Urwaldsteig

68 km lots of elevation gain ;-) found on Wanderkompass ideal for tough mountain bikers

Pure nature and adventure on the Urwaldsteig

Breathtaking views, a unique combination of forest and lake landscape, as well as steep cliffs – all this is offered by the 68-kilometer-long Urwaldsteig at the Edersee lake in the Waldeck-Frankenberg district in northern Hesse. Located in one of the last European primeval forests, the long-distance hiking trail lives up to its name: old, gnarly oak stands and enchanting beech forests transport the hiker to a bygone era. Thanks to the natural state, some paths are overgrown with roots or the hiker encounters a broken tree right on the trail. But it is precisely these aspects that give the long-distance trail its charm and rightfully earn its name.

The entry to the Urwaldsteig, since it is a circular route, is possible at any point; however, it is recommended to start at Waldeck Castle in the northeast of the route. This place is worth a detour due to its location alone, even if starting elsewhere, and along the way, various sights and views unfold. A short distance from Waldeck, the hiker finds the Krüppelwald with its many mosses. A fascinating view of the 12-square-kilometer Edersee and the adjacent Kellerwald-Edersee Nature Park can be enjoyed from the Kahle Haardt nature reserve. Along narrow paths and past deep valleys, one can also visit a medieval fortification, numerous forests, and old city walls around the lake. The often natural paths offer a special experience, and especially in autumn, the colorful forests promise even more impressive views of the Edersee and its surroundings.

In addition to the 68-kilometer main path of the Urwaldsteig, there are numerous extension options and additional shorter circular paths. Thus, hiking with a dog or the whole family on the long-distance trail is no problem. The entire trail can be covered in just under a week. Divided into six stages, each day new exciting sections can be experienced and hiked: whether the wildlife park at Hammerberg, which is also great fun for children, the Kanzel (pulpit) in the east of the route with its magnificent view of the Edersee and Waldeck Castle, or the Ederufer nature reserve, which is considered a paradise for waterfowl.

Thanks to the low elevation differences and many alternative routes or hiking options on the wider bike path, the Urwaldsteig at Edersee is suitable for casual hikers, but professionals and experienced hikers also get their money's worth: over narrow paths, narrow bridges, and along steep gorges, the long-distance trail leads around Germany's second-largest reservoir. With its natural diversity and the abundance of tree species, the Urwaldsteig is definitely worth a hiking vacation!