The best running trails around Hardtwald
4.4
(123)
2,904
runners
103
runs
Jogging around Hardtwald offers access to a sprawling wooded area characterized by well-maintained trails and diverse natural features. The region provides a refreshing escape with paths featuring minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for various fitness levels. Surfaces include a mix of asphalt, gravel, and unpaved sections, offering varied terrain for runners. This extensive forest cover, located near Karlsruhe, provides a scenic environment throughout the seasons.
Best jogging routes around Hardtwald
- The most popular jogging route is Active Trail Wildpark – Calisthenics area in the forest loop from Federal Constitutional Court, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes about 29 minutes to complete. This route features a calisthenics area within the forest.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Old Airfield – Information pillar; Old airfield loop from Federal Constitutional Court, a moderate 3.9 miles (6.2 km) path. This route passes an information pillar and explores the open spaces of an old airfield.
- Local runners also love the Schlossgarten Lake, Karlsruhe – Karl-Drais-Weg Forest Path loop from Waldstadt, a 7.4 miles (11.8 km) trail leading through the Schlossgarten Lake area and along the Karl-Drais-Weg Forest Path, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Jogging around Hardtwald is defined by extensive forest cover, designated running paths, and minimal elevation changes. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Hardtwald are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 2,700 runners have used komoot to explore Hardtwald's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.5
(6)
330
runners
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(13)
237
runners
16.6km
01:44
30m
30m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(39)
363
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
151
runners
17.2km
01:50
40m
40m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
148
runners
4.65km
00:30
10m
10m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Emil Sutor's "Fighter (Naked Siegfried)" is an example of Nazi art. It was commissioned for the construction of a new barracks, which was inaugurated in April 1938. The sculpture was cast and erected in 1939. True to the commission, the sculpture depicts a grim-faced, battle-ready man, prepared for the ultimate act. The bronze work has suffered the ravages of time: the body is riddled with bullet holes from the war, and the sword has long since broken off.
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The information column offers a wealth of information about the history of today's green space between Nordstadt and Neureut. Formerly an airfield, zeppelins landed here even earlier. After the site was returned to the city of Karlsruhe by the US military in 1993, the local council thankfully decided not to develop it. The sandy soil here is very nutrient-poor. This created a natural habitat unique in the Upper Rhine Valley for many species of birds, butterflies, and flowering plants. Designated a nature reserve since 2010.
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The Old Airfield is a largely flat sandy area with nutrient-poor soil, atypical for the region. This has created a habitat that is virtually unique in the northern Upper Rhine Plain. Over 80 bird species, 100 moth species, and 280 different flowering plant species have been recorded to date. It has been designated a nature reserve since 2010. There is a surrounding path that offers views over the old airfield and into the distance beyond.
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Beautiful, new calisthenics facility in the shade of the forest
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The Old Airfield is a largely flat sandy area with nutrient-poor soil, atypical for the region. This has created a habitat that is virtually unique in the northern Upper Rhine Plain. Over 80 bird species, 100 moth species, and 280 different flowering plant species have been identified to date. It has been designated a nature reserve since 2010. There is a surrounding path that offers views over the old airfield and into the distance beyond.
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Lots of pictures and background information * great place to mobilize & stretch.
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The burial chapel is currently not worth seeing due to construction work
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails in Hardtwald?
The running routes in Hardtwald feature a varied terrain, including a mix of asphalt, gravel, and unpaved paths. This offers different surfaces for your run, from smoother sections to more natural forest floors.
Are there many easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes in Hardtwald?
Yes, Hardtwald is well-suited for beginners and those looking for an easier run. Many paths are characterized by minimal elevation changes, making them accessible and enjoyable for a range of fitness levels. Out of nearly 100 routes, about 20 are rated as easy.
Can I find circular running routes in Hardtwald?
Absolutely. Hardtwald offers numerous circular running routes. For example, the Active Trail Wildpark – Calisthenics area in the forest loop is a popular circular option, as is the Old Airfield – Information pillar; Old airfield loop.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while jogging in Hardtwald?
Hardtwald is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You'll experience extensive forest cover with diverse tree species. Along some routes, you might encounter the Otto-Rahn-Hütte, the Grenzschneise, or even a 500-year-old oak tree natural monument. The Kohlplattenschlag Lake Nature Reserve is another beautiful spot to look out for.
Are there any family-friendly running paths in Hardtwald?
Yes, Hardtwald offers several options suitable for families. The minimal elevation changes on many routes make them ideal for all ages. There's even a forest playground with a shelter, providing a great spot for relaxation and picnics during or after your run.
Where can I park my car to access the running trails in Hardtwald?
Convenient access points with parking include a car park at the Waldfriedhof (forest cemetery). You can also start your run from areas like Philosophenweg, Am Pilgerrain, and near the Hardtwaldschule in Seulberg.
What do other runners say about the jogging experience in Hardtwald?
The running routes in Hardtwald are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Runners often praise the well-maintained trails, the refreshing escape into nature, and the varied terrain that caters to different preferences.
Are there any specific routes that pass by water features or lakes?
Yes, some routes incorporate water features. For instance, the Schlossgarten Lake, Karlsruhe – Karl-Drais-Weg Forest Path loop leads through the picturesque Schlossgarten Lake area. You can also find the Kohlplattenschlag Lake Nature Reserve nearby.
How many running routes are available in the Hardtwald area?
There are nearly 100 dedicated running routes available around Hardtwald, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels for joggers of all abilities.
Can I combine different running routes to create a longer run?
Yes, the system of designated running routes in Hardtwald is designed to be flexible. Many paths can be combined, allowing you to customize your workout and create longer runs tailored to your desired distance and duration.
Are there any specific routes that are particularly scenic or offer good views?
While Hardtwald is primarily a forested area, offering lush and scenic environments, routes like the Karlsruhe Palace Garden – Schlossgarten Lake loop provide beautiful views of the palace gardens and lake. The extensive forest cover itself provides a refreshing and picturesque backdrop throughout the seasons.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Hardtwald?
Hardtwald offers a beautiful environment for jogging throughout the seasons. The extensive forest cover provides a lush setting in spring and summer, vibrant colors in autumn, and a serene atmosphere in winter. The well-maintained trails are generally accessible year-round, though conditions may vary with weather.
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