4.7
(43)
751
riders
18
rides
Gravel biking around Heerhugowaard features a landscape characterized by expansive polders, coastal dikes, and significant dune areas such as the Schoorlse Duinen. The region offers varied terrain, from flat agricultural lands to undulating paths through forested dunes. These diverse surfaces provide conditions suitable for gravel biking, including smooth dike paths and sandy forest trails.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
5.0
(5)
219
riders
94.6km
06:12
180m
180m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
210
riders
53.8km
03:27
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(12)
139
riders
42.9km
02:41
60m
60m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.6
(16)
170
riders
68.1km
04:13
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
67
riders
55.0km
04:01
90m
90m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The paths are well asphalted for cycling through the dunes. It goes through a nature reserve with a viewpoint.
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The upper dunes are completely closed from March 1st to July as it is a breeding area. You can only go completely around, partly also via the road! It is annoying when Komoot keeps trying to lead you back to the closed path and doesn't suggest an alternative! The announcement that the path is 1.2 km to our right doesn't help!
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Nice little place, great starting point for endless beautiful beach, dune and polder walks 🍀🥾🤩🥰👍!
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Beautiful relaxing environment, especially during this period.
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Cycling on unpaved MTB trails is prohibited after 10:30 AM. Paved bike paths are no problem.
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beautiful path through unique landscapes
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There are over 20 gravel bike routes in the Heerhugowaard area, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options. You'll find 5 easy, 12 moderate, and 5 difficult trails to explore.
Gravel biking around Heerhugowaard offers a range of difficulties. You'll find routes suitable for all levels, from easy paths along coastal dikes to more challenging trails through the undulating terrain of the Schoorl Sand Dunes. There are 5 easy, 12 moderate, and 5 difficult routes available.
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Heerhugowaard offers several extensive gravel routes. One challenging option is the Path on Top of the Dike – Heemskerk Beach loop from Centrum, which spans nearly 98 km. Another difficult route is the Schoorl Sand Dunes – Path on Top of the Dike loop from Heiloo, covering about 96 km.
The region's gravel bike trails are characterized by diverse terrain. You'll encounter smooth paths atop coastal dikes, expansive polder landscapes, and more undulating, sandy trails within significant dune areas like the Schoorl Sand Dunes. This mix provides varied conditions, from open, flat sections to forested paths.
Yes, there are 5 easy gravel bike routes around Heerhugowaard, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes often feature flatter terrain and less technical surfaces, making them accessible for all skill levels.
Many routes offer beautiful scenery. You can find highlights like the White sand dunes in the Schoorlse Duinen, the Schoorl Climbing Dune, and a view from the highest dune in the Netherlands. The Schoorl Sand Dunes – Schoorlse Duinen Forest Trail loop from Alkmaar is a popular choice for navigating through these unique dune and forest landscapes.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Schoorlse Duinen Forest Trail – Schoorl Sand Dunes loop from Schelphoek and the J.C.J. van Speijk Lighthouse – Egmond aan Zee loop from Alkmaar Noord.
The gravel biking experience around Heerhugowaard is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, from coastal dikes with open views to the unique dune and forest trails of the Schoorlse Duinen.
Yes, the region features several beautiful lakes and water bodies. You might encounter highlights such as Zomerdel Lake (Geestmerambacht), Dune lake, or Dijkstaller Pond, which add to the scenic appeal of the rides.
The varied terrain of Heerhugowaard, with its coastal dikes and dune areas, makes it suitable for gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Even in winter, many paths remain rideable, though conditions on sandy dune trails might be softer.
Yes, there are 5 difficult gravel bike routes for experienced riders seeking a challenge. These include longer distances and potentially more demanding terrain. The Path on Top of the Dike – Heemskerk Beach loop from Centrum is a prime example, covering nearly 98 km with significant elevation changes.
Absolutely. The Schoorlse Duinen is a prominent feature of the region's gravel biking. Routes like the Schoorl Sand Dunes – Schoorlse Duinen Forest Trail loop from Alkmaar and the Schoorlse Duinen Forest Trail – Schoorl Sand Dunes loop from Schelphoek specifically navigate through this unique landscape of forests and sand dunes.


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