4.1
(68)
393
riders
44
rides
Gravel biking around Wackersdorf offers routes through the Upper Palatinate Lake District, a region transformed from a former lignite mining area into a landscape of idyllic lakes and varied terrain. The area features well-maintained cycle paths that cater to different skill levels, often combining on- and off-road experiences. Riders can expect paths around prominent lakes like Murner See and Steinberger See, providing a mix of natural beauty and accessible routes.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.8
(10)
46
riders
29.3km
01:41
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
59
riders
31.2km
01:48
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.5
(2)
13
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
15
riders
37.0km
02:09
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
16
riders
6.70km
00:20
30m
30m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The wooden ball is visible from some places.
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The wooden sphere is certainly a highlight on the lake. Personally, however, it wouldn't be worth €13 entrance fee for me (as of May 2026)
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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The Mariental inn is only open on weekends. The next place to stop for refreshments would be in Ramspau G.H., near the church.
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You can explore over 40 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Wackersdorf. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 9 easy, 27 moderate, and 8 difficult options available.
The Upper Palatinate Lake District is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for combining your ride with a refreshing dip in one of the many lakes. Be aware that some paths might be soft after heavy rain, making a gravel bike particularly advantageous.
Yes, Wackersdorf offers several easy no-traffic gravel routes perfect for beginners and families. A great option is the Lake Murner – View of Lake Murner loop from Murner See, which is just under 7 km long and features minimal elevation gain. The paths around Murner See and Steinberger See are generally well-maintained and offer a pleasant, flat ride.
The terrain around Wackersdorf is varied, combining well-maintained cycle paths with unpaved sections. You'll encounter a mix of gravel, compacted earth, and some paved stretches, especially around the lakes. The region's transformation from a former mining area means you'll ride through diverse landscapes, from idyllic lakeside paths to more wooded sections.
Absolutely! Many of the best no-traffic gravel routes in Wackersdorf are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Lake Steinberger – Lake Murner loop from Wackersdorf (VGem), which connects two major lakes, and the View of Lake Murner – Murner See Lakeside Trail loop from Schwandorf Airfield.
The trails often lead you past the region's beautiful lakes. You can enjoy views of Lake Murner and Lake Steinberg, both offering recreational activities. Don't miss the View of Lake Murnersee or the Observation Tower at Murner See for panoramic vistas. Some routes also pass through the tertiary forest or along the Regen River.
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for the gravel trails, especially around the major lakes like Murner See and Steinberger See. Many routes, such as the Lake Steinberger – Lake Steinberg loop from Schwandorf Airfield, often start from locations with designated parking.
Many of the no-traffic gravel trails in the Wackersdorf area are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially those on wider paths and away from busy areas. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, particularly around nature reserves, agricultural land, or popular lakeside areas, and to check local regulations for specific trails.
Yes, especially around the popular lakes like Murner See and Steinberger See, you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens. These are perfect for a break and to refuel during your ride. The region is well-equipped for visitors, offering amenities to enhance your outdoor experience.
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Wackersdorf, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful lake scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable riding. The diverse landscape, from former mining areas to idyllic natural settings, is also frequently highlighted.
While many routes are moderate, experienced riders can combine several loops or explore the more challenging sections. For instance, the Lake Murner – View of Lake Murner loop from Steinberg am See is a longer moderate route at nearly 37 km with over 260 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout on varied terrain.


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