Pure excitement: 9th Rennsteig ride starts in Schmiedefeld!

Pure excitement: 9th Rennsteig ride starts in Schmiedefeld!

On Saturday, September 5, 2025, Schmiedefeld will be the venue for the 9th Rennsteig Ride, an event for mountain bike fans that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The event attracts several hundred participants, from beginners to the most ambitious riders. The unique backdrop of the Thuringian Forest becomes the supporting program that combines sporting competitions with flowing sections and technical passages. This exciting sporting event is organized by Rennsteiglauf Sportmanagement & Touristik GmbH, without which such an event would be unthinkable.

The challenging route was designed by René Tann, one of the experienced route builders, who ensures that both the safety and attractiveness of the trails are guaranteed. Numerous signs that were set up the day before guide participants through the different distances of the race.

Mountain bike strategy in the Thuringian Forest

The decision to develop the Thuringian Forest as a mountain bike destination is part of a comprehensive strategy of the Thuringian Forest regional association. The aim is to create a coordinated and legal route network on natural paths that is compatible with nature conservation and suitable for all levels of experience. This is supported by investments in improved service offerings and uniform standards for signage and route maintenance. In addition, local mountain bike experts, also known as route sponsors, bring their valuable expertise to this project to make the region even more attractive for enthusiasts of this sport.

But the offer for mountain bikers goes far beyond the Rennsteig ride. The Rennsteig cycle path stretches over 200 kilometers from Hörschel near Eisenach to Blankenstein and crosses several nature parks, including the Thuringian Forest, the Franconian Forest and the Thuringian Slate Mountains. There are many sights along the route that make the trip an unforgettable experience. These include the Wartburg near Eisenach, the “mini-a-thür” miniature park in Ruhla and the Ebertswiese mountain lake near Floh-Seligenthal.

An Eldorado for nature and sports lovers

Lovers will get their money's worth when passing through places steeped in history such as Oberhof, the most famous winter sports resort in Thuringia, and Masserberg, a climatic health resort with a bathhouse. Neuhaus, the glassblowing town, is also a worthwhile detour. For those seeking adventure, there are detours to Lauscha, the cradle of Christmas tree decorations, and the high ropes climbing garden in Steinach. This diversity makes the Rennsteig cycle path attractive not only for ambitious cyclists and mountain bikers, but also for all nature and sports lovers who want to experience the beauty of the Thuringian Forest.

Demand for mountain bike offerings has steadily increased in recent years, and the Rennsteig ride is a great example of the path the region is taking to establish itself as a leading location for bikers. It is an initiative that shows the heart of the Thuringian Forest in all its splendor and diversity and could bring new fame to the region.