The best MTB trails around Gillenfeld
4.5
(276)
867
riders
46
rides
Mountain biking around Gillenfeld offers diverse terrain within Germany's Vulkaneifel district, characterized by its unique volcanic landscapes. The region features numerous maars, which are volcanic crater lakes, alongside gently rolling hills, stream valleys, and a mix of forests and meadows. This varied topography provides a range of mountain bike trails suitable for different skill levels, from challenging ascents to more leisurely paths around natural features.
Best mountain bike trails around Gillenfeld
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Kennfuss-Maisch Spring – Pulvermaar loop from Gillenfeld, a 27.3 miles (44.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 59 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the volcanic landscape, including the Pulvermaar.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Ulmener Maar – View of Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Gillenfeld, a moderate 23.7 miles (38.1 km) path. This trail offers views of the Schalkenmehrener Maar and surrounding Eifel scenery.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – View of Daun from Daun Viaduct loop from Gillenfeld, a 19.7 miles (31.7 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Gillenfeld is defined by volcanic maars, rolling hills, and extensive forests, providing a mix of technical sections and flowing paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly routes to more difficult trails with significant elevation changes.
- The routes in Gillenfeld are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 270 reviews. More than 860 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Gillenfeld's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.7
(82)
208
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(33)
130
riders
44.0km
03:59
860m
860m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.2
(15)
64
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(14)
29
riders
32.8km
02:37
460m
460m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(5)
12
riders
30.3km
02:42
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Gillenfeld
Tips from the Community
....super great idea to offer drinks here. Thank you very much
0
0
The Ulmen Maar lies 420 meters above sea level today, covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and is 36 meters deep. The bubbles at the maar's edge demonstrate that volcanism is still active. They bear witness to a turbulent past—but rest assured, there's no eruption in sight! A wall of various rocks and ash, up to 20 meters thick, surrounds the cone. For those interested, these testimonies to this explosive past are beautifully displayed in St. Matthias Church. This unique wall, with its different colored layers and rounded inclusions, is worth seeing for more than just geologists. The slopes of the maar basin are covered with a beautiful forest, which can be explored on a circular walk. A detour to the medieval castle ruins, from which the Crusaders once launched their campaigns, is recommended. The view from the crater rim over the maar and the Eifel beyond will take your breath away. Whether after a sweaty hike or a long drive, the blue of the Ulmer Eifel lake is all too tempting in summer. However, bathing in the maar is prohibited because it is designated as a nature and water protection area.
6
0
Beautiful circular path in the shade suitable for wheelchairs/strollers
0
0
Weinfelder Maar - Impressive Evidence of Explosive Geological History The Weinfelder Maar – also known as Totenmaar – is one of the three so-called Daun Maars. It is located about 2 kilometers from our district town of Daun, near the municipality of Schalkenmehren, between the Gemünden and Schalkenmehren Maars. It has a diameter of approximately 525 meters and a depth of 51 meters, making it the deepest of the three Daun Maars. It is the youngest and, at 487 meters above sea level, the highest of the three closely adjacent maars, which formed between 20,000 and 30,000 years ago. Text / Source: Natur- und Geopark Vulkaneifel GmbH, Mainzer Str. 25, Daun https://www.geopark-vulkaneifel.de/eifel/landschaft/maare-und-kraterseen/weinfelder-maar.html
12
0
Weinfelder Maar The Weinfelder Maar, formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, is the highest of the three Daun Maars at 487 meters above sea level. The lake is 51 meters deep and has a diameter of 396 to 429 meters. An almost melancholic atmosphere surrounds the maar. Many legends surround the tranquil Eifel eye. A castle is said to have once stood on the site of the crater, where a count lived with his wife and only child. After returning home from a hunt, the castle had sunk as punishment for the woman's nastiness, and he found only a lake where a cradle miraculously floated his child safely to the shore. If you look at the dark surface of the water long enough, it is said that you can make out the outline of the castle. The German landscape painter Fritz von Wille was so fascinated by the Weinfelder Maar that he repeatedly immortalized it in his paintings. Among his favorite motifs was the small chapel on the north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin. It was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was ravaged by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who rings the bells inside by pulling the ropes can make a wish. To this day, the associated cemetery is maintained and used by the local community of Schalkenmehren. This is also where its second name, Totenmaar, comes from. Donkeys and goats have been introduced to the Weinfelder Maar to regulate vegetation. The maar's unique flora and fauna are protected. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, but a nearly two-kilometer-long path makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot. Parking: Guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Weinfelder Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Text / Source: GesundLand Vulkaneifel GmbH, Leopoldstr. 9 A, 54550 Daun https://www.eifel.info/a-weinfelder-maar
12
0
A great trail! A few rocks, steps, long and flowy—everything's perfect 👍🏻 But watch out for hikers!
0
0
Great trail! It has everything you need: roots, rocks, flow. Watch out for hikers—respect is key.
0
0
Simply experience a wonderful piece of nature.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when mountain biking around Gillenfeld?
Mountain biking around Gillenfeld offers a diverse landscape characterized by unique volcanic features, including numerous maars (volcanic crater lakes), gently rolling hills, stream valleys, and a mix of forests and meadows. This varied topography provides a range of trails, from technical sections to flowing paths, catering to different skill levels.
Are there easy or family-friendly mountain bike trails available in Gillenfeld?
Yes, Gillenfeld offers options for all skill levels, including easy and family-friendly routes. The region features paths like the Kennfuss-Maisch Spring – Pulvermaar loop from Gillenfeld, which is rated moderate but explores scenic volcanic landscapes. The Maare-Mosel Cycle Path, following former railway lines, is particularly suitable for families due to its gentle slopes, and a segment from Daun to Gillenfeld is even designed as a children's cycle route.
What options are there for experienced mountain bikers seeking challenging trails?
For experienced mountain bikers, Gillenfeld provides challenging routes with significant elevation changes and technical sections. The region's VulkanBike Trailpark is known as an 'Eldorado for downhill fans.' Trails like the Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – Dronketurm tower loop from Gillenfeld are rated difficult, offering a more demanding experience.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see along the mountain bike trails?
The trails around Gillenfeld offer many scenic landmarks. You can encounter the beautiful Pulvermaar, Windsborn-Kratersee (Germany's only crater lake), and the Schalkenmehren Maar. The Großes Schlitzohr Tunnel – Dronketurm tower loop from Gillenfeld passes by the Dronketurm Tower, which provides magnificent panoramic views of the Eifel landscape. Other points of interest include the Elf Grotto and Elbesbach Waterfall and the Kobesloch Hut – View over the Lieser Valley.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Gillenfeld?
Yes, many mountain bike routes in Gillenfeld are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the View of Schalkenmehrener Maar – View of the maar loop from Gillenfeld and the Lieserpfad Trail – Lieserpfad Trail loop from Gillenfeld. These circular routes are ideal for exploring the volcanic landscape and maars.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Gillenfeld?
The optimal season for mountain biking in Gillenfeld is from spring to autumn. During these months, temperatures are mild, and the natural scenery, particularly around the maars and forests, is at its most vibrant, providing excellent conditions for riding.
How long are the mountain bike trails near Gillenfeld typically?
The mountain bike trails around Gillenfeld vary in length to suit different preferences. For instance, the Kennfuss-Maisch Spring – Pulvermaar loop from Gillenfeld is 27.3 miles (44.0 km) long, while the Holzmaar – Pleiner Tunnel loop from Gillenfeld is a longer option at 79.3 km (49.3 miles).
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Gillenfeld?
The mountain biking experience in Gillenfeld is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the unique volcanic landscapes, and the mix of technical sections and flowing paths that cater to different ability levels.
Are there any specific natural features or geological sites to look out for?
Absolutely. Gillenfeld is famous for its maars, which are volcanic crater lakes. The Pulvermaar, Schalkenmehren Maar, and Holzmaar are prominent features along many routes. You can also explore the Wolfsschlucht (Vulkaneifel) or the Whirlpools of the Kleine Kyll, which offer unique natural sights.
Can I learn more about the region's volcanic history while mountain biking?
Yes, the region's volcanic past is a defining characteristic. While riding, you'll traverse landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity. For a deeper dive, the Vulkanhaus Strohn is an interactive museum that offers insights into the Eifel's geological history and is easily accessible from many routes.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Gillenfeld area?
There are over 45 mountain bike trails available in the Gillenfeld area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 5 easy, 29 moderate, and 13 difficult routes.
Most popular routes around Gillenfeld
Most popular attractions around Gillenfeld
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
