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Bad Harzburg

Top 20 Waterfalls around Bad Harzburg

Best waterfalls around Bad Harzburg offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest within the Harz region. The area features both natural and man-made cascades, providing diverse settings for exploration. Visitors can explore various settings, from easily accessible roadside attractions to picturesque river valleys, offering opportunities for hiking and observing the local landscape.

Best waterfalls around Bad Harzburg

  • The most popular waterfalls is Lower Ilse Falls, a waterfall that is part of one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Harz. The Ilsetal is considered a worthwhile destination year-round.
  • Another must-see spot is Upper Ilse Falls, a waterfall where the Ilse plunges over a distance of one kilometer, dropping about 120 meters. The roaring sound of the Ilse can be heard from afar, and the area includes a Heinrich Heine monument.
  • Visitors also love Romkerhall Waterfall, an artificial waterfall. This waterfall is notable for its height, reaching up to 64 meters, and is located near an inn.
  • Bad Harzburg is known for both natural and artificial waterfalls, as well as cascades along river trails. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from prominent drops to more leisurely cascades.
  • The waterfalls around Bad Harzburg are appreciated by the komoot community. More than 7000 upvotes and over 800 photos have been shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Lower Ilse Falls

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The Ilsetal is always worth a trip, regardless of the season.

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Nature lovers should definitely prefer the hiking trail along the Ilse to the gravel road. The stony path is easy to walk when the brook splashes, surrounded by trees and rocks.

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Upper Ilse Falls

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The Ilse Falls plunge leisurely over a distance of one kilometer about 120 meters into the beautiful Ilsetal. The roaring Ilse can be heard from afar. The picturesque river has already inspired Heinrich Heine, who actually writes everything about it in his Harzreise:

"It is indescribable how cheerfully, naively and gracefully the Ilse tumbles down over the adventurously formed pieces of rock, so that the water hisses wildly up here and then scuttles over the small stones again like a lively girl. Yes, Ilse is a princess who runs down the mountain laughing and blooming.”

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Probably the most beautiful way to the Brocken. The Ilsetal is always worth a trip, even if it doesn't go all the way to the top.

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Romkerhall Waterfall

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Impressive is the waterfall when enough precipitation has fallen.

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Tips from the Community

MᗩᖇIOᑎ 🌳
October 5, 2023, Untere Ilse Fälle

The water of the wild Ilse flows loudly down the valley over a multitude of small and large cascade-like natural waterfalls. Over the millennia, nature has created a truly impressive, interconnected attraction of rock and water. You can always discover beautiful views and enjoy nature at various rest areas.

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Marius
January 25, 2023, Obere Ilsefälle

The Ilse Falls plunge leisurely over a distance of one kilometer about 120 meters into the beautiful Ilsetal. The roaring Ilse can be heard from afar. The picturesque river has already inspired Heinrich Heine, who actually writes everything about it in his Harzreise: "It is indescribable how cheerfully, naively and gracefully the Ilse tumbles down over the adventurously formed pieces of rock, so that the water hisses wildly up here and then scuttles over the small stones again like a lively girl. Yes, Ilse is a princess who runs down the mountain laughing and blooming.”

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Very nice path along the Ilse. The better alternative to the forest road.

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Here you are in the smallest kingdom in the world.

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By far the greenest and most refreshing way to the Brocken!

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Nils
June 29, 2021, Untere Ilse Fälle

Definitely worth the hike !! But sturdy shoes are advisable 😊 it's great fun to be there !!

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Alwin
April 23, 2021, Obere Ilsefälle

You could listen to the sound of the Ilse for hours, one of the most beautiful hikes you can do.

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A picturesque way to Brocken along the Ilse.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some notable waterfalls to visit around Bad Harzburg?

The region features several impressive waterfalls. You can explore the natural cascades of the Lower Ilse Falls and Upper Ilse Falls in the scenic Ilsetal, or visit the striking artificial Romkerhall Waterfall, known for its considerable height.

Are there family-friendly waterfalls or trails in the Bad Harzburg area?

Yes, the Lower Ilse Falls are categorized as family-friendly, offering an enjoyable experience for all ages. The Ilsetal, where these falls are located, is a picturesque destination suitable for family outings. The Radau Waterfall is also easily accessible and a popular starting point for hikes.

What kind of hiking trails can I find near the waterfalls?

You'll find a variety of trails. The Ilsetal, home to the Ilse Falls, offers beautiful hiking paths like the Heinrich Heine Trail, which follows the river. The Radau Waterfall is also a popular starting point for longer hikes, such as the route to the Eckertalsperre dam. Many trails are considered intermediate, but easy hikes are also available in the broader Bad Harzburg area.

When is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Bad Harzburg?

The Ilsetal, where the Ilse Falls are located, is considered a worthwhile destination year-round. While waterfalls are often most impressive after heavy rainfall or during spring snowmelt, the natural beauty of the Harz region makes a visit enjoyable in any season.

Is parking available near the main waterfalls?

Yes, parking is available near some of the waterfalls. The Radau Waterfall, for instance, is easily accessible with roadside parking. The Romkerhall Waterfall also has parking facilities nearby.

Can I find places to eat or drink near the waterfalls?

Yes, you can. Next to the Radau Waterfall, there is a forest restaurant offering traditional Harz cuisine with a view of the cascading water. The Romkerhall Waterfall is located near an inn where you can eat.

What makes the Ilse Falls special?

The Ilse Falls are a series of natural cascades in the Ilsetal, where the Ilse river tumbles over rock formations, descending about 120 meters over a kilometer. Poet Heinrich Heine famously described the Ilse as a 'princess who runs down the mountain laughing and blooming' due to its cheerful flow. The area also features a Heinrich Heine monument.

Are dogs allowed on the trails near the waterfalls?

Many trails in the Harz region are dog-friendly. For example, the Lower Ilse Falls are noted as a place where 'four-legged friends are looking forward to a little refreshment.' Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash, especially within the Harz National Park regulations.

What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls?

Beyond waterfall viewing, the Bad Harzburg area offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, such as those around the Elfenstein Viewpoint, or more challenging mountain hikes like those leading to the Brocken Summit. There are also options for gravel biking.

What is the historical significance of the Radau Waterfall?

The Radau Waterfall, an impressive 22-23 meter high artificial waterfall, was inaugurated in 1859. Its creation was spearheaded by the Herzoglich-Braunschweigische Eisenbahngesellschaft to boost tourism in the region, a goal it continues to achieve today. It's easily accessible and features a hiking trail alongside its diversion canal.

What is the difficulty of the trails in the Ilse Valley?

The trails in the Ilse Valley, including the Heinrich Heine Trail, are generally considered intermediate. While the path along the Ilse is described as stony, it's easy to walk, offering a picturesque experience with the brook splashing and surrounded by trees and rocks.

Are there any viewpoints near the waterfalls?

Yes, many of the waterfalls themselves are considered viewpoints. The Lower Ilse Falls, Upper Ilse Falls, and Romkerhall Waterfall are all highlighted as scenic viewpoints where you can admire the cascades and surrounding nature.

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