On September 13th, the Kinzigtal will once again belong to cyclists and skaters. After its cancellation last year, “Kinzigtal Total” is returning - but with some changes. How long is the route? Where can you get in? What do you have to consider when arriving? The most important questions and answers about “Hesse’s longest street festival”.
When does “Kinzigtal Total” take place?
Cyclist Sunday is on Sunday, September 13th. The route is closed to car traffic from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. During this time, cyclists and skaters can use the designated route.
Where is the route?
The official route this year is around 60 kilometers long. It begins in Sinntal-Sterbfritz and leads via Schlüchtern, Steinau, Bad Soden-Salmünster, Waechtersbach, Biebergemünd, Gelnhausen and Gründau to Langenselbold. The official kick-off will take place at 10 a.m. at the town hall in Sinntal-Sterbfritz. The Kinzigquelle is located on the outskirts of the community, which is why the start is traditionally there.
Do I have to drive the entire 60 kilometers?
No. That is exactly one of the advantages of “Kinzigtal Total”. The route can be ridden in its entirety, but participants can also get on at any suitable point and only tackle one section. For example, if you are traveling with children or are not confident enough to go on a longer tour, you can choose a shorter stage.
Is there a practical tip?
The direction of travel is freely selectable - you can also start in Langenselbold or Gelnhausen and drive uphill towards Schlüchtern and Sinntal. In practice, it is recommended that leisure cyclists who are not so sporty choose the classic route downhill from Kinzig, as this route always leads slightly downhill.
Who can take part?
“Kinzigtal Total” is expressly not a cycling race. Cyclists, skaters and other non-motorized riders can take part. The offer is aimed particularly at families and recreational athletes. Mutual consideration is important, because there can be very different participants on the route - from sporty racing cyclists to children on bikes with training wheels.
What is there along the route?
If you need a break on the go, you will find numerous options. Clubs and organizations take care of food, entertainment with live music and variety. There are special contact points, among others, on Barbarossastraße in Gelnhausen, in the spa park of Bad Soden-Salmünster and in the old town of Steinau an der Straße. There are also numerous opportunities along the rest of the route to get off the bike and take a break. It is precisely this supporting program that creates the special charm of “Hesse’s longest street festival”.
How fit do you have to be for the route?
That depends on how much you plan to do. The entire route of around 60 kilometers is a demanding day tour for many recreational cyclists. If you want to take it more leisurely, you can choose a shorter section.
What about e-bikes?
Especially for longer distances, they can be a practical way to complete the tour without excessive effort. In recent years, e-bike riders have made up the lion's share of participants.
Can I travel to the event by car?
Yes, but the trip must be planned carefully because the official route is closed to car traffic from 10 a.m. The route can then only be crossed at designated points. Anyone traveling by car should therefore head to a parking space before the closure begins, if possible.
Is there a special train?
No, not this year. The Kinzigtal can be easily reached from Frankfurt, Offenbach and Hanau using regular train services. If you travel by regional train, you should take into account that the options for taking bikes with you are limited.
What has changed after the cancellation in 2025?
In 2025, “Kinzigtal Total” was canceled for safety reasons. The Main-Kinzig district explained that the safety concept required for the route could not be implemented adequately. The concept has now been comprehensively reviewed for the new edition. According to the district, there were discussions with security authorities and external experts. Among other things, alarm and emergency plans were expanded, communication channels were defined and responsibilities were bindingly regulated. Structural adjustments and additional helpers are also planned.
Is the route safe?
The Main-Kinzig district emphasizes that the route is carefully cordoned off and the safety concept has been further developed. According to District Administrator Thorsten Stolz (SPD), many of the additional measures remain “behind the scenes”.
What should I pack for the day?
If you plan to be out and about for several hours, you should not only bring enough drinks but also bring sun protection and, if necessary, rain gear. A small repair kit for bicycle punctures can also be useful. Since there are numerous food options along the route - from grilled sausages to coffee and cake - you don't have to take all your provisions with you for the day. The stations along the route invite you to take a break and are fun.
