The best traffic-free bike rides around Empfingen
4.3
(16)
54
riders
36
rides
Gravel biking around Empfingen offers diverse landscapes, transitioning from paved surfaces to gravel and root trails. The region is characterized by picturesque natural surroundings, including the Starzeltal Valley and the Neckar River. Its proximity to the Black Forest further enhances the appeal for outdoor activities, providing access to extensive trail networks. This varied terrain makes it ideal for exploring on a gravel bike.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Empfingen
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.6
(12)
21
riders
44.4km
02:36
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
38.6km
02:22
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
riders
25.1km
01:28
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
38.7km
02:24
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
47.0km
02:56
620m
620m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Empfingen
Tips from the Community
The Bösinger Wasserhäusle was a pumping station and was used to transport fresh spring water from a source in the Waldach valley via cast iron pipes to the village of Bösingen (a district of the municipality of Pfalzgrafenweiler), located 1.4 km away and 140 meters higher up. The pumps were driven by the water power of the Waldach. A water wheel with a diameter of six meters was used. The facility went into operation in 1894. In 1911, it was supplemented by an 8 hp gasoline engine, which could now also drive the pumps during low water levels in the Waldach. In 1948, it was connected to the power grid via a transformer station, after which a newly installed electric motor could serve as a backup drive. The Bösingen's own water supply was taken out of service in 1991 due to drinking water contamination. The entire facility, including the weir, the power channel, and the pumping station, has been protected as a cultural-historical monument since 2000. The pumping station can be visited all day on the Day of the Open Monument. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%B6singer_Wasserh%C3%A4usle
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The Bösinger Wasserhäusle was a pumping station and served to transport fresh spring water from a source in the Waldach valley via cast iron pipes to the village of Bösingen (part of the municipality of Pfalzgrafenweiler), 1.4 km away and 140 meters higher. The pumps were driven by the water power of the Waldach. A water wheel with a diameter of six meters was used. The facility went into operation in 1894. In 1911, it was supplemented by an 8 hp gasoline engine, which could now also drive the pumps during low water levels in the Waldach. In 1948, it was connected to the power grid via a transformer station, from which time a newly installed electric motor could serve as a backup drive. The Bösingen's own water supply was taken out of operation in 1991 due to drinking water contamination. The entire facility with its weir, power channel, and pumping station has been protected as a cultural-historical monument since 2000. The pumping station can be visited all day on the Day of the Open Monument. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%B6singer_Wasserh%C3%A4usle
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Weir on the Waldach, 300-meter-long drive channel, iron, backward-acting water wheel with spur gear transmission, 6 meters in diameter (originally lined with wooden paddles), 3 meters of head in the drive channel, pump output: 3-5 HP depending on water inflow from the drive channel, double-acting plunger pump from Maschinenfabrik Esslingen from the year 1893 with a high-performance suction and delivery pump and pressure vessel. In 1991, the plant was shut down as a private water supply due to contaminated spring water. Depending on the water level of the Waldach, the pumping station managed to pump 160,000 liters of fresh spring water directly into the houses and into the water reservoir in Bösingen, 2.3 km away and 140 meters higher, in 8 to 14 hours. The spring yields 1-2 liters per second depending on the season.
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Weir on the Waldach, 300-meter-long tailrace canal, iron overshot water wheel with spur gear transmission, 6 meters in diameter (originally with wooden paddles), 3-meter head, pump capacity: 3-5 HP depending on water inflow from the tailrace canal, double-acting plunger pump from Maschinenfabrik Esslingen from 1893 with a powerful suction and delivery pump and pressure vessel. In 1991, the plant was shut down due to contaminated spring water as a private water supply. The pump managed to pump 160,000 liters of fresh spring water directly into the houses and into the water reservoir in Bösingen, 2.3 km away and 140 meters higher, in 8 to 14 hours, depending on the water level of the Waldach. The spring yields 1-2 liters per second depending on the season.
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Beautiful area with a great view. Always worth a visit!
1
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Beautiful view through the clearing into the valley from the panoramic double lounger - Zollernalbkreis
0
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Horb Old Town silhouette, always worth seeing.
4
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The monastery complex can be viewed from the road.
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Empfingen?
There are over 45 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Empfingen listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevation gains, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
What are the typical difficulty levels for gravel biking in Empfingen?
The trails around Empfingen cater to a wide range of abilities. You'll find routes suitable for all skill levels, from easy rides (STS S0 - S1) with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain, to more challenging expeditions (STS S3 - S6) exceeding 3,000 feet of elevation gain, some even requiring pushing your bike on strenuous sections. Most routes are classified as moderate or difficult.
Are there any beginner-friendly or family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, the region offers routes ideal for beginners and families, typically falling into the STS S0 - S1 difficulty range. These trails often feature less elevation gain and smoother gravel surfaces, providing a relaxed experience away from traffic. While specific easy routes are not highlighted in the data, the general terrain allows for such options.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these gravel bike trails?
Empfingen's gravel trails wind through diverse and picturesque landscapes. You can expect to ride through lush forests, along the serene Neckar River, and explore the beautiful Starzeltal Valley. The terrain often transitions from paved sections to gravel and even root trails, offering a true gravel biking adventure.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or attractions along the routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer stunning views and pass by interesting points. You might encounter viewpoints overlooking Horb am Neckar's old town, known for its half-timbered houses. Additionally, you can explore natural features like the Knaussen Cave or the Log cabin of the Dürrenmettstetten Hiking Club. For more specific attractions, consider routes that pass near the Dürrenmettstetten Observation Tower.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Empfingen?
While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, the months of July and August are particularly popular due to favorable weather conditions. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet or icy conditions on some unpaved sections.
Can you recommend a longer, challenging no-traffic gravel route?
For a challenging ride, consider the Neckar River Trail – Neckar Valley Near Mühlen loop from Industriegebiet Heiligenfeld. This route covers over 53 km with more than 600 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience through varied terrain.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Empfingen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Neckar River Trail – Seltenbach Valley loop from Eutingen, which is a moderate 31 km ride.
Where can I find parking for these gravel bike trails?
Many routes start from easily accessible locations with parking. For instance, the Neckar River Trail – Neckar Valley Near Mühlen loop starts from Industriegebiet Heiligenfeld, and other routes begin from Eutingen Nord or Horb-Heiligenfeld, which typically offer parking facilities.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Empfingen?
The gravel biking community highly rates the trails around Empfingen, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and adventurous ride.
Are there any routes that pass by interesting historical sites?
The region around Empfingen is rich in historical landmarks. While specific routes aren't solely dedicated to historical sites, many trails will take you through areas with a strong historical context, such as views of Horb am Neckar's old town. You might also find routes passing near the Former Beer Cellar of the Sonnenwirt (Eutinger Valley), offering a glimpse into local history.
Most popular attractions around Empfingen
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