The best walks and hikes around Clausthal Zellerfeld
4.6
(24777)
89,680
hikers
806
hikes
Hiking trails around Clausthal Zellerfeld are situated within the Harz Mountains, characterized by dense forests, clear lakes, and varied terrain. The region features the UNESCO World Heritage Oberharzer Wasserregal, an intricate network of historical water management systems including ditches, ponds, and streams. Moorland areas, such as the Großes Torfhausmoor, and the Ilse River with its waterfalls, contribute to the diverse natural landscape. This area offers a wide range of terrains, from natural paths to gravel forest roads.
Best hiking trails…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
4.8
(4021)
15,049
hikers
17.5km
04:55
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(702)
2,742
hikers
6.07km
01:38
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(957)
3,206
hikers
11.4km
03:06
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(496)
1,555
hikers
17.0km
04:44
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(444)
1,505
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
We visited on a sunny and snowy winter day in January. Even (or perhaps especially) with everything covered in a thick blanket of snow, it was an absolutely beautiful scene. The Oderteich pond was easily accessible via the large parking lot located across the road. The paths around the Oderteich were quite narrow on this winter day, which made things a bit tight at times with two dogs, especially when encountering oncoming traffic. But somehow, we always managed to make it work. :) Oh, and the name "Oderteich" shouldn't be taken too literally; the path around it is almost 5 km long. :)
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You have to plan for 1.5 hours
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The church was built in ten months from 1907 to 1908. Its model was the much older stave churches of Norway. Prof. Karl Mohrmann, consistorial master builder of the Hanoverian regional church, drew inspiration from Nordic churches, but adapted the size and design to the needs of the congregation. Thus, the Hahnenklee Stave Church, with its 240 seats, is larger than its Norwegian counterparts, and the relatively large windows allow plenty of light into the interior. The local craftsmen used spruce wood from the surrounding area as building material, which also made construction more cost-effective than the originally planned neo-Gothic brick structure. Many elements of the architectural style are reminiscent of shipbuilding, even somewhat of Viking ships with their numerous dragons on the roof and in the decorations. The chandelier is modeled after a ship's wheel.
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All critics of the national park should take a look at this piece of forest. A near-natural forest has developed here in 30 years without human intervention.
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A beautiful spot! The water—deep blue from a distance, purple to amber up close. There are two swimming areas. A must-do walk! Root paths, streams, moorland, and wooden walkways. A very varied route.
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Very nice path always along the ditch
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Swimming: It is generally possible to swim in the Upper Spiegeltal Pond. However, the shoreline is almost entirely densely overgrown, making it difficult to even reach the water in many places. Anyone wishing to swim here does so at their own risk, and the risks associated with the remote location should also be considered. Fishing: With the appropriate permit, fishing is permitted in the Upper Spiegeltal Pond. The water is primarily populated by brown trout. The pond is included in the "Upper Harz Ponds Fishing Map." If interested, please contact Harzwasserwerke, the owner and operator of this historic facility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Clausthal-Zellerfeld offers a vast network of over 800 hiking trails. These routes cater to all abilities, with a significant number of easy walks, alongside moderate and some more challenging options.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while hiking?
The region is characterized by the dense forests of the Harz Mountains and the Harz National Park. You'll encounter the unique UNESCO World Heritage Oberharzer Wasserregal, an intricate system of historical water management with numerous ponds and ditches. Moorland areas like the Großes Torfhausmoor, clear mountain streams, and picturesque waterfalls such as the Upper Ilse Falls also define the diverse scenery.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Yes, Clausthal-Zellerfeld has several family-friendly options. The region offers many easy trails with gentle gradients, perfect for families. For example, the route Around the Großes Torfhausmoor is an easy 6.1 km path exploring unique moorland landscapes. The Oker Valley Nature Experience Trail is also known for its interactive stations, making it engaging for children.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
The hiking trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 23,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-marked network, the diverse terrain, and the stunning natural beauty, especially the historical water management system and the tranquil forest paths.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are many excellent circular hiking routes in Clausthal-Zellerfeld. A popular choice is the Oderteich | Reservoir – Oderteich loop from Torfhaus, which is an 11.4 km trail that takes you through parts of the historic Oberharzer Wasserregal.
Are there any trails that lead to significant viewpoints or peaks?
Absolutely. The Harz Mountains offer several prominent peaks and viewpoints. You can hike towards the highest peak, Brocken, via routes like On the Goetheweg to Brocken. Other notable viewpoints include Raven Crag and Ilsestein (HWN 030), offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Clausthal-Zellerfeld offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings a colorful array of flowers, while autumn transforms the landscape into a 'sea of warm colors,' making both seasons particularly scenic. The varied terrain and well-maintained paths are enjoyable in different conditions, though specific trail conditions may vary with snow or heavy rain.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions to explore along the trails?
The region is rich in history. The Oberharzer Wasserregal itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with trails following its ancient ditches and ponds. You can also find historical sites like the Ruins of the Great Harzburg Castle or the Imperial Palace of Goslar (Kaiserpfalz Goslar) within reach, offering insights into the area's past.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Yes, Clausthal-Zellerfeld is a convenient stop along the famous Harzer Hexenstieg (Harz Witches' Trail), a well-known long-distance hiking trail. This makes the area an excellent base for multi-day adventures or for exploring sections of this iconic route.
Are there dog-friendly hiking trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Many trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld are suitable for hiking with dogs, especially the extensive network of forest roads and natural paths. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly within the Harz National Park, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails?
The terrain in Clausthal-Zellerfeld is quite varied, ranging from natural paths and gravel forest roads suitable for easier walks to more challenging steep and rooted trails. This diversity ensures that hikers of all fitness levels can find suitable routes.
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