Cycling & running events in Bergisch Gladbach, 2026

Bergisch Gladbach Training Notes

Running: Locals build runs around Königsforst, Refrath, Schildgen, Bensberg, Ommerborn, Rommerscheid, Moitzfeld, and Herkenrath. Königsforst does the heavy lifting for forest miles, tempo loops, and long Z2 Sundays. Running Team – TV Refrath gives the scene its serious-club feel. TV Refrath sits beside clubs like TV Herkenrath, TV Bensberg, TuS Schildgen 1932, and Turnerschaft Bergisch Gladbach 1879. Winterlaufserie Bergisch Gladbach offers 7.8 km and 5.2 km. Bergisch Gladbacher Stadtlauf keeps the city sharp with 3 km and 7 km. Refrather Herbstlauf brings 5 km and 10 km speed. Biesfelder Dorflauf keeps it local with 5 km, 2.1 km, and 0.8 km.

Cycling: Locals ride west for flatter cycling routes toward the Cologne Bay and east when the legs need hills. Bergisches Land gives you challenging cycling routes and leisurely tours with slight inclines. RSV Staubwolke Refrath 1952 is the cycling name locals know. The route covers 84 km and gains 485 m. Uppersberg gives the first challenging climb, and the high-altitude path between Altenhufe and Voiswinkel opens the countryside. Hornpottweg nature reserve, Nußbaumer Weg trail, and repeated Dhünn crossings keep the ride varied. Schwalbe Bike Park tours add hilly work around Reichshof.

Season: Locals treat summer as the easy season for base miles, forest running, gravel, and longer rides. Von-Diergardt-See gives hot-day swimmers a clean target after a run or ride. Königsforst stays useful when the city centre feels too warm. Winter changes the rhythm, not the habit. The 44th Königsforst-Marathon was surprised by snow, so locals keep layers ready and accept slower Z2. Winterlaufserie Bergisch Gladbach and the 57. Winterlaufserie der SG Bockenberg 26/27 give the cold months an anchor event, with races from 5.2 km and 7.8 km up to 11.7 km.