4.7
(94)
533
riders
22
rides
Gravel biking around Lake of Kemnade offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Germany's Ruhr region, between Witten and Bochum, the area features a mix of paved sections, dedicated cycle paths, and unpaved routes, including repurposed former railway trails. The terrain provides opportunities for various skill levels, with views of green nature, the reservoir, and surrounding hills. This network connects to wider areas, including the extensive Ruhr Valley Cycle Path.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(3)
12
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
23
riders
77.1km
03:58
360m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
12
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
37.3km
02:11
310m
310m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
5
riders
17.3km
01:06
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautifully shaped trail. Also manageable for me as a beginner. The locals were extremely helpful and motivating. Together with a pace-maker, I managed the first drop into the chicken ladder.
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The Hammerteich pond is a beautiful spot for a picnic any time of year. There's a lovely playground for children, and you can watch herons, cormorants, and ducks. Currently, it's an interesting place because the city of Witten is removing the pond's heavy siltation. First, all the fish were removed and relocated to other bodies of water. Now, the pond is being pumped out.
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Here you can see model boat builders in the summer.
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The Hammerteich was created in 1722 by damming the Borbach (then Borbecke) stream. Today, it is a popular recreational area in Witten.
5
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It's always great to cycle here
2
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So I knew I was riding on the Rhenish donkey!
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There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Lake Kemnade, offering a variety of distances and elevation profiles for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community for their scenic beauty and quiet paths.
The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Lake Kemnade feature a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find paved sections, dedicated cycle paths, and unpaved routes, including repurposed former railway trails. This variety provides opportunities for different skill levels, from moderate loops to more demanding routes with significant elevation changes.
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Lake Kemnade are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the View of the Elbsche Valley – Hidden Forest Trail loop, which offers a moderate 24 km ride with varied scenery.
Along the no-traffic gravel trails, you can enjoy views of the Elbsche Valley and the historic Blankenstein Castle. The trails also offer picturesque views of Lake Kemnade itself, including the north shore and east shore. You might also encounter unique features like the Rheinischer Esel sculpture on some routes.
The no-traffic gravel trails around Lake Kemnade are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the beautiful natural landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that keep you away from vehicle traffic.
Yes, many of the dedicated cycle paths and former railway trails are suitable for families, offering safe and traffic-free environments. Routes like the Path Through the Fields – Forest Path in the Ruhr Region loop provide moderate distances and elevation, perfect for a family outing.
Lake Kemnade is well-connected within the Ruhr region, making it accessible by public transport. Many starting points for gravel trails are within reach of bus or train stations in nearby Witten or Bochum, allowing you to easily reach the car-free routes.
Yes, the area around Lake Kemnade is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find numerous beer gardens, cafés, and restaurants situated around the lake, providing convenient stops for refreshments during or after your ride. The Al's Dorado sea kiosk is one such spot.
The no-traffic gravel trails around Lake Kemnade can be enjoyed year-round, but early morning hours are particularly recommended for enjoying the tranquility and a beautiful sunrise over the lake. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours.
For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Erzbahn Swing – Erzbahnschwinge Bridge loop offer a substantial ride of over 77 km with significant elevation gain, incorporating former railway trails for a car-free experience.
Generally, dogs are welcome on leashes on many of the public paths and trails around Lake Kemnade. However, specific regulations may apply in certain protected areas or on private land. It's always best to check local signage or the specific route details on komoot for any restrictions.


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