Mountain Bike Safari-Stage 15: Kirchberg – St. Johann in Tirol

Trail description: In Kirchberg, take Gaisberg Chair Lift for an effortless uphill ride atop Gaisberg Mountain. From the top terminal, the trail corkscrews down through dense forest at first, before breaking out into the open and reaching the village of Kirchberg. For hardcore downhill riders, there are two optional kick-butt downhills, “Lisi Osl Trail” (S2) and “Gaisberg Trail” (S2, short sections are rated S3). Crossing the village, please pay attention to the signs at the bridge (demanding a very short hike-a-bike section). Having left the village behind, turn right to get to the base of Fleckalmbahn Gondola.

Ride the gondola to the top of Ehrenbachhöhe from where a short descent brings you to the climb towards Pengelstein, gaining 200 meters in height. From there, it’s a long descent to Jochberg on gravel. In Jochberg, turn left onto Schwerterweg Trail and follow the cycle path to Kitzbühel. Having passed the charming small town, a short climb brings you to Schwarzsee Lake. Those wanting to cool off in the beautiful lake leave the route at Bahnhof Schwarzsee railroad station and continue cycling straight ahead to reach the lake. Trail riders leave the main route atop Ehrenbachhöhe, which is the trailhead for the 7-kilometer long Fleckalm Trail (S2, short sections are rated S3). Back down in the valley, a cycle path skirts Schwarzsee Lake before it merges onto the main route. A few short climbs ahead you will reach Rettenberg Mountain, from where the path coasts down to Oberndorf. A gentle and fairly level road takes you to St. Johann.