The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
4.5
(49228)
168,740
hikers
2,518
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis traverse a diverse landscape in western Germany, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and varied topography. The region features extensive forest areas like Homert Nature Park and picturesque river landscapes along the Ruhr. Several lakes and reservoirs, such as Lake Kemnade and Glörtalsperre, also offer scenic paths suitable for families. This varied terrain provides a range of hiking experiences, from easy walks to more moderate trails.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
- The…
Last updated: October 3, 2026
4.6
(420)
1,196
hikers
13.5km
03:48
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(237)
660
hikers
5.59km
01:34
110m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(1575)
4,189
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(1289)
3,607
hikers
12.3km
03:19
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(144)
418
hikers
9.87km
02:46
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
🎨🖌📸The Helenenturm is a well-maintained, noteworthy 30-meter-high observation tower in Witten, built in 1858. Since 1909, the tower has been owned by the city of Witten. In 1985, it was placed under monument protection🎨🖌. The Helenenturm can only be visited as part of guided tours. Visits can be booked at the Tourist & Ticket Service at Rathausplatz in person, by phone at 02302-19433📞 or by email inquiry: https://stadtmarketing-witten.de/entdecken-erleben/ausflugsziele/helenenturm
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The stream is crossed at a built-up spot with unsightly large pipes. On the other side, a really beautiful and imposing tree grows.
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A coal mine that was not registered in the post-war period.
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Attractively designed tower. It would be nice if someone would open a restaurant in the small neighboring building.
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Landmark and milestone on the 3 Towers Trail.
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https://www.ruhrgebiet-industriekultur.de/muttental This mining hiking trail was designed between 1972 and 1977
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In 1783, the two brothers Henrich Johann and Henrich Oberste Frielinghaus mined a coal bank that stretched from the Muttenbach eastwards beneath the Dickenberg in the Muttental. The mining area, which had been expanded to include another seam, was granted the name Jupiter in 1789. A mining tunnel was driven into the mountain, through which the two seams Jupiter 1 and 2 were mined. However, this operation was also suspended for a long time because the transport route to the Ruhr was too complicated. But after the Fortuna tunnel resumed operations in 1830, the two mines were connected by a crosscut. The Jupiter 1 mine sunk the Juno shaft in 1847. At first, the coal was mined in the 20 meter deep shaft using a hand winch. The Juno shaft was sunk a further 21 meters to the St. Johannes Erbstollen floor in 1856. A horse-drawn sledgehammer was also built on the shaft. The sledgehammer shaft was in use for many years and was the last of its kind in this area until it was temporarily closed in 1887. Many years later, the small Jupiter mine operated gleaning mining at various locations in the Muttental. Its first mining site in May 1934 was east of the Muttenbach. The entrepreneur Georg Horst had coal residues mined there, which he transported to the surrounding area and sold. The mine was put back into operation on January 1, 1954. A ton-long shaft was available for mining; this was about 60 meters deep and reached into the Finefrau seam. The shaft was equipped with a new wooden frame. Mining also took place in the Renate mine shaft for a time. In the same year, 68 miners mined 11,151 tons of hard coal. On July 11, 1955, a mining accident occurred at the mine, after which the Jupiter II mine was closed down. The relics from the gleaning mining are still there and can be visited at any time. The remains of the coal loading station shown here consist of a cable winch, a rotary tipper and the tunnel entrance of the old Jupiter mine. It was restored in 1979 and is now station 10 on the mining hiking trail. Source and link to the full article: https://www.kdwupper.de/wiege_des_bergbaus_muttental.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis region offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 1600 easy routes, making it simple to choose an adventure that suits your family's pace and preferences.
What makes the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis region ideal for family hikes?
The region boasts a diverse landscape with rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque river valleys, providing varied and engaging experiences for all ages. Many trails are well-maintained and offer gentle gradients, perfect for families. The combination of natural beauty and historical towns like Hattingen makes it a truly appealing destination.
When is the best time of year for family hikes in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
Spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant seasons for family hikes in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis. The weather is mild, and nature is at its most vibrant, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer also offers great opportunities, especially around lakes and shaded forest paths.
Are there any pram-friendly or easy trails suitable for toddlers?
Yes, many trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis are suitable for prams and toddlers. For example, sections of the Bergbauwanderweg Muttental M2 offer relatively flat and well-maintained paths, perfect for a leisurely family stroll. The paths around Lake Kemnade are also paved and very accessible.
Are there family-friendly circular routes available?
Absolutely! Circular routes are a great way to explore without retracing your steps. The Felderbachtal Nature Reserve loop is a wonderful option, offering beautiful scenery in a natural setting. Many trails around reservoirs like Glörtalsperre also feature easy-to-follow loops.
What interesting sights or landmarks can families discover along the trails?
Families can explore a variety of fascinating sights. You might encounter historic industrial monuments, charming old towns, or natural wonders. Highlights include the Ruhr Waterfalls at Hattingen, the scenic Lake Kemnade, and the Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen, which offers a flat route suitable for families.
Can we visit castles or historic sites during our family hike?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can combine your hike with a visit to impressive historical sites. Consider exploring the Hardenstein Castle Ruins or the picturesque Blankenstein Castle. These sites often have trails leading to or around them, offering a blend of nature and culture.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls or lakes?
Definitely! The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is home to beautiful water features. The Ruhr Waterfalls at Hattingen are a scenic spot to enjoy rushing water. For lakes, the popular Lake Kemnade offers lovely views and accessible paths, and the Hasper Dam also provides a pleasant loop around its reservoir.
Are there hiking routes accessible by public transport?
Many trails in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis are well-connected to public transport networks. For instance, the Muttenbach Trail starts near Witten Hbf, making it convenient to reach by train. It's always a good idea to check local transport schedules for specific trailheads.
Is parking generally available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at many popular trailheads and starting points for family hikes throughout the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis. Areas around lakes, nature reserves, and historic towns often have designated parking facilities, though it's advisable to check specific route details for the most accurate information.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
The family-friendly trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 42,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and picturesque scenery, the well-maintained paths suitable for all ages, and the opportunity to combine nature walks with visits to charming towns and historical sites.
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