Green Trails project: Europe's largest trail network

The Green Trails project:

• 14 bike parks are to be newly created and interconnected as part of the Green Trail project.
• 20 million euros are the total planning and construction costs.
• 400 kilometres includes the planned network of flow trails and existing paths.

The pace of development of mountain biking as a sport has been furious for more than 40 years. The development of the infrastructure is progressing comparatively slowly. At least in Germany. The Green Trail MTB network in the Waldeck-Frankenberg district is now the start of an ambitious large-scale project.

Five years ago, there was initial speculation about a planned Trail network for mountain bikers around Willingen through the media. Various bike parks were being built and linked together, according to the rumour mill. Back then it was called Border Trail" project. Information was scarce, and when it was, it was only available on the quiet. Yes, it was rumoured in familiar circles, there is such a project idea. However, no official authorisations have yet been granted. Hence the reticence of those responsible.

Now it's official: Europe's largest trail network for bikers is to be created by 2026

A unique world of adventure consisting of 14 bike parks, 200 kilometres of flow trails and 200 kilometres of existing paths and trails. All closely interlinked. 14 local authorities in the district of Waldeck-Frankenberg are involved in the Green Trails. The investment totals almost 20 million euros and is being funded by the EU and the state of Hesse. Construction of the Korbach pilot park is due to start this autumn. The opening of the spot is planned for next summer. A great interim success. But the organisers are nervous. On the one hand, to convince the last critics. On the other hand, because the Green Trails The region has high economic hopes for the future.

• MTB flow trails for children and parents in Germany
• Mecca for mountain bikers: the Sauerland
• The 14 best MTB trails in Germany

The Green Trails trail parks and routes are planned, realised and built by Flow Country expert Diddie Schneiderwho is also responsible for the Bike parks on the Geisskopf and in Willingen together with Thomas Schlecking (Bike Projects) and the Lichtenfels-based planning office Bioline.

These 14 towns and municipalities are involved in the Green Trails project:

• Bad Arolsen
• Bad Wildungen
• Battenberg
• Diemelsee
• Diemelstadt
• Edertal
• Hatzfeld
• Korbach
• Lichtenfels
• Twistetal
• Vöhl
• Volkmarsen
• Waldeck
• Willingen