4.7
(109)
511
riders
81
rides
Gravel biking around Neusiß, a village on the northeastern edge of the Thuringian Forest, offers diverse terrain for riders. The area is situated on a plateau approximately 400 meters above sea level, bordered by the valleys of the Reichenbach and Zahme Gera rivers. To the south lies the 532-meter-high Weißer Stein mountain, and to the east are the foothills of the Reinsberge. This topography provides a mix of ascents, descents, and scenic routes, featuring well-graded gravel roads, forest roads, and…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.6
(45)
174
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
riders
55.2km
03:56
1,050m
1,050m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(5)
11
riders
23.7km
01:36
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
16
riders
34.0km
02:03
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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It's a great place for hiking.
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I can highly recommend this area - it's so great, interesting and varied.
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Comfortable pass ride with moderate gradients.
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Comfortable pass ride, the gradient is kept well within limits.
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Just before Ilmenau, on the section of the Ilm Cycle Path along the former Langewiesen railway line, this rest area with a covered picnic hut invites you to take a relaxing break. Benches and a table are available here – ideal for a quick snack in the shade before heading into town. A perfect stopover for cyclists and hikers looking to enjoy the last few meters to Ilmenau.
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A very beautiful, natural trail with singletrack sections, but now partially leveled and damaged by forestry work. Still worth a ride, though 👍
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There are over 90 gravel bike trails around Neusiß, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy rides to challenging routes through the Thuringian Forest.
The terrain around Neusiß is diverse, situated on a plateau bordered by river valleys and the foothills of the Reinsberge. You can expect a mix of ascents and descents, well-graded gravel roads, forest roads, and natural paths. The region is known for its 'Thuringian gravel summit moments' and varied surfaces.
Yes, Neusiß offers a few easy gravel routes. For a moderate option that's not overly strenuous, consider the View of the Autobahn Bridge – Gera Cycle Path near Plaue loop from Geraberg, which follows parts of the Gera Cycle Path. There are 3 easy routes and 39 moderate routes in total, providing good options for less experienced riders.
Experienced gravel bikers will find plenty of challenging options. A difficult route with significant elevation gain is Plänckner's Viewpoint – Highest Point of the Rennsteig loop from Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. Another demanding option is the Gera Cycle Path near Plaue – Gera Cycle Path near Arnstadt loop from Geraberg. In total, there are 50 difficult routes to explore.
The gravel biking routes around Neusiß are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 130 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, scenic landscapes, and the network of well-maintained gravel and forest roads that allow for true 'Thuringian gravel summit moments'.
Yes, the region offers several viewpoints and landmarks. You might encounter the Kickelhahn Tower or the Carl-Eduard Tower on Hohe Warte, both offering panoramic views. Some routes also provide a View of the Lütsche Reservoir and quarry from Schlossbergkanzel.
Many of the gravel routes around Neusiß are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Ilmtal Cycle Path Near Ilmenau – Pennewitz Airfield loop from Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe is a popular circular route.
The Thuringian Forest region is generally enjoyable for gravel biking from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are dry. While specific seasonal data isn't provided, these months typically offer the best conditions for exploring the varied terrain.
Yes, for those interested in more technical riding, there are bike parks and dedicated trails nearby. You can find highlights like the Roda Forest Trail or the Trailpark Lindenberg, Playline, which offer specific mountain biking experiences.
Neusiß is a small village, and while the broader Thuringian Forest region has some public transport options, direct connections to Neusiß itself might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for connections to nearby larger towns like Ilmenau or Arnstadt, and plan your route accordingly if relying on public transport.
While specific parking locations for Neusiß are not detailed, many routes in the region, especially those starting from larger towns or popular trailheads, typically offer designated parking areas. For routes starting from Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe, for instance, you would generally find suitable parking facilities.
Neusiß itself is a small village with rural charm, so amenities might be limited. However, the broader Thuringian Forest region and nearby towns like Ilmenau or Plaue offer various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. You might also find mountain inns like the Bobhütte Mountain Inn on Lindenberg along some routes.


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