Top Mountain Biking Trails in Interlaken You Need to Ride
If you love mountain biking, Interlaken is a dream come true. Whether you’re after a relaxed ride along a scenic lake or a heart-pumping climb into the Alps, this region has it all. From beginners to seasoned riders, there’s a trail for everyone, each offering incredible views and an unforgettable adventure.
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One of the best things about biking here?
Every climb is rewarded—whether it’s with a glimpse of a snow-capped peak, a quiet moment in a lush valley, or a charming Swiss chalet that looks straight out of a postcard.
With so many great trails, here’s a breakdown of some of the best routes, grouped by difficulty level.
Let’s get rolling!
Mid-Level Biking Trails in Interlaken
Bussalp Loop
This Bussalp scenic loop begins in Grindelwald, where bike riders are greeted by classic Swiss chalets and alpine farms decorated with stunning granite. The Bussalp climb is one to remember. Riders are greeted with nearly 1,000 meters of elevation gain and breathtaking views. “”
The mountain restaurant, Rasthysi,” is a known rest stop located in the midsection of the climb, where cyclists can take a breather and grab a refreshing drink or warm Swiss raclette. The scenic views do not end there. Riders are still rewarded with smooth gravel paths during the downhill climb.
- Distance: 18.3 km
- Elevation gain: 976 m
- Elevation loss: 975 m
- Highest point: 1,800 m
- Link: https://www.trailforks.com/route/bussalp-loop/
Lake Brienz Loop
This ride around Lake Brienz is beautiful with its stretches of flat lakeside roads and steep climbs. From Interlaken, you will cruise through Iseltwald and Brienz, both showcasing stunning views of the lake's turquoise colors.
The southern side of the lake is mostly flat and therefore easier to ride, while the northern side has steeper inclines with a combination of asphalt and gravel paths, making it more challenging. Giessbach Falls is a notable stop on this route, where you can take a quick detour to view the amazing waterfall as it pours into the lake.
- Distance: 36 km
- Ascent: 850 m
- Descent: 850 m
- Max elevation: 900 m
- link: https://www.komoot.com/smarttour/e1727688868/lake-brienz-loop
Challenging Biking Trails in Interlaken
Lauterbrunnen Loop (from Interlaken Ost)
This route is great for anyone seeking both length and a rewarding view. Starting in Interlaken and moving through the Lauterbrunnen Valley, this ride then gets steeper with a mix of gravel roads, and forest trails before circling back down to Wengen.
Gazing at the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau becomes a reality for all trekkers of these breathtaking mountains. Mountain huts are available for snacks before the exhilarating flight back to Interlaken.
- Distance: 42 km
- Ascent: 1,400 m
- Descent: 1,400 m
- Max altitude: 1,300 m
- Link: https://www.komoot.com/smarttour/1822478
Mürren Circuit
Mürren, the car-restricted mountain village, is the first place of interest in this pedal-positive loop that enables sustainable tourism. The steeper section begins at Lauterbrunnen which serves as the central point of the region.
A well-deserved rest is enabled in this beautiful village till trekkers descend back to Lauterbrunnen. This technical descent requires adept control of the biking.
- Distance: 28 km
- Ascent: 1,200 m
- Descent: 1,200 m
- Max altitude: 1,650 m
- Link: https://www.mtbproject.com/trail/7015971/murren-loop
Bachalpsee Loop
Head out from Grindelwald and this route through the steep behind the most stunning alpine lake Bachalpsee will reward you with exquisite scenery. The steep and treacherous routes are loaded with surprises.
At the apex, witness breathtaking lingering views of snow-covered peaks mirrored across the water's edge. The return trip is a blend of single-track and gravel paths, which makes for an exhilarating descent back towards Grindelwald.
- Distance: 25 km
- Ascent: 1,100 m
- Descent: 1,100 m
- Max altitude: 2,265 m
- Link: https://www.trailforks.com/route/bachalpsee-loop/
Final Tips for Mountain Biking in Interlaken
Look out for hikers. Several paths are multi-use, so it is courteous to yield when needed.
Be ready for unexpected changes in weather. The mountains can be a bit wild, so be sure to bring an additional layer of clothing.
Think about an e-bike. If you're not used to steep ascents, an electric mountain bike can make the experience much more pleasant.
Remember to check your brakes! Some descents are steep and long, so proper brakes are essential.
