Utrechtse Heuvelrug MTB Loop: Den Treek, Leersum & Amerongen

This loop is considered a difficult gravel ride, requiring good fitness. While many gravel paths are well-maintained, some segments feature rolling hills and climbs that might be challenging, potentially requiring you to push your bike.

You'll experience a diverse landscape shaped by the last ice age, featuring hills, valleys, and plains. The route takes you through extensive forests, open heathlands, and sandy fields. The gravel paths are generally well-maintained and of high quality, offering a scenic blend of nature and cultural sites like rural estates and castles.

Yes, the route passes several interesting spots. You'll ride along a Gravel path through Den Treek, experience the Hazewater Slinger Trail, and see Heather Fields and Gravel Path in Den Treek. Other highlights include the Griftdijk Gravel Path, the Grebbelinie Canal and Locks, and an Unpaved climb Amerongse Berg.

The Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park offers great gravel biking conditions throughout the year. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming heather or colorful foliage. Summer can be warm but enjoyable, while winter rides are possible, though conditions might be colder and some paths could be damp.

The loop starts from Den Treek. While specific parking details aren't provided, the Den Treek-Henschoten estate area typically has designated parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information.

Generally, dogs are allowed in Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park, but specific rules regarding leashing can vary by area, especially within private estates like Den Treek-Henschoten. Always keep your dog on a leash unless otherwise indicated, and be mindful of wildlife and other trail users.

There are no general entrance fees for Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park itself. However, some private estates within the park, like Den Treek-Henschoten, may have specific regulations or require a day pass for certain activities or areas. It's best to check the local information boards or the official website of the Den Treek-Henschoten estate for any specific permit requirements for cycling.

Yes, this loop intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the Let de Stigterpad, Koninklijke Weg, Termatenpad, and the Utrechtpad etappe07. It also crosses parts of the Treeker MTB Trail (Blauwe Route) and the Grebbeliniepad - 08 - Pothbrug-Leusbroekerweg.

The area around Den Treek and the wider Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park offers various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. You'll find choices in nearby towns and villages, providing convenient spots for refreshments or an overnight stay before or after your ride.

Given its classification as a 'difficult' gravel ride requiring 'good fitness' and its length of over 73 km, this specific loop is generally not recommended for families with young children or beginners. However, the wider Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park offers many easier, family-friendly gravel paths and shorter routes suitable for various skill levels.

For this challenging and long gravel ride, it's essential to bring plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including spare tubes and a pump), appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, and a fully charged phone with the Komoot app for navigation. Given the varied terrain, a helmet is highly recommended.