4.3
(504)
3,242
riders
77
rides
Mountain biking around Gerdsee, also known as Gérardmer, offers an extensive network of trails within the Vosges Mountains of northeastern France. The region is characterized by its large glacial lake, dense surrounding forests, and significant elevation changes, with some routes featuring over 900 meters of ascent. This diverse landscape provides varied terrain suitable for mountain biking, from forest paths to more open mountain sections.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.7
(72)
669
riders
34.6km
02:58
660m
660m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.1
(67)
266
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.7
(25)
141
riders
33.6km
03:10
820m
820m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.2
(10)
231
riders
35.1km
03:26
930m
930m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.6
(19)
128
riders
50.4km
04:30
1,130m
1,130m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Popular around Gerdsee
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Thatches, lakes and forests – Tour des Ballons des Vosges
Road Cycling Routes around Gerdsee
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Gravel biking around Gerdsee

Mountain Hikes around Gerdsee
Nice place to sit on the benches. And there is a snack bar and a (dirty) toilet building
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From here, you have a truly magnificent view and can reward yourself with a light meal at the summit restaurant. Unfortunately, the hotel at the summit is currently closed. (For about a year.) As of September 2025
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Here at the quay, there's a beautiful view the length of the lake, several boat rentals, a small free swimming area at the southern end, and a short promenade at the northern end that leads to the lido. Of course, you'll also find restaurants with lake views here.
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The paved road leading up to the start of the route. You can also take an extra loop at the photo. This is also where one of the most beautiful descents between Xonrupt and La Bresse ends.
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The biggest section is less fun than the descent next to it. Some sections are for the brave. And there's a tree lying across the route now.
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The initial tidal wave was reportedly up to 40 meters high and traveling at speeds of 70 km/h. It first reached the hamlets of Malpasset and Bozon, which were completely destroyed. About 20 minutes after the wall broke, it reached Fréjus, where the wave was still three meters high and buried large parts of the town in mud.
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The dam wall collapsed suddenly and completely on the night of December 2, 1959, at 9:13 p.m. The exact time of the collapse could be reconstructed because it is known when the power was cut off by the flood wave. The wall was almost completely eroded by the force of the water. Only a few sections of the wall on the right bank (as seen in the direction of flow) remained standing. Fragments of the wall, some the size of a house, lie scattered over a distance of several hundred meters downstream.
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The Sainte-Croix Dam (French: Barrage de Sainte-Croix) is a dam that dams the Verdon in France (Europe) on the border of the departments of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var to form the Lac de Sainte-Croix.
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Mountain biking around Gerdsee (Gérardmer) offers a range of trails. You'll find routes classified from easy (S0-S1 on the Single Track Scale) to moderate (S2) and difficult (S3-S6). Komoot lists 9 easy, 33 moderate, and 34 difficult mountain bike routes in the area, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Yes, there are mountain bike trails suitable for beginners. Komoot features 9 easy routes around Gerdsee. These trails typically have less demanding terrain and elevation changes, making them ideal for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride.
While the region is known for significant elevation changes, there are easier routes that can be suitable for families, especially those with some biking experience. Look for trails classified as 'easy' on komoot, which often follow less technical paths through the forests around the lake.
Yes, many mountain bike routes around Gerdsee are designed as loops. For example, the Wonderful view – Lake Longemer loop from Gérardmer is a popular moderate circular route. The region's network of trails often allows for varied loop configurations, letting you start and end in the same location.
The Gerdsee (Gérardmer) region, known as the 'Pearl of the Vosges,' is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the stunning glacial lake, dense surrounding forests, and various viewpoints. Highlights include Hohneck, a prominent summit, and the scenic Lake Lispach. Many trails offer panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains.
The best time for mountain biking in Gerdsee is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the trails are typically dry and accessible. The region's forests and lakes are particularly picturesque in spring and fall. Winter can bring snow, making some trails impassable or requiring specialized equipment.
Yes, parking is generally available in and around Gérardmer, especially near popular trailheads and the town center. Many routes start from Gérardmer, making it convenient to park your vehicle before heading out on the trails.
Many trails in the Vosges Mountains, including those around Gerdsee, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check local regulations for specific trails. Ensure your dog is fit enough for the chosen route's distance and elevation.
The mountain bike trails around Gerdsee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 500 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging elevation changes, and the stunning natural scenery, particularly the glacial lakes and dense forests of the Vosges Mountains.
Yes, the Gerdsee region is known for its challenging routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the Lake Longemer – Lake Longemer loop from Gérardmer is a difficult 26.1-mile trail with nearly 1000 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Croix Claudé Shelter – Gérardmer Lakes Tour loop from Gérardmer, which features over 900 meters of elevation gain.
While not explicitly detailed in the guide data, Gérardmer is a popular tourist destination in the Vosges Mountains. It is common for such areas to have local shops offering mountain bike and e-bike rentals. It's recommended to check with local sports shops or tourist information centers in Gérardmer for current rental options.


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