The best traffic-free bike rides in Chko Jeseníky

Chko Jeseníky offers a wide selection of gravel bike trails designed to keep you away from traffic. There are 18 routes available in this guide, with a total network spanning over 1200 km suitable for gravel riding across the region.

The terrain in Chko Jeseníky is highly varied, offering everything from deep valleys with wild mountain streams to rounded mountain ridges and picturesque sub-mountain meadows. You'll ride through extensive forests, encounter unique peat bogs like those in the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve, and even experience high mountain treeless areas around peaks like Praděd. Some routes may include challenging sections with significant elevation gain, where you might need to push your bike.

The best time for gravel biking in Chko Jeseníky is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the trails are clear of snow and ice, allowing you to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes. Summer offers lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, while autumn brings stunning fall foliage.

Yes, Chko Jeseníky is known for its challenging gravel routes. Many of the trails in this guide are rated as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gains. For example, the Ramzová Ski Resort – Červenohorské Pass loop from Loučná nad Desnou-Rejhotice covers nearly 70 km with over 1700 meters of ascent, providing a demanding experience for seasoned gravel bikers.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can discover numerous wells, streams, and waterfalls, as well as mysterious peat bogs like the Great Moss Lake at Rejvíz. The trails often lead through ancient spruce and beech forests. Notable natural landmarks include the Praděd Summit, the highest peak, and the unique botanical locality of Velká kotlina. You might also encounter the fascinating Petrovy Kameny rock formations.

Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical sites. While gravel biking, you might pass by areas with historical significance, such as the pumped-storage hydro power plant at Dlouhé Stráně. The broader Jeseníky area also features historical monuments like castles and ruins, including the Jánský Vrch chateau and the Zlatokopecký open-air museum, which can be explored as part of a longer trip.

Chko Jeseníky offers many opportunities for breathtaking views. The Praděd Summit and Observation Tower provides panoramic vistas. Other excellent viewpoints include the Zlatý Chlum Observation Tower and the Červenohorské Pass, which is often part of longer routes like the Ramzová Ski Resort – Červenohorské Pass loop.

While many routes in this guide are rated as difficult, the extensive network in Chko Jeseníky does include paths suitable for various skill levels. For easier, family-friendly rides, look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. The region's 200 km of routes along waterways can often provide gentler options, though specific family-friendly gravel routes are not highlighted in this particular guide.

Yes, several starting points for gravel bike trails in Chko Jeseníky are accessible by public transport. For example, the Masaryk Square, Jeseník – Rejvíz Village loop can be started from Ondřejovice zastávka, which is a public transport stop. Many towns and villages within or bordering the protected area have bus or train connections, making it possible to reach trailheads without a car.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as common starting points for tours. For instance, if you plan to ride the Zlaté Hory town centre – Priessnitz Spa loop, you can typically find parking in Zlaté Hory. Similarly, Jeseník and Loučná nad Desnou-Rejhotice offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific parking options for your chosen trailhead in advance.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails in Chko Jeseníky, but they must be kept on a leash, especially within the Protected Landscape Area and particularly in National Nature Reserves like Praděd or Rejvíz. This is to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Always clean up after your dog.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Chko Jeseníky are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples from this guide include the Masaryk Square, Jeseník – Rejvíz Village loop and the Superflow Trail Section 5 loop from Jeseník. These circular routes are convenient for day trips and exploring different parts of the region.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and well-preserved natural environment, the extensive network of trails that keep you away from traffic, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs. The stunning views from mountain peaks and the tranquility of the deep forests are frequently highlighted as major draws.