4.6
(6620)
28,068
hikers
949
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Grenzdyck traverse a landscape shaped by ancient Rhine floodplains, featuring extensively managed wet meadows and the "Hees" forest. The region is located in the Lower Rhine area, between Alpen, Sonsbeck, and Xanten. Notable natural features include the Märchensee, also known as Drusus Spring, and the Philosopheninsel, both offering serene environments.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.8
(25)
98
hikers
5.11km
01:21
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
40
hikers
3.75km
01:01
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.9
(18)
82
hikers
5.78km
01:34
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
4.62km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This is the Air Force Ammunition Depot 2/VI (short for "Muna"). It was a large armament facility of the German Air Force, built from 1939 in the forest area of Xantener Hees (south of Birten) and was in operation until 1944.
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The pond is located directly on the Philosophenweg.
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The terms Hohlweg and Heesweg in Xanten belong together and form a popular hiking trail through the forest area "Die Hees" in the Xanten district of Birten/Obermörmter. They are a central part of the regional nature experiences.
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Beautiful fen in the middle of the forest.
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You see these bunkers everywhere in the forest.
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A beautiful ravine on the Heesberg, which is also really fun on a gravel bike. There are also a few meters of elevation gain to be gained 💪😀
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The Heeswald is very nice to hike on, but you should take the warning signs and prohibitions seriously and stay on the paths. There used to be an air force ammunition facility (MUNA) on the site from the National Socialist era and there are still dangerous ammunition residues in the ground. In addition, the entrances to the former ammunition and detonator stores, which are often incorrectly referred to as "bunkers", are comparatively weak and often in danger of collapsing. Entering it would be life-threatening.
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Grenzdyck offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 680 routes suitable for a relaxed outdoor experience.
You'll encounter diverse landscapes shaped by ancient Rhine floodplains, including extensively managed wet meadows and the "Hees" forest. Notable natural features include the Märchensee (Drusus Spring), known for its changing colors, and the serene Philosophers' Island.
Yes, many easy trails in Grenzdyck are circular. For example, the Philosophers' Island loop from Grenzdyck is an easy 2.3-mile (3.8 km) path that explores the Philosopheninsel.
Easy hikes in Grenzdyck typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km) and can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours. For instance, the Liebensplüte Bench – Philosophers' Island loop from Vetera Castra is 3.2 miles (5.1 km) and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.
The komoot community highly rates Grenzdyck's trails, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful forest paths, the unique natural features like the Märchensee, and the well-maintained routes suitable for all skill levels.
While many easy trails offer pleasant forest and meadow views, the Heeswald Forest – View of Xanten Cathedral loop from Grenzdyck provides glimpses of Xanten Cathedral. For more expansive views, the Op den Hövel Climb via Höltkessteg offers panoramic vistas, though it's a slightly more challenging ascent.
Yes, Grenzdyck is very family-friendly. The easy terrain, varied natural features like the Philosophers' Island, and manageable distances make it ideal for families with children. Many routes are through forests, offering shade and interesting discoveries.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails in Grenzdyck. However, as parts of the area are a nature reserve, it's advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and plants, especially in the wet meadows.
Grenzdyck is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant flora to the wet meadows, summer offers shaded forest walks, and autumn transforms the Philosophers' Island and Märchensee with rich colors. Even in winter, the easy, mostly flat paths are accessible for a refreshing walk.
Yes, parking is generally available at common starting points for trails in Grenzdyck, particularly near the villages of Alpen, Sonsbeck, and Xanten which border the region. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions.
While Grenzdyck is primarily accessed by car, some starting points for trails may be reachable via local bus services from nearby towns like Alpen, Sonsbeck, or Xanten. It's recommended to check local public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Beyond the trails, you can explore the Philosophers' Island and the Märchensee (Drusus Spring), both unique natural spots. The nearby "Hees" forest also offers a tranquil environment for further exploration.


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