WaldWandelWeg: A Walk Through the Harz Forest's Future
Discover the Harz National Park's WaldWandelWeg: Witness the forest's transformation and learn about nature's resilience on this educational and accessible trail near Torfhaus.
The WaldWandelWeg, near Torfhaus in the Harz National Park, offers a short but insightful journey into the evolving forest landscape. This 180-meter path showcases the transformation of managed forests into natural, structurally rich woodlands. Information panels explain how windthrow, insect infestation, and natural tree mortality contribute to a new, near-natural forest. Visitors witness the dynamic forces of nature and the emergence of biodiversity. The path is easily accessible from the Torfhaus National Park Visitor Center, making it a convenient and educational experience for all ages. While the path itself isn't suitable for strollers, they can be left at the entrance. Discover how the Harz forest is adapting and renewing itself, offering a glimpse into the future of woodland ecosystems. It's a great way to understand the natural processes at play in the park.
A brief summary to WaldWandelWeg
- Nationalpark Harz, Bad Harzburg, 38667, DE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a trip to the National Park Visitor Center Torfhaus for a deeper understanding of the Harz ecosystem.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places.
- Consider hiking the 'Rund um das Große Torfhausmoor' trail for a longer exploration of the area's diverse landscapes.
Getting There
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Walking
The WaldWandelWeg is easily accessible by foot from the Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus. From the visitor center, follow the signs for approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 20-30 minutes). The path is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Alternatively, take the Schubensteinweg, which starts directly behind the visitor center. There are no costs associated with walking to the WaldWandelWeg.
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Public Transport
Take Bus 820 from Bad Harzburg to the Torfhaus Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum stop. From there, follow the walking directions (approximately 1.5 kilometers) to the WaldWandelWeg. A single bus fare from Bad Harzburg to Torfhaus costs approximately €4-€6. Check the current bus schedule for accurate times.
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Driving
Drive to the Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum Torfhaus. Parking is available at the 'Brockenblick' parking lot, which is subject to a fee. From there, follow the walking directions (approximately 1.5 kilometers) to the WaldWandelWeg. Parking costs approximately €5 per day.
Discover more about WaldWandelWeg
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
1.1 km
Discover the Harz National Park: Explore interactive exhibits, hike scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the wilderness from the TorfHaus Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure.
Wolfswarte
3.7 km
Discover panoramic views and a rich history at the Wolfswarte, a captivating quartzite rock formation in the heart of the Harz Mountains, perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Brocken
4.3 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.
Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Urwaldstieg
6.3 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
6.7 km
Experience the Harz National Park's rugged beauty on the Eckerlochstieg, a challenging hiking trail to the Brocken summit offering stunning views and diverse landscapes.
Alter Grenzweg
6.9 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.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
7.0 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.
Oberer Bodewasserfall
7.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Oberer Bodewasserfall in Braunlage, a stunning natural waterfall that captivates with its serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
7.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Wurmberg-Steinbruch, a birdwatching haven in Braunlage, filled with diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
7.8 km
Observe reintroduced lynx in their natural habitat at the Luchsgehege near Rabenklippe, offering stunning views and hiking trails in the Harz National Park, a unique wildlife experience.
Harz
8.1 km
Explore the mystical Harz Mountains: Hike through ancient forests, discover medieval towns, and uncover legends in Germany's enchanting northern highlands.
Feigenbaumklippe
8.4 km
Discover panoramic views and geological wonders at the Feigenbaumklippe in Bad Harzburg, a captivating granite rock formation in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Verlobungsinsel in der Oker HWN 116
8.9 km
Discover the enchanting Verlobungsinsel in the Oker Valley, a romantic island escape surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility.
Scherstorklippen
9.3 km
Discover the majestic Scherstorklippen, a stunning granite tor formation in the Harz Mountains, offering panoramic views, unique hiking trails, and a glimpse into the region's rich natural history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor
0.4 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor, a tribute to the lynx in the stunning Harz National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Torfhausmoor
0.5 km
Explore Torfhausmoor in Harz National Park, a breathtaking natural escape showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück
2.1 km
Explore Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück, a military cemetery that honors the valor of fallen soldiers amidst serene landscapes, perfect for reflection and remembrance.
Oberharz
2.5 km
Discover the serene natural beauty of Oberharz, a pristine nature preserve in Bad Harzburg, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife observation.
Dreieckiger Pfahl
3.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Dreieckiger Pfahl in the Harz Mountains – a perfect blend of nature and history for every tourist.
Harz National Park
3.3 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife at Harz National Park, Germany's premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
National Park Harz
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at National Park Harz, a natural paradise in Germany perfect for every adventurer.
Soldatenstein
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Soldatenstein in Wernigerode, a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and serene trails through nature's beauty.
Sendeturm Brocken
4.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
Altes Gemäuer
4.3 km
Experience the rich history and stunning natural beauty at Altes Gemäuer, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Harz.
Brockenhaus
4.3 km
Explore Brockenhaus: A captivating visitor center on the Brocken plateau, bridging nature and culture in the heart of Harz National Park.
Kompassscheibe
4.3 km
Explore the Kompassscheibe in Wernigerode: A unique compass rose showcasing navigational history amidst enchanting scenery.
Nordstern
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Nordstern, a stunning tourist attraction in Wernigerode's Harz Mountains, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Oderteich
4.4 km
Immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Oderteich, a highlight of Harz National Park, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Teufelskanzel
4.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich folklore at Teufelskanzel, a stunning viewpoint in the Harz Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
1.1 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
4.3 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Radau-Waterfall
5.6 km
Experience nature's splendor at Radau Waterfall in Bad Harzburg – a stunning cascade surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails.
Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg
6.0 km
Discover exquisite regional cuisine at Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg, your perfect retreat in the scenic Harz mountains.
Klippen - Grill Inh. Matthias Biesel
7.2 km
Discover Klippen - Grill in Altenau for an unforgettable steakhouse experience amidst breathtaking Harz landscapes.
Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe
7.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe, where authentic German cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Bad Harzburg.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
7.8 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
Hexenritt Alm
7.8 km
Discover Hexenritt Alm: A delightful restaurant offering traditional German cuisine and stunning mountain views in Braunlage.
Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus
8.3 km
Experience authentic German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus in the Harz Mountains.
Café am Kurpark
8.5 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
8.6 km
Experience delightful German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Waldgasthaus Plessenburg in the Harz mountains.
Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
8.6 km
Discover the flavors of Braunlage at Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill—where culinary tradition meets modern dining in a stunning setting.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
8.8 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor amidst scenic beauty.
Villa Bodeblick ǀ Hotel & Restaurant
9.1 km
Discover Villa Bodeblick: A charming hotel and restaurant in Wernigerode offering delightful breakfasts and serene accommodations amidst stunning landscapes.
Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
9.1 km
Discover comfort and authentic German cuisine at Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus in Braunlage - your gateway to the scenic beauty of the Harz mountains.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harzturm GmbH
1.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and family-friendly fun at Harzturm GmbH, your destination in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
1.1 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Waldschwimmbad Okerteich
6.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Waldschwimmbad Okerteich, an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by breathtaking nature, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
8.7 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Harzspots GmbH
9.2 km
Explore the Harz Mountains with Harzspots GmbH: Your premier tourist information center in Wernigerode, Germany.
Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
9.2 km
Experience the authentic taste of the Harz region at Puppe’s, a delightful deli and bistro in Braunlage offering local specialties and souvenirs.
Ottos Sport & Tracht
9.2 km
Discover the charm of German traditions at Ottos Sport & Tracht, your go-to destination for authentic costumes and outdoor sports gear in Braunlage.
Harzsneaks
9.3 km
Discover unique styles and local flair at Harzsneaks, the premier clothing store in Braunlage, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
9.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Harz region at Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten, the premier butcher shop in Braunlage, Germany.
Gamaswelt Braunlage
9.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gamaswelt Braunlage, a charming gift shop in the heart of the picturesque town of Braunlage.
Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
9.6 km
Shop sustainably at Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of Braunlage.
KiK Braunlage
10.3 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and home essentials at KiK Braunlage, your go-to destination for affordable shopping in a charming setting.
Outdoor-Concepts.de - Outdoor und Survival
12.4 km
Discover Outdoor-Concepts.de in Bad Harzburg, your one-stop shop for top-notch outdoor gear and expert advice for all your adventures.
Drei Annen Hohne
12.5 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Harz Tourism e. V.
14.3 km
Explore the wonders of the Harz region at Goslar's Tourist Information Center, your gateway to adventures and rich cultural experiences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
6.3 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Altes Backhaus
7.2 km
Discover the authentic German pub experience at Altes Backhaus, a beloved local gem in Altenau, known for its cozy atmosphere and variety of drinks.
Schirmbar Hexenritt
7.8 km
Experience the charm of the mountains at Schirmbar Hexenritt, a cozy bar in Braunlage offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pension Mühlhahn
8.1 km
Discover the charm of Pension Mühlhahn, your cozy guest house in Wernigerode, offering delightful dining and breathtaking views of the Harz mountains.
Bier-Comptoir
8.2 km
Experience the heart of Bad Harzburg at Bier-Comptoir, where local beers and hearty dishes come together in a vibrant gastropub setting.
Bar Milano im San Siro
8.6 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
John's Bar
8.7 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of John's Bar in Braunlage, a perfect retreat after enjoying the breathtaking Harz mountains.
Worchs Terrasse
8.7 km
Discover Worchs Terrasse in Bad Harzburg, a charming bar offering a serene atmosphere, delightful drinks, and stunning views for an unforgettable experience.
Travellers Cafe Bar
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Travellers Cafe Bar in Braunlage, where friendly service and a cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable night.
Blues Pub
8.9 km
Discover the heart of Bad Harzburg's nightlife at Blues Pub, where live music meets a cozy atmosphere and refreshing drinks await.
Baude
8.9 km
Experience the best of traditional German pub culture at Baude in Bad Harzburg, where great food and local brews await.
Wieder da
9.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bad Harzburg at Wieder da, where great drinks, rock music, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Hirschgrund-Biergarten
9.2 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
9.2 km
Discover the charm of Hille-Bille, a cozy gastropub in Braunlage, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await tourists and locals alike.
Hille-Bille Inh.A. Brunnen
9.2 km
Experience the charming atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Hille-Bille Inh.A. Brunnen, a top gastropub in Braunlage, perfect for relaxation after adventure.
