4.5
(1308)
4,841
hikers
42
hikes
Hiking around Maiburg offers diverse trails through an Ice Age-shaped landscape within the Ankumer Heights. The region features forests, babbling brooks, and picturesque ravine valleys, some with stairs and footbridges. Near-natural waters and unique "Tangen" systems, which are waterways carving deep, branching valleys, characterize the terrain. This area provides varied natural experiences for hikers seeking to explore its rich geological and historical features.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(90)
292
hikers
5.32km
01:25
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(31)
106
hikers
9.04km
02:23
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.7
(70)
173
hikers
5.78km
01:31
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(18)
49
hikers
6.90km
01:49
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(8)
27
hikers
7.54km
01:59
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The gorge systems, called Tangen, are typical of this area, which is now a nature reserve. Tang is Low German and means "pincer" or "branch." The term describes the waterways that originated in the Maiburg and cut deep, branching valleys into the terminal moraine landscape. An information board on site provides detailed information about the formation of the Ankum Heights and the Maiburger Tangen.
2
0
This is where the fox's trail through the Maiburg begins. The Maiburg is a 1,000-hectare forest area, over half of which is managed by the Lower Saxony State Forests. The forest nature trail, which begins here, was created in 1968 in close cooperation with the municipality of Bippen. The Vosspäddken - the fox's trail - explains some of the special features of the forest, nature, and forestry. The fox symbol shows the way.
0
0
The "Witches' Dance Ground" is located on the Qualenberg (Torment Mountain). It was believed that witches, the devil's servants, held their pagan festivals at this spot. The May celebrations on Walpurgis Night may have given the mountain its name "Maiberg," today "Maiburg."
0
0
The Ice Age granite boulder bears the unusual name "Deuvel's Breadbox." Due to its size and flat top, it may have been used as a sacrificial or cult stone. The stone's name probably derives from a natural crack on its front: the boulder looks as if it could be opened like a breadbox. Descendants, who could not explain the origin and significance of the large boulder, rumored that it was the devil's breadbox. The boulder was once connected to the nearby "Witches' Dance Floor," now so called, by a row of stones, the fragments of which can still be seen.
0
0
Here you can first see a branch with a leaf or needle and fruit on folding panels. Then it's time to guess?!? 🤓 Inside the folding panels you will then find the solution and description.
0
0
On numerous folding panels you can first see a branch with a leaf or needle and fruit and get a description of the bark. Now it's time to guess...?!? 🤓 The answer and description of this tree then follows inside.
0
0
You can make a sacrifice ;)
0
1
Maiburg offers a unique landscape shaped by the Ice Age, featuring beautiful forests, babbling brooks, and picturesque ravine valleys. You'll encounter near-natural waters and distinctive "Tangen" systems, which are waterways that have carved deep, branching valleys into the terminal moraine landscape. The terrain provides a diverse natural experience for hikers.
Yes, Maiburg boasts a wide selection of hiking routes. There are nearly 50 different trails to explore, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
The trails in Maiburg offer a range of difficulty levels. You'll find plenty of easy routes, with over 30 options available, along with a good selection of moderate trails and a few more challenging paths for experienced hikers.
Maiburg is a great destination for families. Many trails are suitable for all ages, and routes like the Witches' Staircase – Maiburg Forest Playground loop from Besterberg lead through varied forest landscapes and can include a visit to a forest playground, making them enjoyable for children.
Maiburg is rich in history and natural wonders. You can explore the ancient Dalum Megalithic Tomb, a Neolithic burial chamber. Other intriguing sites include the renovated Witches' Staircase, the legendary Hexentanzplatz (Witches' Dance Floor), and the Deuvels Brotschapp — Sacrificial Stone, an Ice Age granite boulder. The Tangen Gorge also offers a scenic natural feature.
Yes, many of the trails in Maiburg are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Tangen Gorge – Witches' Staircase loop from Riegeberg is an easy circular route that takes you through scenic gorge areas.
The hiking routes in Maiburg are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the well-maintained paths, and the unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites.
Maiburg is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas, and to check for any specific local regulations or signage along your chosen route.
Yes, there are usually designated parking areas near the main trailheads and access points to the Maiburg nature reserve. Specific parking information can often be found on local signage or detailed route descriptions.
Maiburg offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be magical with snow-covered landscapes, though some paths might be slippery. The diverse forests and ravine valleys provide shelter and beauty in every season.
Absolutely. Many trails in Maiburg weave together its natural beauty with its rich history. The Witches' Staircase – Hexentanzplatz Maiburg loop from Bippen is a great example, connecting two historically significant and legendary sites within the forest while offering scenic views.
Yes, the Ice Age-shaped landscape of Maiburg is characterized by babbling brooks and unique "Tangen" systems, which are waterways carving deep valleys. The Tangen Gorge – Witches' Staircase loop from Riegeberg specifically highlights the scenic gorge areas and water features of the region.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.