The best traffic-free bike rides around Östersund

There are 8 curated traffic-free gravel bike trails around Östersund featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels away from vehicle traffic.

Östersund's gravel trails offer a diverse landscape. You'll encounter a mix of charming forest paths, rural gravel roads, and sections along the shores of Lake Storsjön. The terrain varies from relatively flat lakeside stretches to more undulating, hilly forest trails, providing both playful downhills and challenging climbs.

While many routes offer a moderate challenge, the region's extensive network of paths includes easier sections. For a ride with varied terrain and beautiful views, consider the Stortorget Östersund – View of Östersund Waterfront loop from Jamtli, which is rated moderate and offers scenic waterfront vistas suitable for those looking for a less strenuous experience.

For those seeking a longer and more demanding ride, the Velo Rapide Bike Shop & Café loop from Kyrkås gamla kyrka is a difficult 51.8 km route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. This trail provides a significant challenge for experienced gravel bikers.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Östersund are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Östersund – Östersund Town Hall loop from Jamtli and the Linehäll Wooden Bridge loop from Brunflo, both offering scenic circular journeys.

The best time for gravel biking in Östersund is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the trails are generally dry and accessible, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The region's natural beauty, including lush forests and sparkling lakes, is at its peak.

Absolutely. Östersund's gravel trails often pass by stunning natural features. You can explore areas like Andersön Nature Reserve, known for its old pine forests and views of the Oviksfjällen mountains. Many routes also offer continuous views of Lake Storsjön, Sweden's fifth-largest lake, and its islands like Frösön.

Many routes start from accessible points with parking facilities. For instance, routes originating from Jamtli or near town centers often have nearby parking. For specific routes, checking the tour details on komoot will provide information on recommended starting points and potential parking options.

Yes, some routes incorporate or pass near places where you can refuel. For example, the Velo Rapide Bike Shop & Café loop from Kyrkås gamla kyrka explicitly mentions a bike shop and café, suggesting opportunities for a break. Östersund's strong outdoor culture means you'll often find amenities not far from popular trailheads.

Östersund is perfect for combining activities. Lake Storsjön, which many gravel routes skirt, offers numerous spots for wild swimming, especially during warmer months. Areas like Bynäset on Frösön Island, known for its paths and views, also feature beaches where you can take a refreshing dip after your ride.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Östersund, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning lakeside and forest scenery, and the diverse terrain that keeps rides interesting and engaging.

Frösön Island, connected to Östersund by a bridge, offers excellent gravel biking opportunities. The Bynäset peninsula on Frösön is particularly popular, featuring approximately 8 km of varied paths that are great for trail cycling and gravel biking, providing rewarding views of Lake Storsjön and the distant Oviksfjällen mountains.