Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee
Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee
4.5
(3287)
13,370
riders
23
rides
Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee no traffic touring bike trails traverse a landscape characterized by ancient beech forests, the fjord-like Edersee lake, and idyllic river valleys. The region features numerous wooded hills and mountains, with elevations generally under 200 meters. Over 1,000 pure springs and natural streams contribute to the diverse terrain, which also includes fascinating rock formations. This area provides a well-developed network of routes suitable for touring cyclists.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
4.7
(1698)
6,179
riders
44.7km
03:30
660m
660m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(107)
333
riders
29.0km
02:23
350m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(55)
256
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(101)
441
riders
17.7km
01:16
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(73)
310
riders
53.0km
04:42
820m
820m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee
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The most popular swimming lakes in Hesse
Urwaldsteig Edersee — ancient trees and clear blue water
Sattelfest am Edersee: Die 5 ER-Radwege
Versteckte Pfade & weite Blicke: Unterwegs auf den Kellerwald-Juwelen
Wildnis, Wasser und Weitblick: Die Highlights am Edersee
Traffic-free bike rides in Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee
Traffic-free bike rides in Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee
It is particularly interesting for your bike tour: a cycle path leads along the lake, and from Affoldern you can beautifully continue to the Edersee dam. A road bike loop over Affolderner See and the dam is specified at about 34–35 km and only around 110 meters of altitude gain.
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A beautiful trail right on the banks of the Edersee.
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Imposing structure and great view from there.
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The Edersee is one of the largest dams in Germany. The namesake is the Fuldazufluss Eder, which comes from the Rothaargebirge from the west and fills the reservoir in the North Hessian Bergland near Korbach.
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Very nice section of the route crowned with a great view
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The Affoldern Reservoir (Affoldern Lake) in Hesse is a reservoir of approximately 165 hectares, created in 1929 and expanded in 1972 near Edertal. It serves as the lower reservoir for the Waldeck pumped-storage power plants, for flood control, and as a nature reserve rich in fish. The lake is known for its large waterfowl population, opportunities for fishing (salmonids), and the adjacent cycle path. Wikipedia +4 Key Facts and Features: Location: Below the Eder Dam, in the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, near the village of Affoldern. Function: Primarily the lower reservoir for the Waldeck I and II pumped-storage power plants, which can cause water level fluctuations of up to 3 meters. It also serves as flood control for the Eder, Fulda, and Weser rivers. Nature Conservation: The lake is a designated nature reserve and bird sanctuary (FFH area). It is an important resting and wintering area for waterfowl. Leisure: Fishing: A well-known fishing spot, especially for brown and rainbow trout, but also pike, zander, and eel. The fishing season usually runs from April to mid-October. Boating: Boats are permitted on the northern part of the lake from March 16th to October 15th. Cycling/Hiking: A popular cycle path runs along the lake. Camping: A campsite is located directly on the lake. Special feature: As the lake is an important breeding and resting area, some areas are protected as quiet zones. Wikipedia +5 Affoldern Lake thus offers a combination of industrial energy use, flood control, and nature-based recreation, directly adjacent to the national park.
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A great view of the bridge and the lake
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There are over 20 no-traffic touring cycling routes available in Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee, catering to various skill levels. This includes 6 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced cyclists.
Yes, the region offers several easy routes suitable for families. A good option is the View of the Edersee – Edersee Lakeside Trail loop from Vöhl, which is 13.2 km long and features minimal elevation gain. The Edersee Cycle Route itself is also considered medium-difficulty and suitable for families.
The best times are typically spring, summer, and autumn. Spring offers blooming nature, while summer provides warm weather for cycling and swimming in the Edersee. Autumn is particularly scenic with the vibrant colors of the ancient beech forests. While some routes may be accessible, winter can bring colder temperatures and potential snow, making conditions less ideal for touring cycling.
Dogs are generally welcome in the National Park and on many cycling routes, provided they are kept on a leash. It's important to respect wildlife and other visitors. Always ensure your dog has access to water, especially on longer rides.
The routes wind through diverse landscapes, including UNESCO World Natural Heritage ancient beech forests and along the fjord-like Edersee lake. You can encounter sights like the Affolderner See, the Knorreichenstieg Trail, and the Kellerwald-Edersee Primeval Forest Trail. The region is also known for its idyllic river landscapes and over 1,000 pure springs.
Yes, many routes offer circular options around the Edersee. For example, the View of the Edersee – Lake Edersee loop from Bringhausen is a moderate 26.5 km circular route. Another popular option is the Edersee Dam – Lake Edersee loop from Schloß Waldeck, which is a longer 40 km moderate loop.
The Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee has various designated parking areas near popular starting points for cycling routes. Specific parking information is often available on the individual route descriptions on komoot. Many towns around the Edersee, such as Waldeck, Vöhl, and Frankenau, also offer parking facilities.
Yes, the region is well-connected by public transport. Guests staying at participating accommodations can receive the 'MeineCard', which provides free use of buses and trains throughout North Hesse, making it convenient to reach various starting points for your cycling tours without a car.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars from over 1,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning combination of the deep blue Edersee lake with the ancient beech forests, the well-maintained and clearly signposted paths, and the overall tranquility of the no-traffic routes.
Yes, the Nationalpark Kellerwald-Edersee is very e-bike friendly. You can rent e-bikes at the NationalparkZentrum Kellerwald, which also serves as a visitor information hub. Additionally, there are charging stations available throughout the region to keep your e-bike powered for longer tours.
Absolutely. Many routes offer breathtaking views, such as the Kanzel Viewpoint: View of Edersee and Waldeck Castle. You can also encounter historical sites like Schloss Waldeck, perched high above the Edersee, and the impressive Edertal Dam. Some routes even offer glimpses of the Edersee's 'Atlantis' ruins during low water levels.


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