The best running trails around Emmen
4.3
(104)
5,924
runners
561
runs
Jogging around Emmen offers diverse natural landscapes and well-maintained trails suitable for various fitness levels. The region features extensive forests like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos, providing wooded paths for runners. Additionally, Emmen is characterized by heathlands and significant moorland areas, such as the Bargerveen Nature Reserve, which offer expansive views. Picturesque riverbanks and areas around bodies of water, including Rietplas Park, provide pleasant running routes.
Best jogging routes around Emmen
- The most popular jogging route is Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.7
(6)
169
runners
8.82km
00:55
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
149
runners
10.5km
01:08
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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95
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
74
runners
11.8km
01:14
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
74
runners
10.6km
01:05
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
After the peat bog was extracted in the 1960s, the Dutch Forestry Commission began the renaturation of what is now the Bargerveen nature reserve. Today, due to its exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, it enjoys special protection as a European bird sanctuary and an important wetland. You can explore the area on approximately 30 kilometers of hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of the bog from the observation hill and tower, or experience the unique landscape on guided tours and accessible rides on the Veenland Express train.
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The ice of the Saale glaciation brought boulders of all shapes and sizes from Scandinavia to Drenthe. The largest boulder in Drenthe lies along the road from Emmen to Erm in the Noordbargerbos forest. The "Thickest Stien" must weigh at least 55,000 kilos. The Noordbargerbos is a relatively young forest in a beautiful nature reserve.
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A charming drawbridge over the water at the Grote Rietplas, offering a beautiful view of the surrounding nature reserve. This picturesque bridge is perfect for a short stop during a walk, with a view of reed beds, water birds and the calm water.
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In the summer you can enjoy a snack and a drink on the terrace.
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The Firebird is a work of art by the artist Cornelis Huisman, who lives in Belgium. It is located on Sandurdreef in the Parc Sandur district in the Dutch municipality of Emmen. The artwork is inspired by the Russian mythical animal, the firebird.
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Along the road from Emmen to Erm, in the Noordbargerbos, is the largest boulder in Drenthe, called the 'Dikste Stien.' This imposing boulder weighs at least 55,000 kilos. The Noordbargerbos is a relatively young forest located in a beautiful nature reserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Emmen?
Emmen offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 550 trails available. These range from easy jogs to more challenging runs, ensuring options for every fitness level.
What types of terrain can I expect on Emmen's running trails?
Emmen's running trails feature diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to run through lush forests like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos, across scenic heathlands, and alongside expansive moorlands and wetlands, particularly in the Bargerveen Nature Reserve. Many routes also follow picturesque riverbanks and areas around bodies of water, such as Rietplas Park.
Are there running routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy jog?
Yes, Emmen has plenty of options for beginners and those seeking an easier run. Out of over 550 routes, 52 are classified as easy. These often feature mostly paved surfaces and minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for all skill levels.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I discover along Emmen's running routes?
While running in Emmen, you can explore significant natural attractions such as the vast Bargerveen Nature Reserve with its unique moorland views. Other notable features include the tranquil Lake Dankern, and the scenic Vechte River. Many routes also pass through beautiful forested areas like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos.
Are there any circular running routes in Emmen?
Yes, many of Emmen's running routes are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas loop from Zeldenrust is an 8.8 km moderate circular route, and the Forest Path by the Water loop from Emmen Zuid is an 11.8 km loop through forested areas.
What do other runners say about the trails in Emmen?
The running routes in Emmen are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 80 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes, well-maintained trails, and the variety of environments suitable for all fitness levels.
Are there any longer or more challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a greater challenge, Emmen offers 74 difficult routes. An example is the Bargerveen Moorland Route – Bargerveen Nature Reserve loop from Weiteveen, a challenging 16.3 km path that takes you through expansive moorland.
Can I find running routes that go through forests?
Yes, Emmen is known for its extensive forests, providing excellent opportunities for forest runs. Areas like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos offer lush, wooded trails. The Forest Path by the Water loop from Emmen Zuid is a popular 11.8 km route that leads through forested areas alongside water.
Are there running routes near water bodies or riverbanks?
Many pleasant running routes in Emmen are found along picturesque riverbanks and around bodies of water. Rietplas Park is a prime example, offering routes like the Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas loop from Zeldenrust. You can also find trails along the Vechte River.
Are there running routes that offer views of moorlands or wetlands?
Emmen is home to significant moorland and wetland areas, most notably the Bargerveen Nature Reserve. The Bargerveen Nature Reserve – View of the Bargerveen wetlands loop from Bargerveen is a 14.4 km moderate run that provides expansive views over these unique landscapes.
What is a good moderate-difficulty running route in Emmen?
A great moderate-difficulty option is the Oosterbos loop from Klazienaveen-Noord. This 8.6 km route is primarily on paved surfaces and offers a pleasant run suitable for those looking for a balanced challenge.
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