The best traffic-free bike rides in Jordan

Jordan's no-traffic gravel trails offer a diverse and often challenging experience. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, from gravel and dirt tracks to potentially chunky, loose terrain, and even deep sand, especially in the southern desert areas like Wadi Rum. Expect significant elevation changes as routes navigate through mountains, wadis, and plateaus. Wide tires (40mm or more) and a suspension fork are often recommended for comfort on rougher sections.

The best time for gravel biking in Jordan, especially on routes designed to be traffic-free, is during the cooler months outside of summer. February, March, and April offer pleasant temperatures and a greener landscape, making for ideal riding conditions. Autumn, particularly October and November, can also be excellent. Summer months are generally too hot for comfortable cycling.

Yes, several of the no-traffic gravel routes in Jordan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Ein Moda Natural Spring – Basalt Canyon Waterfall loop from בית שאן and the Solomon's Pillars – Solomon's Pillars loop from Elifaz are excellent circular options that keep you away from main roads.

Many no-traffic gravel bike routes in Jordan pass by stunning natural features. You can explore areas like the Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), which is accessible by bike, or ride loops that take you past the Ein Moda Natural Spring and Basalt Canyon Waterfall. The dramatic desert landscapes around Solomon's Pillars also offer breathtaking views. While not directly on a bike route, the Dead Sea is a significant natural wonder nearby.

While many of Jordan's gravel trails involve moderate to difficult terrain and significant elevation, some sections might be suitable for families with older, experienced riders. The guide features routes with varying difficulty levels. For example, the Wadi Perazim Canyon – Mount Sodom Viewpoint loop is rated moderate and is shorter, which might be more manageable for families seeking a less strenuous adventure away from traffic.

The duration of these no-traffic gravel bike trails varies depending on the route length and your pace. For instance, the Wadi Perazim Canyon – Mount Sodom Viewpoint loop can be completed in approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, while longer routes like the Ein Moda Natural Spring – Basalt Canyon Waterfall loop might take around 3 hours and 57 minutes. Always check the estimated duration for each specific route to plan your ride accordingly.

This guide features 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Jordan. These routes range from moderate to difficult in terms of challenge, offering options for various skill levels looking to explore Jordan's unique landscapes away from vehicular traffic.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Jordan, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, diverse landscapes, the sense of adventure on challenging terrain, and the opportunity to explore historical and natural wonders in a peaceful, car-free environment.

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter, traffic-free gravel biking experience, the Solomon's Pillars – Solomon's Pillars loop from Elifaz is approximately 36.9 km long. Another option is the Wadi Perazim Canyon – Mount Sodom Viewpoint loop, which is about 26.4 km, offering a more compact adventure away from cars.

While cycling isn't permitted within the ancient city of Petra itself, many routes offer access to nearby historical sites. For instance, you can bike to Little Petra (Siq al-Barid). The broader region of Jordan is rich in history, with sites like Shobak Castle also being part of scenic gravel and dirt tracks, providing a cultural dimension to your ride.

While specific public transport options for carrying bikes directly to trailheads might be limited, Jordan has a developing infrastructure. Many gravel routes start from accessible points, and local taxis or private transfers can often be arranged to get you and your bike to the beginning of a traffic-free trail. It's advisable to research local transport options for your specific starting point in advance.