A unique landscape awaits you in the Southern Harz: dense, green mixed forests alternate with karst terrain. Hiking in this natural setting means unwinding, finding peace, and taking a deep breath.
Short and long distances, narrow and well-maintained hiking trails, challenging and easier routes—both beginners and experienced hikers will find suitable hiking tours. Even Nordic walking enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite sport on designated trails around Walkenried.
Follow the routes to exciting destinations. At these special locations, you’ll usually also find stamp stations for the Harz Hiking Badge, the region’s popular hiking badge. Join in on the fun stamp hunt—you’ll find all the information here.
Of course, hiking also involves stopping for a break. Cozy local restaurants invite you to enjoy a delicious meal to recharge during your hikes.
Find Your Favorite Route
Hiking Trails
Nordic-Walking-Tours
Harz Hiking Badge
Karst: A Natural Phenomenon
Hardly any other region in Germany is as characterized by karst rock as the Southern Harz. Gleaming white, it crisscrosses the landscape. The less visible karst features are no less fascinating. The leaching of limestone and gypsum made the rock brittle and led to the formation of underground watercourses, disappearing streams, sinkholes, and caves in the Southern Harz.
You can learn all about this fascinating natural phenomenon in the permanent exhibition “Gypsum—More Than Just White Powder” in Walkenried.
This is your first time visiting the Southern Harz, and you’re looking for some tips on planning your route? Feel free to visit us at the Tourist Information Office in Walkenried. Our on-site hiking experts will work with you to find customized tours for every fitness level.
For those who like a faster pace—explore the Southern Harz by bike
Throughout the Walkenried area, you’ll find numerous cycling and mountain biking routes — ranging from challenging to moderate, there’s something for every cycling enthusiast in this diverse selection.