Schorfheide Loop Trail

This tour is rated as difficult due to its length of approximately 76.9 kilometers (47.8 miles) and an elevation gain of around 350 meters (1148 feet). It requires good physical fitness, and some sections may be unpaved and quite demanding, potentially requiring you to push your bike.

The terrain is diverse, traversing the Ice Age-formed end moraine plateau of Barnim. You'll encounter a mix of extensive forests, open fields, tree-lined avenues, and small villages. While some parts are paved, be prepared for unpaved and challenging sections. Highlights include cycling through the Asphalt Path Through Schorfheide-Chorin Forest and along the historic Finow Canal.

The tour offers a rich natural experience with its many clear lakes, diverse flora and fauna, and tranquil wooded roads. You'll pass by the beautiful Werbellinsee Swimming Area and follow the Finow Stream in the Finowtal–Pregnitzfließ Nature Reserve. The landscape is a striking contrast to nearby urban areas, providing an idyllic natural escape.

The best time to cycle this tour is typically from spring through autumn. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can vary, and some unpaved sections might be more challenging after heavy rain.

The Barnim Nature Park is accessible by both car and public transport. While specific starting points can vary, towns within the park like Eberswalde or Finowfurt often serve as good access points. You can usually find parking in these areas. For public transport, regional trains connect Berlin to towns within the Barnim region, from where you can cycle to the tour's start.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within Barnim Nature Park. However, it is crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and comfort of other visitors. Please also remember to clean up after your pet.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Barnim Triangle Tour or to access the Barnim Nature Park, which is part of the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve. However, as with any nature reserve, please respect local regulations regarding nature conservation, such as staying on marked paths and not disturbing wildlife.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You will find yourself cycling along parts of the Rund um die Schorfheide, the Oder-Havel-Radweg, and the Treidelweg. It also briefly touches upon the Berlin-Usedom Cycleway and the Tour Brandenburg.

While the tour takes you through natural landscapes, you will pass through small villages and towns where you can find opportunities for refreshments and potentially accommodation. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially during off-peak seasons, as options might be limited in some areas.

Given the tour's length and difficulty, we recommend bringing plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit for your bike, a first-aid kit, and appropriate cycling gear for varying weather conditions. A helmet is essential, and a map or GPS device is highly recommended, as some sections might be less clearly marked.

Due to its 'difficult' rating, length, and varied terrain, including unpaved and challenging sections, the Barnim Triangle Tour is generally not recommended for beginners or families with young children. There are other, less demanding cycling routes within the Barnim Nature Park that might be more suitable for a leisurely family outing.