The best gravel rides around Arosa

Arosa's gravel biking trails are predominantly in the moderate to difficult range, reflecting the high alpine environment. While there are no routes classified as 'easy' in our selection, you'll find 8 moderate and 18 difficult routes. This means most trails involve significant elevation changes and varied terrain, suitable for riders with some experience.

While many routes in Arosa are challenging, some offer a more accessible experience. For instance, the Lenzerheide – Easy forest trail loop from Vaz/Obervaz is classified as moderate and takes about 1 hour 34 minutes to complete, offering varied forest terrain without the most extreme climbs. It's a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

Gravel biking in Arosa offers breathtaking alpine scenery. You'll ride through dense forests, past serene lakes like the Obersee and Iselsee, and across mountain terrain with panoramic views of peaks reaching almost 3,000 meters. The region is known for its crisp alpine air and unspoiled natural setting, providing a dramatic backdrop for your rides.

Yes, Arosa's trails offer numerous scenic points. Many routes provide stunning panoramic views, especially from higher elevations. The Rot Tritt viewpoint – Obersee loop from Weisshorn, for example, offers fantastic vistas from the Weisshorn area. You can also visit the Weisshorn Summit (2,653 m) for unparalleled views, often accessible via cable car, which can be integrated into your biking plans.

Yes, the Arosa region features several beautiful waterfalls. While specific gravel routes might not pass directly by all of them, you can plan your ride to include highlights like the Schiabach, Schaftobel Waterfall, or Altein Waterfall. These natural attractions offer picturesque spots for a break during your ride.

Many of Arosa's gravel bike routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Ochsenalp Mountain Hut – Iselsee (Arosa Reservoir) loop from Arosa and the Rot Tritt viewpoint – Obersee loop from Weisshorn. These circular routes are convenient for exploration without needing shuttle services.

Gravel bike routes in Arosa vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter loops like the Lenzerheide – Easy forest trail loop from Vaz/Obervaz, which is about 10.5 miles (16.9 km) and takes around 1 hour 34 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Ochsenalp Mountain Hut – Iselsee (Arosa Reservoir) loop from Arosa, can be up to 19.9 miles (32.1 km) and take over 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the elevation.

Arosa is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train from Chur. The Arosa All-Inclusive Card, often provided to guests staying overnight, includes free use of local cable cars (like to the Hörnli and Weisshorn) and public transport, making it easy to access trailheads or extend your rides without needing a car.

The gravel biking experience in Arosa is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, from high alpine paths to dense forests and scenic lakes, as well as the challenging ascents and rewarding panoramic views. The well-maintained trail network and the stunning natural beauty of Graubünden are consistently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking longer adventures, Arosa and the surrounding area offer routes that can extend for several hours. For example, the Easy forest trail – Lenzerheide loop from Parpan is a difficult route spanning over 32 miles (51.8 km) and typically takes over 3 hours 40 minutes, providing an extensive exploration of the region's varied landscapes.

The best time for gravel biking in Arosa is typically during the summer and autumn months. From late spring to early autumn, the trails are clear of snow, and the alpine meadows are vibrant. The crisp alpine air and comfortable temperatures make for ideal riding conditions. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out, especially in shoulder seasons.