Cycling Routes in the Thuringian Forest for Families

The Thuringian Forest is famous for its mountains. But, it also has some great bike paths that are surprisingly flat. These flat paths are perfect for families. You can find the best paths running alongside rivers.

Here are some top recommendations for your family:

Family-Friendly Cycling Routes

Ilm Valley Cycle Route (Ilmtal-Radweg)

• This path is great for families.
• It’s a smooth, paved road that runs alongside the Ilm river.
• It’s very flat and easy to ride because there are almost no hills.
• It has a high 4-star rating from the ADFC (a German bicycle club).

The section from the starting point in Allzunah via the spa town of Stützerbach to Ilmenau is largely downhill, making it particularly easy, and continues with a leisurely ride through the scenic Ilm Valley to cities like Weimar and Erfurt.

Unstrut Cycle Path (Unstrut-Radweg)

Described as “flat and comfortable,” this path follows the Unstrut river for 152 kilometers without steep climbs, making it ideal for families. The route offers wide views and passes through historic towns like Mühlhausen and Bad Langensalza.

Werra Valley Cycle Route (Werratal-Radweg)

• This is a very long bike path, but some parts are great for families.
• The best spots for a family ride are the flat areas along the river.
• The section of the path in Thuringia is good for kids.
• This part also has many different types of scenery to see.

Ohratalsperre Loop (Ohra Dam Loop)

• This popular path goes in a loop around the Ohratal dam (lake).
• The path is smooth (either paved or made of hard gravel).
• It’s great for bikes and baby strollers.
• You get wonderful views of the lake.
• It’s a mostly relaxed, medium-difficulty ride.
• The loop is about 8.8 miles (14.2 km) long.

GeoRoute 6: Dino Adventure Trail

• This is a fun loop path for the whole family.
• It features 17 life-size dinosaur statues to see.
• There are also info signs, and the dinos are perfect for keeping kids excited.
• The path is 8.4 miles (13.5 km) long.
• You also get to visit a real site where dinosaur bones were found.

Alte Tambacher Talsperre (Old Tambach Dam) Loop

This 5-mile (8 km) loop trail leads along paved and easily accessible paths around the dam, through forests and meadows. It’s a great option for a shorter family excursion. 

Tips for Family Cycling in the Region

• Choose routes along rivers or old railway lines: These generally offer the most level terrain, avoiding the challenging climbs typical of the Thuringian Forest’s ridges.
• Look for “easy” or “kid-friendly” designations: Many online guides and local information boards specify the difficulty and family-friendliness of routes.
• Consider e-bikes: For routes with some elevation gain, e-bikes can help the entire family manage the terrain comfortably.
• Combine cycling with other attractions: Many routes pass through towns with castles, museums (like the Goethe museums), or parks, allowing for rewarding breaks and diversified experiences. 

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