Urwaldstieg: A Glimpse into the Harz's Primeval Forest
Discover the untouched beauty of the Harz National Park on the Urwaldstieg, a short trail through a centuries-old primeval forest near Brocken mountain.
The Urwaldstieg, or Primeval Forest Trail, offers a brief but captivating journey into the heart of the Harz National Park's ancient woodlands. Located near the Brocken mountain, this short path unveils a landscape shaped by centuries of natural processes, untouched by human intervention. Wander through a realm of towering spruces, decaying logs, and vibrant new growth, experiencing the raw beauty and ecological complexity of a true primeval forest. The trail is easily accessible and provides an immersive encounter with the Harz's wild side, making it a worthwhile detour for any nature enthusiast exploring the region. Discover the unique flora and fauna thriving in this protected environment, and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving these precious natural treasures. The Urwaldstieg is a testament to the enduring power and resilience of nature, offering a serene escape from the modern world.
A brief summary to Urwaldstieg
- K1356, Wernigerode, 38879, DE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique beauty of the primeval forest, with its towering trees, decaying logs, and vibrant undergrowth.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the trail can be closed due to severe weather conditions.
- Combine your visit to the Urwaldstieg with a hike to the nearby Brocken mountain for panoramic views of the Harz region.
Getting There
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Walking
The Urwaldstieg is located a short distance from the Brockenstraße, the road between Schierke and the Brocken summit. If you are arriving from Schierke, follow the signs towards the Brocken. The trail is located a few meters above the Brockenbett, branching off the Brockenstraße. Look for signs indicating the Urwaldstieg. From the Brocken summit, descend along the Brockenstraße towards Schierke. The Urwaldstieg will be signposted on your left. Note that the Brockenstraße is closed to public vehicle traffic.
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Public Transport
The Brocken is accessible via the Harzer Schmalspurbahnen (HSB), a narrow-gauge railway. Take the HSB to the Brocken summit station. From there, follow the Brockenstraße downhill towards Schierke. The Urwaldstieg will be signposted on your left, a short walk from the summit. A single ride ticket to the Brocken summit from Wernigerode costs around €33.50. Consider purchasing a day ticket if you plan to explore other parts of the Harz region by train.
Discover more about Urwaldstieg
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Urwaldstieg
0.0 km
Discover the untouched beauty of the Harz National Park on the Urwaldstieg, a short trail through a centuries-old primeval forest near Brocken mountain.
Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Eckerlochstieg
1.9 km
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Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
1.9 km
Hike through an enchanting fairytale in Harz National Park on the Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh, a 5km trail to Brocken's peak, perfect for families seeking adventure and folklore.
Brocken
2.1 km
Ascend to the legendary Brocken, the Harz Mountains' highest peak, and discover breathtaking views, captivating history, and enchanting folklore amidst a unique subalpine landscape.
Alter Grenzweg
3.6 km
Hike a poignant path through history on the Alter Grenzweg near Wernigerode, where the former East-West German border now thrives as a Green Belt.
Harz
4.4 km
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Scherstorklippen
4.5 km
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Ottofelsen
4.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling climbs at Ottofelsen, a granite landmark in the heart of Germany's Harz Mountains, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
5.1 km
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Oberer Bodewasserfall
5.5 km
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Ilsestein
6.9 km
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Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
7.3 km
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Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
8.8 km
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Wolfswarte
9.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Haifischfelsen
1.6 km
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Nationalparkhaus Schierke
1.9 km
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Brocken Garden
1.9 km
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Teufelskanzel
2.0 km
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Nordstern
2.1 km
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Kompassscheibe
2.1 km
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Brockenhaus
2.2 km
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Sendeturm Brocken
2.2 km
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Soldatenstein
2.8 km
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Eulenbrunnen
2.8 km
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Kurpark Schierke
3.1 km
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Brunnen
3.1 km
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Brocken Coaster Thomas mask
3.3 km
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Ferdinandsstein
3.8 km
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Wolfsklippe
3.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
2.2 km
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Café am Kurpark
3.1 km
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Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
3.4 km
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Villa Bodeblick ǀ Hotel & Restaurant
3.5 km
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Montevino Vin'Osteria
3.6 km
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Restaurant Luis
3.7 km
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Hexenritt Schirmbar
4.4 km
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Hexenritt Alm
4.4 km
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Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
5.0 km
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Waldbadschenke
6.1 km
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Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
6.7 km
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Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
7.0 km
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DasVielleicht
7.1 km
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Moni's Hexenhäuschen
7.3 km
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Kleine Auszeit
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
3.1 km
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Harzspots GmbH
3.6 km
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Drei Annen Hohne
6.2 km
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Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
7.2 km
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Harzsneaks
7.2 km
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Ottos Sport & Tracht
7.2 km
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Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
7.4 km
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Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
7.4 km
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Harzturm GmbH
7.4 km
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Gamaswelt Braunlage
7.4 km
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Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
7.5 km
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KiK Braunlage
8.0 km
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Wergona Chocolate GmbH
10.3 km
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Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus
10.4 km
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Altstadt-Passagen
11.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pension Mühlhahn
2.7 km
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Schirmbar Hexenritt
4.4 km
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Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
6.5 km
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Bar Milano im San Siro
6.6 km
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Travellers Cafe Bar
6.7 km
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John's Bar
7.0 km
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Hotel & Restaurant Memory in Braunlage
7.0 km
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Hirschgrund-Biergarten
7.1 km
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Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
7.2 km
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Hille-Bille Inh.A. Brunnen
7.2 km
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Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt
7.2 km
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Zum Harzer Roller
7.3 km
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The VALHALLA Bar
7.3 km
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Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café
7.4 km
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BegebaR
7.5 km
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