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Gravel in the mountains

What is gravel?

Gravel biking is a mix of riding on gravel roads and paved roads. A gravel bike looks similar to a road bike with drop handlebars, but it has wider tires that provide better grip and make riding more comfortable on a variety of surfaces.

Unlike mountain biking, gravel biking mainly takes place on paved roads and gravel roads rather than on technical forest trails. One characteristic of gravel biking is that the wind can feel quite strong on certain sections of the routes.

Gravel Routes from Idre Fjäll

All routes start from Idre Fjäll’s cycling area and can be enjoyed as a day trip or combined into a multi-day cycling adventure.

Nipfjällsrundan – 37 km Round Trip

Nipfjällsrundan is a gravel route offering sweeping mountain views, steady climbs, and the feeling of riding through a scenic alpine landscape.

  • 28 km gravel
  • 9 km paved road
  • 650 m elevation gain
  • Estimated time: 2–3 hours

View route on map
Download GPX file

Fjätfallsrundan – 40 km route

Fjätfallsrundan is a medium-length ride featuring a mix of surfaces and a steady elevation profile. It's an excellent choice for a warm-up ride or a shorter day trip.

  • 21 km gravel
  • 19 km paved road
  • 480 m elevation gain
  • Estimated time: 1.5–2.5 hours

View route on map
Download GPX file

10-milarundan – 100 km Round Trip

10-milarundan is a full-day ride where distance and endurance are the main challenges. Parts of the route follow paved roads with vehicle traffic.

  • 30 km gravel
  • 70 km paved road
  • 720 m elevation gain
  • Estimated time: 4–6 hours, depending on your pace

View route on map
Download GPX File

Frequently asked questions about gravel

What Is the Difference Between Gravel Biking and Mountain Biking?

Gravel biking mainly takes place on gravel roads and paved surfaces, where rides are often longer in distance. Mountain biking focuses more on technical trails with roots, rocks, and narrower singletrack sections. When gravel biking, you typically ride on wider roads with a clear elevation profile, making endurance and pace more important than technical bike handling.

How hilly are the gravel rides at Idre Fjäll?

The routes include noticeable elevation changes, especially Nipfjällsrundan with its 650 meters of climbing. The ascents are generally steady rather than steep and technical, making the effort more endurance-based. Wind on exposed sections can also affect the level of exertion and should be taken into account when planning your ride.

How do I prepare for a longer gravel ride in the mountains?

Check your bike thoroughly, plan your nutrition and hydration, and dress in layers. Download the GPX file in advance and make sure your phone is fully charged. Let someone know your planned route and expected return time.

How do I plan accommodation and logistics?

Since all routes start from Idre Fjäll, you can stay close to the trails and ride directly from the resort area. This reduces the need for car transport and makes it easier to spread your rides over several days. For longer routes, plan your food and hydration in advance.

Where do the guided tours start from?

If you have booked a guided tour, your guide will meet you at The Square. From there, you will ride together with your guide directly from the meeting point.

Safe Gravel Riding

The gravel routes combine quiet gravel roads and public roads. Therefore, please remember to:

  • Follow traffic regulations when riding on public roads.
  • Keep to the right and make yourself visible to other road users.
  • Adjust your speed on descents.
  • Show consideration for both other road users and animals.

Always let someone know your planned route so that help can reach you if needed. At Idre Fjäll, we always wear a helmet when cycling.