The best MTB trails around Pulvermaar
4.5
(1327)
4,279
riders
187
rides
Mountain biking around Pulvermaar offers routes through a unique volcanic landscape in Germany's Volcanic Eifel region. The area is characterized by the Pulvermaar, a well-preserved volcanic maar, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Riders can explore terrain shaped by ancient volcanic activity, including varied elevations and panoramic views. This geological history provides a distinct backdrop for mountain bike trails.
Best mountain bike trails around Pulvermaar
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Kennfuss-Maisch Spring – Pulvermaar loop from Gillenfeld, a 27.3 miles (44.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours to complete. This route offers a moderate challenge through the volcanic landscape.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is View of Schalkenmehrener Maar – View of the maar loop from Gillenfeld, a moderate 23.7 miles (38.1 km) path. It provides views of volcanic maars and surrounding forests.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Strohner Lava Bomb – Strohner Switzerland loop from Gillenfeld, a 20.4 miles (32.8 km) trail leading through the Strohner Lava Bomb area, often completed in about 2 hours 37 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Pulvermaar is defined by volcanic maars, dense beech forests, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Pulvermaar are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1200 reviews. More than 4000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Pulvermaar's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.7
(78)
199
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(33)
130
riders
44.0km
03:59
860m
860m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(14)
63
riders
37.8km
03:10
640m
640m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(14)
29
riders
32.8km
02:37
460m
460m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(5)
12
riders
30.3km
02:42
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Other adventures around Pulvermaar
Tips from the Community
....super great idea to offer drinks here. Thank you very much
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The Ulmen Maar lies 420 meters above sea level today, covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and is 36 meters deep. The bubbles at the maar's edge demonstrate that volcanism is still active. They bear witness to a turbulent past—but rest assured, there's no eruption in sight! A wall of various rocks and ash, up to 20 meters thick, surrounds the cone. For those interested, these testimonies to this explosive past are beautifully displayed in St. Matthias Church. This unique wall, with its different colored layers and rounded inclusions, is worth seeing for more than just geologists. The slopes of the maar basin are covered with a beautiful forest, which can be explored on a circular walk. A detour to the medieval castle ruins, from which the Crusaders once launched their campaigns, is recommended. The view from the crater rim over the maar and the Eifel beyond will take your breath away. Whether after a sweaty hike or a long drive, the blue of the Ulmer Eifel lake is all too tempting in summer. However, bathing in the maar is prohibited because it is designated as a nature and water protection area.
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Beautiful circular path in the shade suitable for wheelchairs/strollers
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Weinfelder Maar - Impressive Evidence of Explosive Geological History The Weinfelder Maar – also known as Totenmaar – is one of the three so-called Daun Maars. It is located about 2 kilometers from our district town of Daun, near the municipality of Schalkenmehren, between the Gemünden and Schalkenmehren Maars. It has a diameter of approximately 525 meters and a depth of 51 meters, making it the deepest of the three Daun Maars. It is the youngest and, at 487 meters above sea level, the highest of the three closely adjacent maars, which formed between 20,000 and 30,000 years ago. Text / Source: Natur- und Geopark Vulkaneifel GmbH, Mainzer Str. 25, Daun https://www.geopark-vulkaneifel.de/eifel/landschaft/maare-und-kraterseen/weinfelder-maar.html
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Weinfelder Maar The Weinfelder Maar, formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, is the highest of the three Daun Maars at 487 meters above sea level. The lake is 51 meters deep and has a diameter of 396 to 429 meters. An almost melancholic atmosphere surrounds the maar. Many legends surround the tranquil Eifel eye. A castle is said to have once stood on the site of the crater, where a count lived with his wife and only child. After returning home from a hunt, the castle had sunk as punishment for the woman's nastiness, and he found only a lake where a cradle miraculously floated his child safely to the shore. If you look at the dark surface of the water long enough, it is said that you can make out the outline of the castle. The German landscape painter Fritz von Wille was so fascinated by the Weinfelder Maar that he repeatedly immortalized it in his paintings. Among his favorite motifs was the small chapel on the north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin. It was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was ravaged by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who rings the bells inside by pulling the ropes can make a wish. To this day, the associated cemetery is maintained and used by the local community of Schalkenmehren. This is also where its second name, Totenmaar, comes from. Donkeys and goats have been introduced to the Weinfelder Maar to regulate vegetation. The maar's unique flora and fauna are protected. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, but a nearly two-kilometer-long path makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot. Parking: Guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Weinfelder Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Text / Source: GesundLand Vulkaneifel GmbH, Leopoldstr. 9 A, 54550 Daun https://www.eifel.info/a-weinfelder-maar
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A great trail! A few rocks, steps, long and flowy—everything's perfect 👍🏻 But watch out for hikers!
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Great trail! It has everything you need: roots, rocks, flow. Watch out for hikers—respect is key.
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Simply experience a wonderful piece of nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there around Pulvermaar?
The Pulvermaar region offers a vast network for mountain biking, with over 200 routes available. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging rides, all set within the unique volcanic landscape of the Eifel.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Pulvermaar?
Mountain bike trails around Pulvermaar feature a diverse volcanic landscape. You'll encounter varied terrain shaped by ancient volcanic activity, including rolling hills, dense beech forests, and paths circling the maars. Some routes offer panoramic views, while others might include technically challenging sections with rocks or flowing single tracks.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Pulvermaar area has trails suitable for beginners and families. For instance, the Pulvermaar – Barn Café loop from Gillenfeld is an easy 18.1 km route. The region's extensive network includes many easy paths, allowing riders of all skill levels to enjoy the scenic volcanic landscape.
Are there challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain and technical sections. The Vulkaneifel Trail Park, which encompasses the Pulvermaar area, boasts over 750 kilometers of trails with 17,500 meters of altitude difference, ensuring plenty of demanding options.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while mountain biking?
While mountain biking around Pulvermaar, you can explore several natural landmarks. The most prominent is the Pulvermaar itself, a well-preserved volcanic lake. Other notable features include the Burden Stone Pile (Lastahuddelhuppen) and the Ancient Beech Tree. Many trails also pass through lush forests and offer views of other volcanic maars.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Pulvermaar?
Yes, many mountain bike routes in the Pulvermaar area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the moderate Kennfuss-Maisch Spring – Pulvermaar loop from Gillenfeld (44 km) and the Strohner Lava Bomb – Strohner Switzerland loop from Gillenfeld (32.8 km).
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The mountain bike trails around Pulvermaar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1200 reviews. Riders frequently praise the unique volcanic landscape, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths that wind through dense forests and past stunning maars.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Pulvermaar?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for mountain biking in Pulvermaar. The weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery, with blooming flora or vibrant autumn foliage, enhances the riding experience. Summer can also be pleasant, especially for combining rides with a refreshing dip in the Pulvermaar natural swimming pool.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails?
While many outdoor areas in Germany are dog-friendly, specific regulations for mountain bike trails can vary. It's advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions on trails around Pulvermaar.
Are there places to eat or stay near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, the village of Gillenfeld, located directly by Pulvermaar, offers various options for food and accommodation. You'll find cafes, pubs, guesthouses, and restaurants where you can refuel and relax after your ride. The surrounding Eifel region also has numerous hotels and guesthouses.
Is there parking available for mountain bikers?
Yes, parking facilities are generally available in and around Gillenfeld, close to the main access points for the mountain bike trails around Pulvermaar. Specific parking areas are often signposted near trailheads or popular starting points.
What makes mountain biking in the Pulvermaar region unique?
Mountain biking in the Pulvermaar region is unique due to its distinctive volcanic landscape. Riders get to explore terrain shaped by ancient volcanic explosions, including the deep, well-preserved Pulvermaar itself, surrounded by a tuff wall and lush forests. This geological history provides a dramatic and varied backdrop for trails, offering a different experience compared to other regions.
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