4.5
(7589)
35,877
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around Kurler Busch offers diverse and well-preserved natural environments just outside Dortmund. The region is characterized by lush mixed oak forests, smaller beech islands, and expansive forest meadows. Several small ponds and larger water bodies, including the Rahmsloher Bach, contribute to crucial wetland biotopes. This extensive nature reserve provides a varied terrain of forests and fields, ensuring a natural hiking experience.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.7
(20)
59
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(3)
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Here you can still see deer running across your path.
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The "Witches' Circle," as it's known in the area. The willows have been heavily pruned and aren't quite as impressive at the moment. They stand in a circle in a large meadow on private property. It's easy to see why this is supposed to be a magical place. Even if that's just a bit of nonsense, you can simply enjoy the pretty willows.
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Unfortunately, this HL is very often created here, which is not helpful.
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The special thing is that there are plenty of somewhat more challenging, natural paths - but you can always switch to the wide forest roads if you want to.
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Volker is right! There are signs saying not to enter the agricultural land. Even now in winter, after a lot of rain, there's very little water. Enough for one photo, but whether it's enough for a full-length shot is up to each individual to decide.
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It looked pretty run-down both inside and out, so probably not a HL for me 🤷♀️
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The Kurler Busch is the largest nature reserve in the city of Dortmund. It is located in the northeast of the city, in the Scharnhorst district, and borders the districts of Kurl and Husen, as well as Lanstrop. The area was declared a nature reserve in 1986 and reaffirmed in the landscape plan in 2020. It serves as an important refuge for forest- and water-dependent animal and plant species.
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Kurler Busch offers a network of over 15 hiking trails, all categorized as easy, making them suitable for various fitness levels. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the nature reserve.
Hikers in Kurler Busch will encounter diverse natural features, including lush mixed oak forests, smaller beech islands, and expansive forest meadows. The area also features several small ponds and larger water bodies, such as the Rahmsloher Bach, which contribute to vital wetland biotopes. You can also discover specific natural monuments like the Circle of five pollarded willows on Rahmsloher Weg or the Ancient Beech Tree at the Forest Edge.
Yes, Kurler Busch is well-known for its relaxed loop trails. For example, you can enjoy the Kurler Busch Beechwood – Kurler Busch Nature Reserve loop from NSG Kurler Busch, an easy 5 km route that takes about 1 hour 16 minutes, or the slightly longer View of Lanstroper Ei – Kurler Busch Nature Reserve loop from NSG Kurler Busch, which is 5.7 km.
The terrain in Kurler Busch is varied, offering a mix of forests and fields. The paths are primarily footpaths and forest roads, providing a natural hiking experience. The routes are generally flat with minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for most walkers.
Absolutely. All routes in Kurler Busch are rated as easy, making them ideal for family outings. The diverse forests and natural features provide an engaging environment for children to explore. The relaxed loop trails are perfect for a leisurely walk with the whole family.
Kurler Busch is generally dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for walks with your canine companion. However, as it is a nature reserve, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
While hiking, you can enjoy views towards the Lanstroper Ei, a notable local landmark. Many routes, such as the Kurler Busch Nature Reserve – View of Lanstroper Ei loop from NSG Kurler Busch, incorporate these scenic vistas into the experience.
The komoot community highly rates Kurler Busch, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquility, the well-preserved natural environment, and the diverse landscapes that offer a serene escape close to Dortmund.
Yes, for refreshments after your hike, you can visit Mowwe Restaurant & Café, which is conveniently located near the Kurler Busch area and offers a pleasant spot to relax.
Kurler Busch offers a pleasant hiking experience throughout the year. The diverse forests are beautiful in spring with new growth, lush in summer, vibrant with colors in autumn, and offer a peaceful, quiet atmosphere in winter. The deciduous trees are particularly resilient, ensuring a healthy forest environment in any season.
Yes, there are parking options available around Kurler Busch, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car. Specific parking information can often be found on local maps or by searching for 'Kurler Busch parkplatz'.
Kurler Busch is located just outside Dortmund, and public transport options are available to reach the vicinity of the nature reserve. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for the most convenient access points from Dortmund or surrounding areas.
While all routes are generally easy, you can combine several of the shorter loop trails to create a longer hiking experience. For instance, the Evangelical Church Husen-Kurl – Bridge Over the Körnebach loop from NSG Kurler Busch offers a 4.6 km route that can be linked with others for an extended walk through varied forest landscapes and along the Körnebach.


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