The best gravel rides around Herten
4.5
(169)
723
riders
19
rides
Gravel biking around Herten offers a unique blend of natural landscapes and repurposed industrial sites within the Ruhr region. The terrain features expansive green areas, former colliery spoil tips like Halde Hoheward, and serene nature reserves such as Naturschutzgebiet Telgenbusch. Cyclists can navigate through varied environments, including the unique swamp landscape of Schlosswald and along former railway lines converted into cycling paths. This diverse topography provides a range of gravel biking experiences, from challenging climbs to leisurely rides.
Best gravel…
Last updated: September 1, 2026
4.6
(49)
161
riders
40.8km
02:43
240m
240m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(22)
122
riders
56.7km
04:17
390m
390m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.6
(21)
87
riders
25.4km
01:57
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
21
riders
34.1km
02:41
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
30
riders
30.7km
01:33
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Ruhr area was once crisscrossed by many railway lines, on which coal and coke, steel and iron were transported. With the decline of mining and the closure of the collieries, many of these railway lines were decommissioned and dismantled. Some now serve as so-called "railway embankment cycle paths" and lead through the landscape with little gradient and relatively few crossings, away from road traffic. One such railway embankment cycle path is the Allee des Wandels, which was established on the colliery railway between Westerholt and Herten. The cycle path combines a beautiful old town center and themes of mining on its route – from the remains of a colliery, to small or former spoil heaps, up to a large spoil heap. If you complete it as a large loop, two water castles with their park grounds and public art are also included. The main route is about 10.1 km long, the detour on the Kunstmeile to Recklinghausen is approx. 2.6 kilometers. With a tour through the Herten castle park, a circular route of almost 21 kilometers can be completed.
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In 2001, the hard coal mine Zeche Ewald was closed after more than 150 years of operation. Today it is a location for leisure, culture, vintage car culture (Motorworld) and events. The two former headframes bear witness to the industrial past. From the Hoheward spoil heap, you have photogenic views of the two headframes.
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The Horizon Observatory is a cool thing. There is a slanted equator arc that divides the Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres and a meridian arc that divides the sky into morning and afternoon. With the help of sighting marks, you can observe solstices, day and year seasons. Unfortunately, the interior surface is not accessible due to repair work until 2027, so you can only view and photograph the massive arcs.
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As part of the Green Infrastructure funding program, the Münster District Government provided EU funding for the AktivLinearPark project in Hoheward Landscape Park. The project budget was approximately €4.4 million. Based on the Emscherland 2020 Integrated Action Plan, the Ruhr Regional Association (RVR) developed the AktivLinearPark together with the cities of Herten and Recklinghausen for the Hoheward Landscape Park. The AktivLinearPark was officially opened on October 30, 2022.
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A straight blue line in a green landscape—that could be either the Emscher River or the Rhine-Herne Canal. This spatial and formal proximity is no coincidence: To make room for the (clean) canal water used for shipping, the Emscher had to be diverted northward around 100 years ago, and the canal was allowed to fill its former riverbed. Such drastic changes to the landscape have long-lasting effects. Now, the Emscher is given as much natural space as is possible within the constraints of its heavily embanked course. But the surrounding landscape can also increasingly revert to what it was in pre-industrial times: swamp forests that regularly experience flooding. This makes an important contribution to both nature conservation and flood protection.
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The singing rock, which you have to knock on to hear its music. The wonderful view is not to be missed.
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Emscher Promenade from Herne to Castrop Rauxel
3
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From here you have a great view of the mine.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Herten?
Herten offers a diverse mix of terrain for gravel biking. You'll find routes that traverse expansive green areas, former colliery spoil tips like Halde Hoheward, and serene nature reserves such as Naturschutzgebiet Telgenbusch. Many trails also utilize former railway lines, providing mostly flat and well-paved sections. This blend allows for experiences ranging from challenging climbs to leisurely rides through unique swamp landscapes and industrial heritage sites.
Are there any easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or families in Herten?
Yes, Herten has several easy routes. The Herten Castle Park – Westerholt Historic Village loop from NSG Hertener Emscherbruch is an easy 13.1-mile (21.1 km) path that explores the tranquil Schlosspark Herten and the Emscherbruch nature reserve, offering predominantly paved paths suitable for all fitness levels. The Schlosspark itself is known for its gentle routes.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I can see along the gravel bike trails?
Herten's trails often pass by fascinating landmarks. You can explore repurposed industrial sites like the Hoheward Landscape Park, which features artistic installations and the Horizon Observatory. The region also boasts historic castles such as Herten Castle and Westerholt Castle. Many routes also follow former railway lines, offering glimpses into the region's industrial past.
Are there any longer or more challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Hoheward and König Ludwig Trail Loop is a difficult 25.4-mile (40.8 km) route that combines the challenging terrain of Halde Hoheward with sections of the König-Ludwig-Trasse. This route offers significant elevation gains and expansive views.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available in Herten?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Herten are designed as loops. For example, the Hugo-Bahn Signalman's House – Herten Castle and Park loop from Herten (Westf) is a moderate 22.2-mile (35.7 km) circular trail that takes you through Herten Castle and its park. Another option is the Köllnischer Wald – Pfingstsee loop from Herten (Westf), a moderate 56.7-mile (91.4 km) route.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Herten?
The gravel biking routes in Herten are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Many visitors praise the unique blend of natural landscapes and industrial heritage, as well as the varied terrain that caters to different skill levels. Over 500 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the area, highlighting its popularity.
Can I find routes that incorporate former railway lines for a smoother ride?
Yes, Herten and the broader Ruhr area are known for utilizing disused railway lines, such as the König-Ludwig-Trasse and Erzbahntrasse, as part of their extensive cycling network. These paths are generally flat, well-paved, and offer an easier riding experience, often connecting various industrial heritage sites and green areas. The Hoheward and König Ludwig Trail Loop, for instance, includes sections of the König-Ludwig-Trasse.
Are there any routes that pass by significant natural reserves?
Certainly. Herten is home to several beautiful natural reserves. The Herten Castle Park – Westerholt Historic Village loop from NSG Hertener Emscherbruch explores the natural beauty of the Emscherbruch nature reserve. Additionally, the Naturschutzgebiet Telgenbusch, a nearly 50-hectare reserve, offers idyllic natural escapes perfect for cycling.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Herten?
Herten's gravel bike trails can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in the green spaces. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Even in winter, many of the well-maintained paths, especially those on former railway lines, can be ridden, offering a different perspective on the industrial landscape and natural areas.
Are there any routes that offer views of the wider Ruhr region?
Yes, particularly routes that ascend the former colliery spoil tips. Landschaftspark Hoheward, for example, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Ruhr region from its elevated positions. The Horizon Observatory on Hoheward is a specific highlight known for its panoramic vistas.
Can I find gravel bike routes that include canal paths?
Yes, the broader Herten area, being part of the Ruhr region, features routes that incorporate canal paths. The Rhein-Herne Canal – Henrichenburg Boat Lift loop from Herten (Westf) is a moderate 63.2-mile (101.7 km) route that allows you to cycle alongside the Rhein-Herne Canal and visit the impressive Henrichenburg Boat Lift.
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