Eckerlochstieg: A Bridge to Nature's Majesty
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
The Eckerlochstieg, a bridge nestled within the Harz National Park near Wernigerode, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's natural beauty. This scenic spot, marked by a bridge over the Schwarzes Schluftwasser (Black Schluftwasser), is a highlight for hikers venturing towards the Brocken, the Harz Mountains' highest peak. The Eckerlochstieg is more than just a crossing; it's an immersive experience into a landscape shaped by rushing waters and ancient forests. The trail leading to the bridge is known for its challenging terrain, featuring rocky paths and steep inclines, rewarding adventurers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. The area is particularly enchanting, showcasing the Harz's diverse flora and fauna, making it a memorable stop for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful moment by the water or a thrilling hike through the woods, the Eckerlochstieg provides a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Germany.
A brief summary to Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
- Wernigerode, 38879, DE
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail to Eckerlochstieg is rocky and can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and dress accordingly, as the weather in the Harz Mountains can change quickly.
- Consider visiting during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds.
- Combine your hike with a ride on the Brocken Railway for a unique experience.
Getting There
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Walking
The Eckerlochstieg bridge is best accessed on foot via marked hiking trails from Schierke. From the center of Schierke, follow signs towards the Nationalpark Harz and Brocken. The trail to Eckerlochstieg begins near the Nationalparkhaus am Wasserwerk (National Park House at the Waterworks). The hike to the bridge is approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) and takes about 2-2.5 hours, with an altitude gain of around 530 meters. Be prepared for a rocky and steep path. Parking is available in Schierke (fees apply).
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Public Transport
To reach the Eckerlochstieg using public transport, take a train to Wernigerode. From Wernigerode, take bus line 257 towards Braunlage and get off at the 'Schierke, Jugendherberge' stop. From the bus stop, walk towards the Brockenstraße and the Nationalparkhaus am Wasserwerk, where the trail to Eckerlochstieg begins. A single bus fare from Wernigerode to Schierke is approximately €5-€7. With a guest card from Schierke, the buses can be used for free.
Discover more about Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Eckerlochstieg
1.0 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.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
1.3 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.
Urwaldstieg
1.5 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.
Brocken
2.2 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.
Alter Grenzweg
2.3 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
3.4 km
Explore the mystical Harz Mountains: Hike through ancient forests, discover medieval towns, and uncover legends in Germany's enchanting northern highlands.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Wurmberg-Steinbruch, a birdwatching haven in Braunlage, filled with diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.
Scherstorklippen
3.9 km
Discover the majestic Scherstorklippen in the Harz Mountains: Hike through stunning granite formations, explore historic Elend, and experience the beauty of the Harz National Park.
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.
Ottofelsen
6.2 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.
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
6.6 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.
Ilsestein
8.2 km
Discover the legendary Ilsestein in the Harz Mountains: Hike to the summit for breathtaking views, explore its rich history, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Ilse Valley.
Wolfswarte
8.6 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.
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
9.6 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
Harz Steam Railway
1.3 km
Experience the magic of the Harz Steam Railway, a historic narrow-gauge train journey through Germany's stunning Harz mountains, perfect for all adventure lovers.
Nationalparkhaus Schierke
1.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Harz Mountains at Nationalparkhaus Schierke, your gateway to adventure and tranquility.
Soldatenstein
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Soldatenstein in Wernigerode, a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and serene trails through nature's beauty.
Teufelskanzel
2.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich folklore at Teufelskanzel, a stunning viewpoint in the Harz Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Brocken Garden
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Brocken Garden, a tranquil botanical haven amidst the stunning landscapes of Harz National Park.
Nordstern
2.2 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
2.2 km
Explore the Kompassscheibe in Wernigerode: A unique compass rose showcasing navigational history amidst enchanting scenery.
Eulenbrunnen
2.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Eulenbrunnen in Wernigerode, a charming fountain surrounded by lush landscapes and rich local culture.
Sendeturm Brocken
2.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
Brockenhaus
2.4 km
Explore Brockenhaus: A captivating visitor center on the Brocken plateau, bridging nature and culture in the heart of Harz National Park.
Aussichtsturm Wurmberg
2.7 km
Discover breathtaking views at Aussichtsturm Wurmberg, a premier tourist attraction in Braunlage, showcasing the majestic beauty of the Harz Mountains.
Kurpark Schierke
2.9 km
Explore the enchanting Kurpark Schierke in the Harz Mountains, a stunning state park perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Böser Hund
3.0 km
Explore Böser Hund, a serene tourist attraction in Germany offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Brunnen
3.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Brunnen, a hidden gem in the Harz region that offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Brocken Coaster Thomas mask
3.3 km
Feel the thrill of summer tobogganing at the Brocken Coaster in Wernigerode, where adventure meets breathtaking views in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Essential places to dine
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
2.3 km
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Café am Kurpark
2.9 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
3.2 km
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Hexenritt Schirmbar
3.2 km
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Hexenritt Alm
3.3 km
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Villa Bodeblick ǀ Hotel & Restaurant
3.4 km
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Montevino Vin'Osteria
3.6 km
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Restaurant Luis
3.7 km
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Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
5.3 km
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Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
5.7 km
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DasVielleicht
5.8 km
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Kleine Auszeit
6.0 km
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Moni's Hexenhäuschen
6.1 km
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JASPER Grill Bar & Lounge / Club
6.1 km
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Waldbadschenke
6.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
3.0 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Harzspots GmbH
3.6 km
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Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
5.9 km
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Harzsneaks
5.9 km
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Ottos Sport & Tracht
5.9 km
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Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
6.1 km
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Gamaswelt Braunlage
6.1 km
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Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
6.2 km
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Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
6.7 km
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Harzturm GmbH
6.7 km
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KiK Braunlage
6.8 km
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Drei Annen Hohne
7.0 km
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Brockenbauer Thielecke
11.0 km
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Waldschwimmbad Okerteich
11.4 km
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Wergona Chocolate GmbH
11.8 km
Discover the magic of artisanal chocolates at Wergona Chocolate GmbH in Wernigerode, where every bite is a delightful experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pension Mühlhahn
2.4 km
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Schirmbar Hexenritt
3.2 km
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Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
5.0 km
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Bar Milano im San Siro
5.3 km
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Travellers Cafe Bar
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Travellers Cafe Bar in Braunlage, where friendly service and a cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable night.
John's Bar
5.6 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of John's Bar in Braunlage, a perfect retreat after enjoying the breathtaking Harz mountains.
Hotel & Restaurant Memory in Braunlage
5.8 km
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Hirschgrund-Biergarten
5.9 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
5.9 km
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Hille-Bille Inh.A. Brunnen
5.9 km
Experience the charming atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Hille-Bille Inh.A. Brunnen, a top gastropub in Braunlage, perfect for relaxation after adventure.
Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt
5.9 km
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Zum Harzer Roller
6.0 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
6.1 km
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Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café, where live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks unite in Braunlage.
BegebaR
6.2 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of BegebaR, a must-visit bar in Braunlage offering local brews, cozy vibes, and vibrant community interactions.
