4.6
(1538)
5,013
riders
301
rides
Mountain bike trails around Dam Heyda offer a diverse range of routes centered around the reservoir in Ilm-Kreis. The area features a mix of terrain, including paths along the lake, through surrounding forests, and across rolling hills. Mountain bikers can expect varied surfaces from gravel tracks to singletrack, with elevation changes suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(3)
12
riders
8.58km
00:39
60m
60m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2
riders
17.5km
01:34
330m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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5.0
(1)
3
riders
21.0km
01:54
390m
390m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(7)
20
riders
11.5km
00:56
150m
150m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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A lake, forest, fields and small villages in the surrounding area, gastronomy at the lake and berries and mushrooms in the forests
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Beautiful circular walk around the dam 🖖
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Beautiful circular walk around the dam 🖖
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Beautiful trail S1-S2, often through tall grass. In many places you can get right to the water.
2
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The ponds are located between Ilmenau and Lanwegen. The easiest way to get there is from the parking lot in front of Lanwegen (from Ilmenau) via the street and always straight on. Often used for dog walking, so be careful in the following narrow passages.
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Beautiful small ponds with opportunities to bring a snack.
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There are over 300 mountain bike trails available around Dam Heyda, offering a wide variety of routes for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops around the reservoir to more challenging long-distance rides through the surrounding region.
The trails around Dam Heyda cater to various skill levels. You can find 49 easy routes, 202 moderate routes, and 61 difficult routes. This means there are plenty of options whether you're looking for a relaxed ride or a more demanding challenge.
Yes, Dam Heyda offers several beginner-friendly mountain bike trails. An excellent option is the Heyda Reservoir – Heyda Reservoir loop from Bücheloh, an easy 7.1-mile (11.5 km) path that provides a scenic and relaxed ride around the reservoir.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, consider the Werra Spring Fehrenbach – Höllteich loop from Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. This difficult 69.3-mile (111.5 km) trail leads through varied landscapes and typically takes about 9 hours to complete. Another difficult option is the Großer Streichteich – Heyda Reservoir loop from Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe, spanning 32.2 miles (51.8 km) with significant elevation changes.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Dam Heyda are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Popular loop options include the Heyda Reservoir Dam – Heyda Reservoir loop from Ilm-Kreis and the Heyda Reservoir – Heyda Reservoir loop from Bücheloh.
Many trails offer scenic views of the Heyda Reservoir and its dam. You might also encounter natural features like Old Tree Stumps on the Lake Shore, and various forest paths. The area provides a mix of reservoir-side scenery and woodland environments.
Yes, you can find places to refuel near the trails. The Riverdam Beer Garden & Steakhouse at the Heyda Reservoir is a convenient option for a meal or a drink after your ride. There are also various rest and shelter huts in the surrounding forests.
The mountain bike trails around Dam Heyda are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1400 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic reservoir-side paths, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Mountain biking around Dam Heyda is generally enjoyable from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are dry. While specific conditions vary, the reservoir and forest trails offer pleasant riding during these seasons. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, the easier routes around the Heyda Reservoir are suitable for families. The Heyda Reservoir – Heyda Reservoir loop from Bücheloh is an easy, relatively flat path that offers a pleasant ride for all ages, allowing families to enjoy the scenery together.
While specific parking locations are not detailed in every route description, trailheads for routes like those starting from Ilm-Kreis or Bücheloh typically have designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check the specific tour page on komoot for detailed access and parking information before your visit.


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