Dreieckiger Pfahl: A Historical Landmark in the Harz
Discover the historical Dreieckiger Pfahl in the Harz Mountains, a landmark marking centuries of German borders and offering scenic hiking trails through stunning landscapes.
The Dreieckiger Pfahl, or Triangular Post, is a historic granite boundary stone located in the Harz Mountains. Erected before 1866, it originally marked the tripoint border between the Kingdom of Hanover and the Duchy of Brunswick. During the Cold War, it stood along the border between East and West Germany, adding another layer to its historical significance. Today, it marks the boundary between Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. Situated at an elevation of approximately 870 meters, the Dreieckiger Pfahl is a popular destination for hikers exploring the Harz National Park. The landmark is a testament to the region's complex past and offers a tangible connection to German history. The surrounding area provides scenic trails suitable for various skill levels, making it an accessible and rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. A nearby rest area allows hikers to pause and reflect on the historical importance of this unique location, nestled within the beautiful Harz landscape. The Dreieckiger Pfahl serves as a reminder of the ever-changing political landscape of Germany and its enduring natural beauty.
A brief summary to Dreieckiger Pfahl
- Harz, DE
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails around Dreieckiger Pfahl can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking to the Brocken, as there are limited options for refreshments along the trails.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the Harz Mountains can change quickly.
- Consider visiting during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery in peace.
- Explore the Harz Border Trail for a deeper understanding of the region's Cold War history.
Getting There
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Driving
From the B4 federal road between Torfhaus and Oderbrück, park at the designated car park. Parking fees typically range from €2-€5 for the day. From the car park, follow the well-marked hiking trails east for approximately 2.5 kilometers to reach the Dreieckiger Pfahl. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
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Public Transport
From Wernigerode, take Bus 251 towards Braunlage. Get off at the Braunlage, ZOB station and transfer to Bus 820 towards Oderbrück. Alight at the Oderbrück stop. From Oderbrück, follow the hiking trails east for approximately 2.5 kilometers to reach the Dreieckiger Pfahl. Ensure to check the bus schedules in advance as services may be infrequent, especially on weekends and holidays. A single bus fare from Wernigerode to Oderbrück will cost approximately €6-€8.
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Walking
If you are hiking from Braunlage, follow the signs towards the Brocken via the Dreieckiger Pfahl. The hike is approximately 11.7 kilometers and takes around 3-4 hours. Alternatively, from Torfhaus, follow the Goetheweg towards the Brocken. The Dreieckiger Pfahl is located approximately 6 kilometers from Torfhaus along this route.
Discover more about Dreieckiger Pfahl
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brocken
3.2 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)
3.3 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
3.7 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.
Alter Grenzweg
4.0 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.
Eckerlochstieg
4.1 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.
Oberer Bodewasserfall
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Oberer Bodewasserfall in Braunlage, a stunning natural waterfall that captivates with its serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Urwaldstieg
4.4 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.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
4.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Wurmberg-Steinbruch near Braunlage, a reclaimed quarry turned bird sanctuary, offering a tranquil escape into nature in the Harz.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
4.4 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.
Harz
5.1 km
Explore the mystical Harz Mountains: Hike through ancient forests, discover medieval towns, and uncover legends in Germany's enchanting northern highlands.
Wolfswarte
5.3 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.
Scherstorklippen
6.4 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.
Ottofelsen
9.3 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.
Kartoffeldenkmal
9.4 km
Discover the Kartoffeldenkmal near Braunlage, a unique monument commemorating the introduction of potato farming to the Harz Mountains and the ingenuity of its people.
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
9.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Soldatenstein
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Soldatenstein in Wernigerode, a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and serene trails through nature's beauty.
Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück
1.7 km
Explore Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück, a military cemetery that honors the valor of fallen soldiers amidst serene landscapes, perfect for reflection and remembrance.
Böser Hund
2.0 km
Explore Böser Hund, a serene tourist attraction in Germany offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor
2.7 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
2.7 km
Explore Torfhausmoor in Harz National Park, a breathtaking natural escape showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
WaldWandelWeg
3.0 km
Explore the serene WaldWandelWeg in Nationalpark Harz, a breathtaking hiking area ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
National Park Harz
3.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at National Park Harz, a natural paradise in Germany perfect for every adventurer.
Teufelskanzel
3.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich folklore at Teufelskanzel, a stunning viewpoint in the Harz Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Nordstern
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Nordstern, a stunning tourist attraction in Wernigerode's Harz Mountains, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Kompassscheibe
3.2 km
Explore the Kompassscheibe in Wernigerode: A unique compass rose showcasing navigational history amidst enchanting scenery.
Sendeturm Brocken
3.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
Brocken Garden
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Brocken Garden, a tranquil botanical haven amidst the stunning landscapes of Harz National Park.
Brockenhaus
3.3 km
Explore Brockenhaus: A captivating visitor center on the Brocken plateau, bridging nature and culture in the heart of Harz National Park.
Oderteich
3.4 km
Immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Oderteich, a highlight of Harz National Park, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Harz National Park
3.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
3.2 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
3.7 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
4.8 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
Hexenritt Alm
4.8 km
Discover Hexenritt Alm: A delightful restaurant offering traditional German cuisine and stunning mountain views in Braunlage.
Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
5.7 km
Discover the flavors of Braunlage at Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill—where culinary tradition meets modern dining in a stunning setting.
Café am Kurpark
5.9 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
6.1 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor amidst scenic beauty.
Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
6.2 km
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Kleine Auszeit
6.4 km
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Villa Bodeblick ǀ Hotel & Restaurant
6.4 km
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JASPER Grill Bar & Lounge / Club
6.5 km
Discover culinary delights and vibrant nightlife at JASPER Grill Bar & Lounge in Braunlage – where every meal is an experience!
Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus
6.5 km
Experience authentic German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus in the Harz Mountains.
DasVielleicht
6.5 km
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Karthi‘s
6.6 km
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ADRIA Grill
6.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
3.7 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Harzturm GmbH
3.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and family-friendly fun at Harzturm GmbH, your destination in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
6.0 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
6.3 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
6.4 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
6.4 km
Discover unique styles and local flair at Harzsneaks, the premier clothing store in Braunlage, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
6.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Harz region at Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten, the premier butcher shop in Braunlage, Germany.
Gamaswelt Braunlage
6.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gamaswelt Braunlage, a charming gift shop in the heart of the picturesque town of Braunlage.
Harzspots GmbH
6.6 km
Explore the Harz Mountains with Harzspots GmbH: Your premier tourist information center in Wernigerode, Germany.
Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
6.7 km
Shop sustainably at Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of Braunlage.
KiK Braunlage
7.4 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and home essentials at KiK Braunlage, your go-to destination for affordable shopping in a charming setting.
Waldschwimmbad Okerteich
8.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Waldschwimmbad Okerteich, an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by breathtaking nature, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Drei Annen Hohne
10.3 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Brockenbauer Thielecke
13.2 km
Experience the best of German cuisine at Brockenbauer Thielecke – a must-visit steakhouse in Tanne, offering delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere.
Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus
14.4 km
Experience the unique flavors of traditional Baumkuchen in the heart of Wernigerode at Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus, a sweet delight for every visitor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
3.7 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Schirmbar Hexenritt
4.8 km
Experience the charm of the mountains at Schirmbar Hexenritt, a cozy bar in Braunlage offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pension Mühlhahn
5.5 km
Discover the charm of Pension Mühlhahn, your cozy guest house in Wernigerode, offering delightful dining and breathtaking views of the Harz mountains.
Bar Milano im San Siro
5.7 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
John's Bar
5.8 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of John's Bar in Braunlage, a perfect retreat after enjoying the breathtaking Harz mountains.
Travellers Cafe Bar
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Travellers Cafe Bar in Braunlage, where friendly service and a cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable night.
Hirschgrund-Biergarten
6.3 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
6.3 km
Discover the charm of Hille-Bille, a cozy gastropub in Braunlage, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await tourists and locals alike.
Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt
6.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and fine dining at Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt in Braunlage, a hidden gem in the Harz mountains.
Hotel & Restaurant Memory in Braunlage
6.4 km
Discover Braunlage's Memory Hotel & Restaurant, where comfort meets delightful dining and a vibrant bar experience amidst breathtaking nature.
Zum Harzer Roller
6.4 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in the heart of Braunlage at Zum Harzer Roller, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await.
The VALHALLA Bar
6.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The VALHALLA Bar in Braunlage, where every evening is filled with fun, great drinks, and unforgettable moments.
BegebaR
6.7 km
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Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café
6.7 km
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Bierchen Bierchen - die gemütliche Bergkneipe
9.1 km
Discover the cozy embrace of Bierchen Bierchen, the mountain pub in Sankt Andreasberg, where local charm meets refreshing brews and hearty food.