Hint

Intro

Just a stone’s throw away from the town, Basel’s landmark mountain Gempen offers a professionally constructed freeride trail. After opening in the summer of 2018, its berms, drops and jumps promise enough flow and fun for everyone to enjoy.

Description

It’s the second bike trail in Basel-Country and one of the few freeride trails in north-western Switzerland: the loop trail north of Arlesheim makes the region a definite haven for mountain bikers. Another plus point offered by the route is that it’s accessible all year round – except for the occasional day that it’s covered in snow.

Either way, you will have to invest some hard work before enjoying the downhill thrill. From Arlesheim train station, where the route’s signage begins, you start by pedalling along the Birs River and then pass by Arlesheim swimming pool to head uphill through the beech forest. The pleasant uphill route on the surfaced marlstone road helps to build concentration for the downhill portion. The two-kilometre freeride trail then begins right after a large clearing near the edge of the forest. The trail was constructed along an old forest road and passes through Arlesheim nature reserve. Described by bikers as having «a high flow factor», it is suitable for all levels of biking skill. As is common with trails, its berms, tabletops and drops abound after just a few metres – while also offering plenty of jumps for dare devils.

After reaching the end, it’s worth visiting the town at the foot of Gempen. Arlesheim is particularly famous for its cathedral – the only one in Switzerland – and its hermitage. Switzerland’s largest English-style landscaped garden is admired by visitors for the beautiful nature it has to offer, which includes rocky cliffs, caves and ponds (Please note that cycling is not allowed). The pretty village centre is also the perfect place to ring out a day of biking in one of its cosy cafés. During the summer months, the lido and re-naturalised Birs River are a cool way to beat the heat.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Type
Enduro
Start location
Arlesheim
Destination
Arlesheim
Direction
Round trip
Ascent
400 m
Descent
400 m
Distance
12 km
Distance on tarred ways
7 km
Distance on natural surface
3 km
Singletrail (part of natural surface)
2 km
Technical requirements
Difficult
Physical requirements
Easy
Signalization
Signalisation in one direction

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 836

Distance

12 km

Ascent

400 m

Travel information: Arlesheim

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