4.6
(3141)
17,575
riders
266
rides
Mountain biking in Kernwald offers a diverse and thrilling environment, characterized by a unique landscape sculpted by a prehistoric landslide from the Stanserhorn. The region features significant elevation changes and technical sections, with many large boulders and extensive forests. This area, situated between the Swiss cantons of Obwalden and Nidwalden, provides varied terrain for mountain bike trails.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.1
(11)
87
riders
26.2km
02:49
1,100m
1,100m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.7
(3)
15
riders
17.6km
01:51
640m
640m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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7
riders
8.50km
00:50
300m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(20)
102
riders
29.6km
03:29
1,280m
1,280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.7
(9)
90
riders
18.8km
02:03
890m
890m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Beautiful place. Farm with pitches. Good amenities with showers/toilets, a small kitchen. Everything is very rustic and stylish. There's even a bed in the barn for pilgrims. Very fair price! And the hostess is incredibly sweet...Heidrun is legendary! 😊
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The Mittler-Aegerten farm is home to chickens and ostriches. The Barmettler family runs the diverse farm with passion and regularly offers tours for interested visitors.
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It's open again after repairs. The character of the old Polish Trail has been preserved. I rode there yesterday on my bike. It's easily rideable in both directions.
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The Polenweg section Rickmettlen - Wegen is currently being restored and is currently diverted.
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There is a fountain here to refill the bidon!
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Beautiful serpentine path built by the interned Poles in WW2. When it's wet it's rather slippery on the round stones.
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Kernwald offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails, characterized by a unique landscape shaped by a prehistoric landslide from the Stanserhorn. You'll find significant elevation changes, technical sections, and extensive forests with many large boulders. The region provides options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, Kernwald has approximately 40 easy mountain bike routes. While the region is known for its challenging terrain, there are still options for less experienced riders to enjoy the scenic landscape.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Kernwald offers many difficult trails. Consider the Descent to St. Jakob – Chilenwald DH loop, a 25.4 km route with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, or the Downhill from Schrotenegg – Great Polentrail loop, which covers 29.6 km with over 1,200 meters of elevation change.
Many of the mountain bike routes in Kernwald are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Lake Sarnen – Wichelsee loop is a moderate 39.1 km circular ride.
Kernwald's landscape is distinctive, featuring many large boulders from an ancient landslide. You can also visit the idyllic Gerzensee Pond, a unique lake fed solely by groundwater. The Chilenwald DH – View of Stanserhorn loop offers views of the prominent Stanserhorn mountain.
Yes, the Kernwald region offers family-friendly attractions. The Chärwaldräuber adventure trail runs through Kernwald, providing an engaging experience for children with various posts and tasks. It leads to the Zubersrüti fireplace and Gerzensee Lake, ideal for family outings.
The mountain bike routes in Kernwald are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,900 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the challenging ascents and descents, and the unique natural beauty of the forest.
The best season for mountain biking in Kernwald is generally from spring through autumn. During these months, the weather is more favorable, and the trails are typically clear of snow, allowing for optimal riding conditions.
Absolutely. The Chilenwald DH – View of Stanserhorn loop specifically highlights views of the Stanserhorn. Additionally, the Renggpass – Great trail and views loop is known for its scenic vistas.
There are over 270 mountain bike routes available in Kernwald, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Nidwalden, where Kernwald is located, is praised for its accessibility, including numerous mountain railways that facilitate access to various tours and single trails. Specific public transport details for individual trailheads would need to be checked locally.
Yes, the wider region boasts historical landmarks such as the St. Anton chapel (built in 1639) and Maichäppeli (first mentioned in 1676), adding cultural depth to the natural exploration of Kernwald.


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