4.5
(980)
5,164
riders
194
rides
Touring cycling around Hassel-Vorsperre features routes that navigate the pre-dam of the Rappbode Reservoir within the Harz mountains. The region is characterized by extensive forests, varied terrain, and gentle hills, with routes often following reservoir banks. Cyclists encounter mostly paved surfaces, alongside some sections with loose ground, offering diverse riding conditions. Elevation gains range from minimal to over 3,000 feet, providing options for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.6
(5)
24
riders
33.4km
02:19
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
16
riders
10.5km
00:41
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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17
riders
58.5km
04:36
1,060m
1,060m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
22.1km
01:41
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
3
riders
24.9km
01:38
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Barely visible from the road, and not signposted.
2
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From the Rappbode Dam, you have breathtaking views over dense forests, rolling hills, and the shimmering water. The surrounding nature invites you to linger, hike, and breathe deeply.
3
0
A complete Western town has been recreated here, complete with a saloon, Main Street, and everything else. Special events also take place on weekends.
3
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The shop doesn't look that good, but the food was good
1
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The unique Stiege Stave Church, once abandoned and subject to vandalism, was saved thanks to the commitment of the local community and an association founded in 2014 and successfully relocated to a new location in 2021. Further information and opening hours can be found here: https://www.stabkirche-stiege.de/startseite.html.
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Stieger Castle is one of the few remaining buildings from the early High Middle Ages. Originally probably built as a hunting lodge for Henry I around 919, it later served as a fortified residence for the Counts of Blankenburg-Reinstein. Today, a cozy castle café with homemade cakes and a beer cellar invites you to linger. For the café's opening hours, click here: https://schloss-stiege.de/index.php/willkommen.html
1
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Across the wide fields you have a magnificent view of the Brocken.
0
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The "largest Western town in Germany" invites you to adventure. Even Billy the Kid and Wyatt Earp are said to have been seen here. You can find more information and opening hours here: https://www.pullmancityharz.de/.
1
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There are over 190 touring cycling routes in the Hassel-Vorsperre region, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The terrain around Hassel-Vorsperre is diverse, featuring extensive forests, gentle hills, and routes that often follow the banks of the reservoir. You'll find mostly paved surfaces, but some sections may include loose ground, catering to both touring and gravel cycling experiences.
The routes in Hassel-Vorsperre cater to all skill levels. You can find easy rides with minimal elevation gain, such as the St. Salvator Church – View of the Brocken loop from Stadt Hasselfelde, as well as more challenging routes with significant elevation, some climbing over 3,000 feet.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic reservoir views, and the well-maintained paths through dense forests.
Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Rappbode Forebay – View of Hasselvorsperre loop from Stadt Hasselfelde, which offers scenic views of the reservoir.
Absolutely. Cycling tours frequently offer breathtaking views over the dense forests, rolling hills, and the expansive water bodies of the reservoirs. Routes like the St. Salvator Church – View of the Brocken loop from Stadt Hasselfelde provide views towards higher elevations like the Brocken.
Yes, there are 42 easy routes perfect for families and beginners. These routes typically have minimal elevation gain and follow well-maintained paths, making them enjoyable for all ages. The circular path around the Hassel-Vorsperre itself is a good example of a leisurely ride.
The region offers several interesting cultural stops. You could cycle past Hasselvorsperre Dam (HWN 53), visit the reconstructed Western town of Pullman City Harz, or explore the Harzköhlerei Stemberghaus, a charcoal burning museum. The Pullman City Harz – Stiege stave church loop from Stadt Hasselfelde incorporates some of these cultural sites.
Yes, the Hassel-Vorsperre dam itself is a significant landmark, accessible to pedestrians and offering panoramic views. Many routes also pass by the Hassel Forebay, and you might encounter nature information boards describing local flora and fauna, such as along the Bee nature trail at the Hasseltalsperre dam.
While water sports are prohibited in the Hassel-Vorsperre due to its function in drinking water purification, you can find opportunities for swimming nearby. The idyllic Waldseebad Lido near Hasselfelde offers a refreshing break during warmer months and can be incorporated into a cycling tour.
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 60 difficult routes available. These often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances, such as the Rappbode Forebay – Trudenstein (HWN 17) loop from Hassel-Vorsperre, which covers over 36 miles with more than 3,000 feet of ascent.
Yes, the Hassel-Vorsperre region is integrated into the popular Harzer Wandernadel network. Checkpoint #53 is located at the Hasselvorsperre Dam, which is often accessible by bike and provides a scenic spot for a break and photo opportunity.


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