4.8
(246)
1,760
riders
MTB Route Lochem
01:44
22.3km
110m
Mountain biking
Experience the challenging Loop Lochem - Purple Route, a 13.8-mile mountain bike trail with 375 feet of elevation gain in Nationaal Landscha
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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5.47 km
Lochem MTB Trail – Pump Track & Dirt Jumps
Highlight • MTB Park
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.99 km
Lochem–Vorden Connecting Trail
Highlight • Trail
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8.08 km
Climbing Section of the Lochemerberg Mountain Bike Route
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
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14.8 km
Between the fields
Highlight • Trail
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18.6 km
Kaleberg Summit
Highlight • Summit
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22.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.4 km
3.34 km
1.37 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
13.4 km
4.47 km
2.61 km
917 m
759 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Tuesday 19 May
18°C
12°C
74 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Loop Lochem - Purple Route suitable for beginners?
No, this route is generally not recommended for beginners. While officially classified as 'blue' (intermediate) by the NTFU, it is considered 'difficult' by komoot and 'pittig' (tough/challenging) by Dutch standards. It features demanding singletracks, significant elevation changes, and numerous turns, making it more suitable for experienced mountain bikers.
How long does it typically take to complete this mountain bike route?
On average, it takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete the entire 22.3 km route. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this mountain bike route?
You can expect a dynamic riding experience with challenging singletracks that wind over the Paaschberg, the Lochemse Berg, and the Kale Berg. The terrain features a high density of turns, relatively few straight sections, and notable long, steep climbing and descending sections. It's well-maintained but offers a robust experience.
What are the main natural features or viewpoints along the way?
The route traverses dense forests and irregular hedgerows, offering a rich and varied landscape. You'll find scenic views, particularly from the Lochemse Berg and the Schuilhut (shelter) on top of the Kaleberg Summit, which are also great resting spots. The area is characterized by lush greenery and rural farmlands.
Where can I park to access the Loop Lochem - Purple Route?
Specific parking locations are often found near the start points of the route. Look for designated parking areas in Lochem, especially near the forested sections where the trail begins. Many riders start near the Lochem MTB Trail – Pump Track & Dirt Jumps or other access points to the trail network.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?
No, you do not need a permit to ride this trail, and there are no entrance fees. It is freely accessible to the public. The route is part of the Nationaal Landschap De Graafschap, which is generally open for recreational use.
Is the Loop Lochem - Purple Route dog-friendly?
While the trail passes through natural areas, specific regulations for dogs can vary. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in forested areas and near wildlife. Always clean up after your dog to maintain the trail's cleanliness.
What is the best time of year to mountain bike this route?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with moderate temperatures and beautiful foliage. During wet periods, some sections might become muddy, adding to the challenge. Always check local weather conditions before you go.
Does this mountain bike route connect to other trails in the area?
Yes, this route is part of the broader Achterhoekse MTB network. Experienced riders can connect to other trails for longer rides. For example, you'll encounter sections that connect to the Lochem–Vorden Connecting Trail, allowing for extended adventures.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms near the trail?
The route is located near Lochem, a town where you can find various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and restrooms. It's a good idea to plan your stops in town before or after your ride, as facilities directly on the trail are limited to natural resting spots like the shelter on the Kale Berg.
What makes this route stand out among other mountain bike trails?
The Loop Lochem - Purple Route was recognized as the 'Best new MTB Trail of 2020/2021' at the MTB Trail Awards. It effectively utilizes the modest 'mountains' of Lochem—the Paaschberg, Lochemse Berg, and Kale Berg—to create substantial elevation changes, which is quite remarkable for the generally flat Dutch landscape, offering a uniquely challenging and engaging ride.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Today, another ride in the Netherlands was on the agenda. We had been planning it for a week, so we set off there today, despite the less than ideal weather. We didn't even manage to arrive in Lochem in the dry. Because of the rain, we went to a coffee shop to pass the time. After coffee, we went back to the starting point and unloaded, relatively dry😁🙈 Then we finally got going... despite all the rain, the lines were surprisingly grippy and firm, they were really easy to ride, I hadn't expected that. And when the first section was successfully completed, we transferred to the second section. We took shelter at the edge of the forest for the first time... God damn rain... ☔️🌧️ And then we continued... because of all the dirt and mud, my drive was already making noises... the poor chain... but there's no turning back, it has to go through this too 😁
The Achterhoek - the so-called "back corner" of Holland is just across the border in Gelderland and can be reached really quickly and easily from North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony. The prejudice that the flat country of the Netherlands could never be suitable for mountain biking still persists. Dear people, come to the Achterhoek and let yourself be convinced otherwise! The approximately 21 km long mountain bike route around Lochem is one of the top 10 routes in Holland and with a total of 295 meters in altitude is anything but boring. (Komoot shows a lot less, but the indicated 295 hm feels much more realistic...😉). I've tested quite a few MTB routes in the Netherlands and this one definitely has the potential to become my favourite. Even if I cursed like a pipe sparrow on some pretty steep climbs, I was always rewarded with a downhill that made me grin from ear to ear. Especially around the Lochemse Berg and the Kale Berg, the trails are simply a pleasure! The long trail sections of the route are in top condition - regardless of whether they are rooty sections or perfectly shaped flow trails. And between the somewhat demanding parts, there are always sections where you can take a breather and enjoy the tranquil landscape between fields and meadows. In addition, everything is very well signposted. For me a perfect and varied mix according to my taste! Oh, yes, I know, this time there are far fewer photos here than usual, and no real top shots either. But I was really busy driving and didn't feel like stopping all the time, so please forgive me... 😉 And here is the detailed blog article about my short trip to the Achterhoek in Gelderland: https://www.couchaway.de/achterhoek-gelderland/
Nature of the route: The Lochem mountain bike route takes you across the Paaschberg, the Lochemse Berg, and the Kale Berg. At almost 50 meters, the Lochemse Berg is the highest of the three. By Dutch standards, the route is quite challenging due to the relatively steep elevation changes. Beautiful in the autumn sunshine. It remains magnificent here too!
Visited Lochem beforehand for quality products; Roemar; coffee and tea specials 🤗 + local bakery; Dick ten Broeke for delicious artisanal top-quality bread and pastries 😋 MTB route Lochem-Barchem, which was also a top-quality route, delicious…….. Upon arrival, ONE BIG, WELL-CAREFUL SURPRISE….!!!!! 250th completed activity, SPONTANEOUSLY celebrated…..💕🥳🎁 So here it is; Thank you for all the wonderful moments, your kind words, and the fun. Your presence, cards, flowers, and gifts made this party unforgettable. Thank you so much for being at all our parties! WE really appreciated it and are still enjoying it immensely. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH 🙏 "It was an unforgettable day, thank you for your contribution!" "What a fantastic party, thank you for being there!" On to the next 250 😊
Great bike ride, but numbers give a better representation of performance. A good and catchy CAMPAIGN STRATEGY or a "Haagse Bluff"!!! To burn the calories in one hamburger (approximately 600 kcal), you have to work in the garden for about two hours. That's far too short for the whole garden, so I decided to go cycling 🤔 Yes, burning 600 calories is a lot, especially depending on the activity and its duration, but it's also achievable with strenuous sports like running, cycling, or walking… All of this worked out miraculously. Later, I'll have something other than…ONE HAMBURGER. Maybe two VEGGIE schnitzels??? The Purple MTB route in Lochem is a fantastic route, highly recommended 👍🍀
Wonderful. A few climbs, but you are always rewarded on the descent, it's one of the best 😁
A cocktail of athletic ambitions in a healthy, green setting!!! My obsessive urge to exercise is no longer suppressible. A mental Prozac shot from sun exposure during outdoor recreation is addictive at best!!! And then you want more, and more… Weather conditions act like a green wave on a healthy mind ✅. A wonderful round of Barchem/Lochem 🥰 with all the beneficial ingredients…
Great beautiful day …..for a ‘Cool Tour’ The Lochem mountain bike route has a number of beautiful and challenging singletracks that take you successively over the Paaschberg, the Lochemse Berg and the Kale Berg. By Dutch standards, the route is quite tough due to the relatively steep altitude differences and is not a route for beginner mountain bikers. The surroundings are characterized by a rich variety in the landscape. The dense forests, gnarled hedges and rich ditch banks form an ideal backdrop for this ‘cool’ signposted mountain bike route. Tonight, we will enjoy this ‘Cool Pear’ 🎂😋