17.07.2026 | 12.00 p.m.
14 kilometers, 300 vertical meters, 1 lap
FEW KILOMETERS, LOTS OF FUN: THE FIRST STAGE AT 3RIDES GRAVEL WINTERBERG BECOMES A GRAVEL ROLLERCOASTER IN A BATTLE AGAINST THE CLOCK
17-19 JULY 2026 IN WINTERBERG
The opening stage (14 km / approx. 300 m) serves as an explosive gravel time trial and leads almost exclusively over unpaved paths in the immediate vicinity of the Winterberg sports facilities. The field starts on the plateau at the bike park and dives directly into the wooded slopes above the ski lift carousel.
The route initially runs over the striking mountain ridges to the north of the town, offering sweeping views across the Hochsauerland before dropping down into the shady Jumecke valley. After a passage below the Bremberg, a technically demanding section follows through dense coniferous forest passages, which are typical for this altitude of the Rothaargebirge.
The last third leads the riders back up from the lower forest areas. The route follows fast forest paths along the edge of the ski slopes before reaching the finish area on the plateau again. This prologue relies less on long roller passages and more on the constant changes of direction in the hilly terrain around the Herrloh.
THE ROAD:
