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Mountain Bike recommended route Mountain Bike  · Upper Carniola

Polhov Gradec Epic Loop

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Andrej N. 
  • Footpath towards Grmada
    Footpath towards Grmada
    Photo: Andrej N., Community
Map / Polhov Gradec Epic Loop

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    A brutal and unconventional MTB loop in the Polhov Gradec Hills. Steep hike-a-bikes, hidden trails and technical descents close to Ljubljana.
    difficult
    Distance 41 km
    7:00 h
    1,424 m
    1,415 m
    784 m
    305 m

    With the Polhov Gradec Hills practically on the doorstep, the idea was simple: design something different. After scouting sections on foot during winter, the result is a loop that may test both legs and motivation.

    Starting in Stranska vas, the route climbs via Toško Čelo and Topol before leaving comfort behind. Instead of the usual ascent to Katarina, the ride continues toward Dobnikar and turns onto rough cart tracks below Grmada. What begins as a pleasant climb soon transforms into rocky singletrack, pushing and carrying included. Near the highest point (785 m), wide open terrain creates a dramatic backdrop before a flowing descent leads toward Polhov Gradec.

    A fast and playful drop toward Mačkov graben is followed by refreshment options in Polhov Gradec. From there, the real grind begins: a steep climb to Koreno under the summer sun, then a maze of forest tracks toward Ključ and Babna Gora, where riding often turns into pushing.

    The final descent toward Dobrova demands full focus. Deep erosion channels cut through the track, turning it into a narrow bobsleigh corridor. Precision matters until the valley is finally reached.

    This loop is close to civilization—but feels far from easy. Read more...

    Author’s recommendation

    Only attempt the full return if you truly enjoy pushing your bike. Otherwise, descend to Dobrova by road.
    Difficulty
    S2 difficult
    Overall difficulty
    difficult

    Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

    Experience
    Landscape
    Highest point
    784 m
    Lowest point
    305 m
    Best time of year
    Jan
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    Track types

    Length
    41 km
    Show elevation profile

    Safety information

    Frequent hike-a-bike sections, technicaly demanding rocky descent towards

    hunting lodge, steep forest tracks and heavily eroded descents. Good bike handling skills required.

    Tips and suggestions

    In hot weather, refill water in Polhov Gradec—there are no reliable sources on the return section.

    Roadbook

    • Start / Finish: Stranska vas
    • Podutik – Toško Čelo – Topol
    • Dobnikar – Goljek – slopes below Grmada
    • High point near Grmada (785 m)
    • Descent toward Polhov Gradec
    • Mačkov graben – Polhov Gradec
    • Climb to Koreno (705 m)
    • Ključ (623 m) – Babna Gora – Zibel
    • Vrhe (603 m)
    • Technical descent to Dobrova
    Rest stop
    Tip
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    Coordinates

    DD
    46.060711, 14.423112
    DMS
    46°03'38.6"N 14°25'23.2"E
    UTM
    33T 455379 5100954
    w3w 
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    Get there by train, car, bike, or on foot!

    Equipment

    all-mountain or full-suspension XC bike,  knee protectors recommended

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    Difficulty
    S2 difficult
    Overall difficulty
    difficult

    Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

    Distance
    41 km
    Duration
    7:00 h
    Ascent
    1,424 m
    Descent
    1,415 m
    Highest point
    784 m
    Lowest point
    305 m
    Round trip Scenic Geological highlights Flora Singletrail/Free ride

    Weather at the starting point

    10-day forecast

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