Hoheward and König Ludwig Trail Loop

This gravel biking loop is approximately 40.8 kilometers (25.3 miles) long. Komoot estimates the duration to be around 2 hours and 42 minutes of active riding time, but this can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the sights.

The terrain is quite varied, offering a diverse gravel biking experience. You'll encounter a mix of gravel paths, forest paths, and some unpaved sections. The Hoheward section features 'terraced circular paths' with uphill and downhill riding, as well as areas with berms and small jumps. There's also a largely natural Cross-Country (XC) trail with narrow sections. Expect challenging climbs, fast descents, and potentially rocky or narrow pathways on more technical parts.

This route is generally rated as difficult. While some sections, like the Hoheward XC trail, have an S0/S1 Singletrack Scale rating (easy to slightly difficult), the overall loop includes challenging climbs and fast descents that require good fitness and advanced riding skills. It's not typically recommended for absolute beginners to gravel biking, but experienced riders will find it rewarding.

The loop offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty. Highlights include the View of Zeche Ewald, the impressive Hoheward Loading Tower, and the distinctive Dragon Bridge at Hoheward Spoil Heap. You'll also pass by Herner Meer, ride sections of the König Ludwig Trail, and see the Horizon Observatory on Hoheward.

The Hoheward and König Ludwig Trail Loop can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, but some sections might be muddy or icy, so check local conditions.

While specific parking lots aren't listed, the trail starts near the Ewald Colliery. This area is a common starting point for tours in the region and usually offers parking facilities. It's advisable to check for designated parking areas around the Ewald Colliery or other access points to Landschaftspark Hoheward before your visit.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the public trails within Landschaftspark Hoheward, including the purpose-built mountain bike trails. The park is designed for public recreation. However, always respect local regulations and signage, especially concerning trail usage and environmental protection.

While dogs are often allowed on public trails in the Ruhr area, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially given the varied terrain and potential for other cyclists and pedestrians. Some sections, particularly the purpose-built XC trails, might not be ideal for dogs due to speed and technical features. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.

Yes, this loop integrates with several other well-known paths in the region. You'll find yourself on sections of the Emscherparkradweg, the XC-Rundkurs Hoheward, and the König Ludwig Trasse. Other trails like Rund um Stuckenbusch, R10 [NRW], and the Emscher-Weg also intersect or run parallel to parts of this route, offering opportunities to extend or modify your ride.

You'll experience a unique landscape typical of the transformed industrial Ruhr area. The route beautifully blends industrial heritage sites, such as the Hoheward spoil heap, with green spaces and forests. Expect panoramic views from the spoil heap, sections through hills and forests along the König Ludwig path, and a compelling visual contrast between former industrial elements and revitalized natural environments.

This loop stands out for its effective repurposing of former industrial sites like the Hoheward spoil heap and the König Ludwig Trasse into recreational paths. It offers a distinctive riding experience through landscapes shaped by the region's mining history, combined with purpose-built trails like the 6.5-kilometer XC route on Hoheward. The varied terrain, including wider gravel paths, narrower singletracks, berms, and small jumps, provides pure riding pleasure and caters to a range of gravel biking preferences.