CYCLING ROUTE
MTB-route Harderwijk
Mountain bike route in Harderwijk with singletracks, drift sand and the Leuvenumse bos. A varied trail that challenges experienced riders and sporty beginners alike.
Thijs de Jong21.7 kmDuration: 2 to 2.5 hours
MTB-route Harderwijk takes you over fast singletracks, through dense forest and past open sandy plains such as the Beekhuizerzand. A route with flow, variety and enough challenge to keep you sharp.
What to expect from the Harderwijk mountain bike route
MTB-route Harderwijk is 21.7 kilometres long and is ridden clockwise. Around two thirds of the route consists of singletracks: narrow trails that demand your focus. Along the way you'll come across berms and natural obstacles. No wide forest roads, but a route with character.
The total elevation gain is around 165 metres. That may sound modest, but the overgrown drift sand dunes make for short, nasty little climbs and fast descents that follow each other in quick succession.
The difficulty rating is blue (intermediate). Accessible for anyone who's ridden a mountain bike before, but challenging enough to stay fun. Beginners would do well to get used to the bike first before diving into the singletracks.
With 2 children aged 9 and 12, we rode a lovely route with lots of hills and bends. Good bikes available in several sizes.
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The surroundings: Beekhuizerzand and the Leuvenumse bos
The route passes through two completely different landscapes. It's precisely that contrast that keeps it interesting from start to finish.
The Beekhuizerzand is a drift sand area of around 200 hectares. Open, wide and rugged. The sand shifts with the wind and in places gives you a view over the whole area. A great moment to catch your breath after a technical stretch of singletrack.
After that you dive into the Leuvenumse bos. This area has been managed by Natuurmonumenten for more than a hundred years. Without intervention, the heath would slowly disappear under forest, but grazing sheep keep the landscape open.
Here you ride through a mix of dense forest trails and open stretches of heath. Varied, lively and never dull. The Leuvenumse bos is also home to plenty of wildlife, so keep your eyes open as you ride.
Three loops, one playground
The Harderwijk route doesn't stand alone. The MTB area consists of three loops that you can easily combine.
Harderwijk
The technical loop with elevation changes, fast singletracks and views over the Beekhuizerzand and the Leuvenumse bos. This is the route you're reading about now.
Ermelo
A longer and slightly gentler loop through the Speulderbos and across the Ermelosche Heide. Lovely flow, especially in the final section. Combine it with Harderwijk and you've got a ride of around 45 kilometres.
Trek Trail
Short but technical. Think jumps, berms and boardwalks. Located at the Bouw- en Infrapark in Harderwijk and only open on weekdays. Ideal as a warm-up or as an extra lap after your ride.
Mountain biked 45 km with two teenagers through stunning landscapes, forest and heath, really incredibly beautiful and fun! The people at Outdoor Harderwijk are very friendly and helpful and the equipment is good. Good value for money too. And very easy to reach by car.
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Starting and navigating
The route starts at Transferium Harderwijk on the Boekhorstlaan, right next to the Outdoor Harderwijk rental location. Parking here is free, there's a bike wash and you're straight onto the route.
Navigating is easy. The route is clearly marked with wooden posts bearing the international MTB symbol: a green triangle with two circles beneath it. Follow the route clockwise and you can easily ride it without GPS.
Want extra peace of mind? A GPS track is available. Start coordinates: N 52.331212, E 5.640194.
No trail permit is required.
Mountain bike hire in Harderwijk
No mountain bike of your own? Hire one at Outdoor Harderwijk, right at the starting point. The mountain bikes are well set up and ready to go.
Before you set off, we'll give you a quick introduction: we adjust the saddle height and explain the controls. We'll get you out on the route in no time.
Riding with clipless shoes (SPD)? Let us know when you book and we'll fit the right pedals for you. Please note: these are SPD pedals, not suitable for SPD-SL (road bike).
Top service! Great mountain bike for a good price. Forgot to ask for clip-in pedals when booking, but on the spot it was no problem at all to swap them. Then had a lovely ride in the beautiful surroundings, highly recommended!
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From trail to terrace
21.7 kilometres of singletracks and elevation changes will work up an appetite. Back at Outdoor Harderwijk, pull up a chair on the terrace and leave the rest to us.
Start your day with lunch or round it off with drinks in the open air. Fancy something more substantial? Go for a BBQ with good meat, fresh salads and plenty of time to talk over your ride.
Take a look at the Outdoor Harderwijk menu or request your package and Thijs and Anne will be happy to help you plan.
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions about MTB-route Harderwijk
How long does MTB-route Harderwijk take?
On average, the route takes 2 to 2.5 hours. Beginners often take a little longer, while sporty riders finish faster.
Where does MTB-route Harderwijk start?
The route starts at Transferium Harderwijk on the Boekhorstlaan (3847 LP). You can park for free here and you're right on the route. Outdoor Harderwijk is also based here, where you can hire a mountain bike and grab something to eat or drink before or after your ride.
Is MTB-route Harderwijk suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you have basic control of your bike. The singletracks and bends do call for some technique. Not sure? Take your time, or start with an easier section first.
What is the route's difficulty level?
The route has a blue difficulty rating (intermediate). That means it's very doable for anyone who's ridden a mountain bike before, but technical enough to stay fun.
Do you need a trail permit for this route?
No, you don't need a trail permit for MTB-route Harderwijk.
Is the route well signposted?
Yes, the route is clearly marked with wooden posts bearing the international MTB symbol (a green triangle with two circles). Navigating is easy, even without GPS.
Is MTB-route Harderwijk suitable for children?
Yes, the route is also very doable for families with children. Outdoor Harderwijk has children's mountain bikes available, suitable for children from 130 to 145 cm tall. Wearing a helmet is compulsory.
Can I hire a mountain bike at the start?
Yes, at Outdoor Harderwijk you can hire a mountain bike right at the starting point. You'll be out on the route within minutes.
Can I get something to eat or drink near MTB-route Harderwijk?
Yes. At the start and finish, Outdoor Harderwijk, you can stop for lunch, drinks or a BBQ. Ideal for starting or rounding off your ride. There are few places to eat or drink directly on the trail itself. Want a break? Then you can head towards the edge of Harderwijk or Ermelo. Most riders choose to flop down on the Outdoor Harderwijk terrace afterwards.
By Thijs de Jong
The outdoors is his natural habitat. As Chief Outdoor Officer, Thijs knows the Veluwe like the back of his hand and makes sure you head out with the best route, a well-adjusted bike and all the explanation you need. Behind the scenes, he keeps everything running smoothly. And every now and then, he'll simply pour you a cold beer.