4.5
(10392)
36,610
hikers
36
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Alter Stolberg traverse a wooded karst plateau in the South Harz region of Central Germany. This area is characterized by soluble bedrock, creating distinctive geological formations such as dolines and gypsum caves. The landscape features a heavily forested ridge, part of the South Harz Zechstein Belt, with elevations reaching up to 357.7 meters at Königskopf. A significant portion of the region is designated as a nature reserve, preserving its natural features.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
3.9
(24)
68
hikers
9.11km
02:31
160m
160m
Explore the unique karst landscape of the Southern Harz Nature Park on this moderate 5.7-mile hike, featuring the Heimkehle Show Cave.
4.5
(199)
813
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(15)
68
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(19)
70
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(17)
44
hikers
6.79km
01:55
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Alter Stolberg
Beautiful and well-maintained rest area.
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The boundary stones are plentiful here, and the beautiful hiking trails will take you to them.
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Sinkholes are funnel-shaped depressions or hollows in the landscape and can be up to 300 meters deep.
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A lovely playground 🌞😎 for letting off steam. The children can play while the parents enjoy refreshments in the adjacent beer garden 🍺☕️🍰. Beforehand, you can visit the "Heimkehle Karst Show Cave" or take a short hike. (https://gemeinde-suedharz.de/schauhoehle-heimkehle/) Stamp station 214 of the Harz Hiking Trail 🎒🥾🌞😎 is also not far from the playground. There is ample parking available. Parking costs 50 cents per hour or 4 euros for the whole day.
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mega nice playground
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Beautiful old boundary stone by the wayside.
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It is very beautiful there
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There are 36 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations around Alter Stolberg, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels.
The trails primarily traverse a unique wooded karst plateau, part of the South Harz Zechstein Belt. You'll encounter distinctive geological features like sinkholes and caves, with elevations reaching up to 357.7 meters at the Königskopf. The landscape is heavily forested, offering varied paths through gypsum and limestone formations.
Yes, Alter Stolberg offers 19 easy routes accessible by bus. A great option is the short Heimkehle Welcome Playground – Reesberg Sinkhole loop, which is only 1.5 km long and takes you to the impressive Reesberg Sinkhole (HWN 214).
Many trails lead to significant natural features. You can explore the unique karst landscape and visit the Heimkehle Show Cave, one of Germany's only two public gypsum show caves. The Reesberg Sinkhole (HWN 214) and the beautiful Forest Stairway leading to it are also popular natural monuments.
Absolutely. Near the Reesberg, you can find the ruins of Grasburg, a medieval refuge castle. Many routes also pass by historic boundary stones, such as the Historic boundary stone with Saxon steed.
Yes, many trails in Alter Stolberg are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas, and be mindful of local regulations.
Alter Stolberg is beautiful year-round. Early spring is particularly enchanting when wild garlic blooms along the Forest Stairway to the Reesberg Doline. The wooded trails offer pleasant shade in summer, and autumn brings vibrant colors. Winter hikes are also possible, but check trail conditions for ice or snow.
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. The Heimkehle and Alter Stolberg Loop is a moderate 9.1 km hike that allows you to explore the karst landscape and the Heimkehle Show Cave, returning to your starting point.
Yes, you can find amenities like the Zur Höhle Inn at Heimkehle and the Heimkehle Information Centre and Shop, which are often located near popular trailheads and bus stops, especially around the Heimkehle area.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 9,500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique karst landscape, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of trails from public transport, making it easy to explore the region's natural and historical highlights.
For those seeking a challenge, Alter Stolberg offers 4 difficult routes. The Old Boundary Stone with Lion – Kalkhütte Restaurant & Hotel loop is a demanding 17.7 km hike with significant elevation changes, providing a strenuous but rewarding experience.


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