4.2
(311)
21,637
runners
818
runs
Jogging in Lanklaarderbos offers diverse landscapes, from varied forest types including pine and birch, to open heathland areas. The region is situated on the steep edge of the Kempen plateau, providing panoramic views that often include the terrils of Eisden. Water features, such as routes around a lake and a pontoon bridge, add to the scenic variety. This combination of natural and unique man-made features creates a dynamic environment for running.
Last updated: July 15, 2026
4.0
(3)
70
runners
21.6km
02:27
210m
210m
Jogging the Man-made mining landscapes (long) - Limburg offers a difficult 13.4-mile route through transformed industrial terrain with panor
36
runners
11.1km
01:16
110m
110m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(10)
946
runners
13.4km
01:32
140m
140m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
213
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
121
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Connecterra is the main gateway to Hoge Kempen National Park. This unique area is located on the former mining site of Eisden, bordering Dilsen-Stokkem. A quarter of a century ago, the mine was still operating at full capacity; now it is a true nature paradise. There are big plans for this area in the making for the coming years, respecting both nature and cultural heritage. The hiking area has been developed and the routes offer some of the most beautiful panoramas in Flanders, with a breathtaking scenery of mountains and lakes. In total, five routes will lead you through the area. The hiking area connects to the 'Mechelse Heide' and 'Station As' walking paths. In the new visitor center, you will find information about the national park and can relax with a drink in the tearoom. Outside, children can have fun in the playground. The spiral tower is accessible up to the first floor and offers a glimpse of what Connecterra has to offer.
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Cycling between the terraces, also known as cycling over water, is a cycling project that opened to the public in September 2024. It is a pontoon cycle/footpath across the Große Plas (Great Pond) between the waste heaps at resort Terhills. It is a new addition to the series of special cycling projects previously realised in the cycling paradise of Limburg (such as cycling through the water (Domain Bokrijk), cycling through the heathlands (north of Zutendaal), and cycling through the forests (Bosland National Park)).
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Wooden climb in the forest...
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The coal mining past lives on...
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Keienstrand lies on the shore of a clear lake in the Hoge Kempen National Park. This spot has a primal quality: large, rounded stones lie scattered along the water's edge, the wind gently blowing across the surface. It's a place that invites peace and reflection… where you can sit for a moment, listening to the lapping of the water and observing the play of light and shadow on the stones. The stones are a reminder of the geological history of this landscape, shaped by gravel extraction and nature restoration. Now, Keienstrand is a haven for both people and animals: dragonflies buzz above the water, birds skim low over the shore, and the scent of pine fills the air.
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The two winding towers commemorate the history of coal mining. In less than a decade, the history of coal mining in the Hoge Kempen region drastically changed the landscape. The last coal mine (Eisden) closed in 1901. In those 1989 years, the landscape transformed from a "rural" landscape of mainly heathland, moors, and dunes to an "industrial" landscape with winding towers, slag heaps, pine forests for timber harvesting, and quarries for raw materials.
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In the Mechelse Heide, a high wooden bench offers visitors an elevated view of the gravel pit and the surrounding nature reserve. From this vantage point, you can peacefully observe the water feature, the surrounding heathlands, and the forest, while spotting birds and other animals in their natural habitat. The high bench is an ideal resting spot during walks and offers a beautiful panorama for nature lovers and photographers, making it a popular stop along the hiking trails.
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Lanklaarderbos offers a vast network of over 640 running routes. This includes a variety of options, with approximately 70 easy routes, nearly 500 moderate trails, and 75 more challenging paths, ensuring there's something for every runner.
You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from easily accessible, mostly paved paths suitable for all fitness levels to more challenging sections with significant ascents. The landscape includes varied forest types like pine and birch, open heathland, and paths along the steep edge of the Kempen plateau, offering a dynamic and visually engaging experience.
Yes, Lanklaarderbos has around 70 easy running routes. These paths are generally well-maintained and accessible, making them perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog through the beautiful natural surroundings.
Absolutely. Due to its location on the edge of the Kempen plateau, Lanklaarderbos offers numerous panoramic views. Many routes provide vistas of the terrils of Eisden (Terhills - Connecterra) and the Eisden garden district. For example, the route View of Terhills Lake – View from Tweelingterril loop from Eisden offers excellent lake and terril views.
Runners can enjoy diverse landscapes including pine and birch forests, open heathland, and unique man-made features. Notable landmarks include the terrils (mining spoil heaps) which offer challenging climbs and views, and routes around a scenic lake. Don't miss the Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen, which provides a beautiful 360-degree experience over water, or the View of the Terrils from the Lake.
Yes, several routes incorporate water features. You can find paths that lead around and over a lake, offering scenic waterside views. A highlight is the 380-meter pontoon bridge, which gracefully winds between the mine terrils and over the water, providing a unique experience with shimmering water views.
Yes, the area is known for its extensive network of signposted walking loops and trails. This makes navigation straightforward, allowing you to focus on your run and the beautiful scenery.
Lanklaarderbos is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for running with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other visitors, and to check specific trail regulations within the Hoge Kempen National Park.
The running routes in Lanklaarderbos are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 200 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from varied forests to open heathland, the panoramic views from the Kempen plateau, and the unique terrils. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging ascents, making it a favorite for many.
Yes, for those seeking a more intense workout, Lanklaarderbos offers challenging routes with significant elevation. The region lies on the steep edge of the Kempen plateau, and some sections, particularly around the terrils, feature steep grades reaching close to 10%. An example of a more difficult route is View of the Grote Plas – View from Tweelingterril loop from Eisden, which includes over 270 meters of elevation gain.
Yes, Lanklaarderbos features many circular running routes, perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes without retracing your steps. These loops often take you through forests, heathland, and past scenic viewpoints. An example is the National Park Trail: Mechelse Heide and Terhills Loop, which offers varied terrain in a circular format.
Yes, the region's unique landscape is heavily influenced by its mining past. Routes like Man-made mining landscapes (brief) - Limburg specifically explore these distinctive areas, allowing runners to experience the terrils and other features shaped by historical mining activities. You can also see the Old Mine Entrance (Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen) along some trails.


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