Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh: A Fairytale Hike to Brocken
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.
Embark on a magical journey through the Harz National Park on the Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh (The White Deer Fairytale Trail). This 5-kilometer hiking path, starting near Wernigerode, leads to the summit of Brocken, the Harz Mountains' highest peak. Along the way, families with children will be captivated by six enchanting stations that narrate the tale of Albert and the White Deer. The trail winds through a pristine area of the national park, traversing rocky terrain, roots, and diverse landscapes. The final chapter of the fairytale awaits at the Brockenhaus museum atop Brocken, where a special stamp rewards young hikers for their adventure. This unique trail blends outdoor activity with local folklore, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for this moderately challenging hike.
A brief summary to Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh
- Wernigerode, DE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing, as the trail can be steep and the weather on Brocken can change quickly.
- Pick up a Märchenflyer at the Nationalparkhaus Schierke or Brockenhaus to follow the story and collect a special stamp at the end.
- Allocate 2-3 hours for the hike to fully enjoy the scenery, fairytale stations, and Brockenhaus museum.
- Check the National Park Harz website for trail conditions and station availability before you go.
- Consider an alternative descent via Brockenstraße, Alte Bobbahn, or the Brockenbahn steam train for a different perspective.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh using public transport, take bus line 264 from Wernigerode to Schierke. Get off at the 'Jugendherberge, Schierke' stop, which is approximately 500 meters from the start of the trail at Nationalparkhaus Schierke. Bus fare is approximately €3-5 each way, depending on the exact starting point in Wernigerode. Alternatively, take the Harzer Schmalspurbahn (HSB) from Wernigerode to Schierke Bahnhof, which is about 3.5 km from the trail's start. From there, follow signs to the Nationalparkhaus. HSB ticket prices vary depending on the distance, but expect to pay around €15-20 for a round trip from Wernigerode to Schierke.
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Walking
From the center of Schierke, follow the signs towards 'Nationalpark' or 'Brocken'. The Nationalparkhaus Schierke, the starting point of the Märchenpfad, is located at the western edge of Schierke on Brockenstraße, which is closed to public vehicle traffic. The walk from most accommodations in Schierke to the Nationalparkhaus is generally less than 1 km and takes about 15-20 minutes. Be aware that the walk involves a slight incline.
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Parking
If driving to Schierke, parking is available in the town. Follow signs to public parking areas. From there, follow the signs to the Nationalparkhaus Schierke. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €5-8 for a day. Note that the Brockenstraße is closed to public traffic, so you cannot drive directly to the Nationalparkhaus.
Discover more about Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
0.0 km
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Eckerlochstieg
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Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
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Urwaldstieg
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Alter Grenzweg
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Harz
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Scherstorklippen
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Brocken
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Ottofelsen
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Unmissable attractions to see
Haifischfelsen
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