The best traffic-free bike rides around Grote Rietplas
4.5
(36)
449
riders
26
rides
Gravel biking around Grote Rietplas offers a diverse landscape characterized by recreational lakes, expansive green spaces, and partially wooded areas. The region features a mix of paved and unpaved segments, including technical singletracks, providing varied challenges for gravel cyclists. Minor elevation changes are present, with routes winding through forests and open sections along the lake's edge. This environment supports a range of outdoor activities, making it suitable for exploring on no traffic gravel bike trails.
Best no traffic gravel bike…
Last updated: October 2, 2026
21
riders
15.2km
01:06
30m
30m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
15
riders
42.0km
02:41
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
38.5km
02:30
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
19.2km
01:21
20m
20m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
37
riders
54.8km
03:25
110m
110m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Grote Rietplas
Tips from the Community
The dolmens are only a few meters from the parking lot by the road, reachable via a well-maintained path. There is a bench directly in front. The stones are therefore a beautiful destination even for wheelchair users or people with walking aids.
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The swimming spot is located in the Sleenerzand forest, between Noord-Sleen and Schoonoord and close to Emmen. The spot originally originated from sand extraction during the construction of the N381 and is a wonderfully clean swimming spot with a separate play pond for the little ones, with a spacious sandy beach. The spot is approximately 4 hectares in size and is shallow (with a slowly sloping bottom), making it very suitable for small children. The beach (which surrounds the entire spot) is cleaned daily. In short: ideal for a day out with your family!
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De Kleine Rietplas is located on the edge of the Wijk Rietlanden in Emmen. In addition to a sandy beach with a sunbathing lawn, you will find a restaurant and snack bar with a beautiful view of the lake from the terrace. There is also a playground, zip line, skateboard ramp, raft in the water, panna cage, observation tower, and canoe rental. In short; there is plenty to do for the whole family! There is free parking and showers are available. The area is cleaned regularly. De Kleine Rietplas is connected to the Grote Rietplas. The Grote Rietplas recreational area includes a surf and sailing lake, among other things. There are also beaches, sunbathing lawns, small harbors, a campsite, parking lots, a canoe course, and walking and cycling paths through the area. Various events are organized annually in the recreational area, such as RetroPop, the international Kite Festival, and the Rietplasloop. Parc Sandur is located on the southeast side of the lake. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/226344250/kleine-rietplas
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It's a beautiful place, with good paths/trails... I'll definitely be back.
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1
Attention, watch out ...Attention Jump
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1
Sleen is always great and good ways
1
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A really great round...always fun
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel bike trails around Grote Rietplas?
The trails around Grote Rietplas offer a varied experience, from paved sections suitable for all skill levels to unpaved segments and technical singletracks. You'll ride through wooded areas, open sections along the lake's edge, and even encounter minor elevation changes, jumps, and a rock garden on some routes. This mix makes it ideal for gravel biking.
How many traffic-free gravel bike routes are available in the Grote Rietplas area?
There are 17 traffic-free bike routes available in the Grote Rietplas area, catering to various skill levels. This includes 5 easy, 6 moderate, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring there's a suitable option for every gravel biker.
Are there any family-friendly, car-free gravel trails suitable for beginners around Grote Rietplas?
Yes, there are several easy, car-free routes perfect for families or beginners. A great option is the Grote Rietplas – Kleine Rietplas loop from Erica, which is approximately 15.8 km long and features minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride through scenic landscapes.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions I can see along the gravel bike trails?
The Grote Rietplas area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the Rietplas Park and the Kleine Rietplas, as well as a charming drawbridge over the water. The trails also pass through green spaces and wooded areas, offering plenty of picturesque spots.
Are there any cultural landmarks or points of interest near the gravel routes?
Absolutely! A notable landmark is the De Vuurvogel Sculpture, which serves as a wind chime at the entrance to Parc Sandur. You might also encounter ancient dolmens on some of the longer routes, such as the Kleine Rietplas – Dolmen D45 (Emmerdennen) loop from Zeldenrust.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Grote Rietplas?
The komoot community highly rates the Grote Rietplas area, with an average score of 4.49 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of paved and unpaved sections, and the peaceful, traffic-free environment that allows for an immersive outdoor experience.
Are there any longer, more challenging gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Dolmen D35 – Dolmen D30 loop from Emmen offer a difficult rating, spanning over 55 km with significant elevation changes. These routes incorporate more technical sections and longer distances.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Grote Rietplas?
Many of the gravel bike routes in the Grote Rietplas area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Grote Rietplas – Kleine Rietplas loop from Erica, which provides a complete circuit around the lakes.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while gravel biking in Grote Rietplas?
Given the area's natural setting with lakes, reed beds, and green spaces, you can expect to spot various bird species and other local wildlife. The peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails enhances the chances of observing animals in their natural habitat.
Are there any routes that combine lake views with forest sections?
Many routes in the Grote Rietplas area offer a beautiful combination of lake views and forest sections. The Winding Forest Path – MTB route Sleen loop from Emmen is a great example, taking you through extensive wooded areas while still providing access to the scenic waterways.
What is the longest traffic-free gravel bike route available?
The longest traffic-free gravel bike route listed is the Dolmen D35 – Dolmen D30 loop from Emmen, covering approximately 55.1 km. This route is rated as difficult and offers a substantial challenge for riders looking for an extended adventure.
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