumn, avoiding snow and ice.

While specific rules for dogs on this exact trail are not detailed, generally in the Valais region, dogs are permitted on hiking and biking trails. However, they should be kept on a leash, especially in alpine pasture areas where livestock may be present, and during wildlife breeding seasons. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the Loop of the Avoin Alpine Pastures mountain bike trail itself. However, if you opt to use the cable car to Bendolla to reduce the initial climb, there will be a fee for the cable car service.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other official trails. You will encounter parts of the 24-Alpine Passes Trail, 07-Chemin des Bisses, 23-Alpine Passes Trail, and the Grand Bisse de St-Jean, among others.

Yes, a convenient option to reduce the initial climbing effort is to take the cable car to Bendolla. This can help you conserve energy for the rest of the loop's technical sections and descents.