4.4
(847)
16,138
runners
1,264
runs
Jogging around NSG Emsaue offers diverse landscapes along the Ems River, characterized by renatured river sections, sandbanks, and steep banks. The region features extensive floodplains with remnants of riparian forests and various wetlands, creating varied terrain. Unique dune areas like Bockholter Berge and a mosaic of wetlands and grasslands provide a range of natural environments. This extensive nature reserve provides diverse running surfaces and scenic elements for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.6
(12)
266
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
230
runners
5.66km
00:35
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(5)
153
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
107
runners
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
104
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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MTB Trails around NSG Emsaue
A detour to the Salinenpark is definitely worthwhile. The quality of stay is very high. There are numerous benches and a large car park near the animal park.
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The Gottesgabe saltworks in Rheine is a historic site closely linked to salt production. In the immediate vicinity, you will find the Hotel-Café Gottesgabe, which also features a restaurant.
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Whatever this structure is supposed to represent, everyone sees it with a different perspective
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The saltworks in Rheine Bentlage, in the area of the natural zoo, is an eye-catcher, a very beautiful facility with lots of visitors. We also like to take a break at the pond by the saltworks. There are enough benches to sit down on.
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It is worth planning a little time here to explore the Bentlage recreation area to the fullest. The Salinenpark with the neighboring NaturZoo and the Bentlage monastery with its cultural landscape is an absolute highlight. Between spacious green areas are the buildings of the historic saltworks, which produced salt for the spa in Bentlage until 1952 and at whose graduation tower you can still inhale the healthy salty air today. A beautiful walk through the Bentlage forest leads to the Bentlage monastery - a first-class art and cultural monument. The Rheine NaturZoo is home to 1,000 animals of 100 species.
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A saltworks constructed using great old technology. An invitation to take a break and relax.
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Time for a break
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The NSG Emsaue offers a vast network of nearly 1200 running routes. This includes a wide variety of trails, with over 170 easy routes, 850 moderate routes, and 173 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
Joggers in NSG Emsaue will encounter a diverse landscape. The routes feature remnants of riparian forests, willow bushes, moist grasslands, and picturesque oxbow lakes. You can also run along scenic riverside paths, explore unique dune areas like Bockholter Berge and Elter Sand, and traverse through wetlands and well-preserved alder or hornbeam-oak forests. This variety provides different running surfaces and constantly changing scenery.
Absolutely! NSG Emsaue has over 170 easy running routes, perfect for beginners, casual joggers, or families. These paths often follow well-maintained sections, such as those near the Emsauenradweg, offering a relaxed and enjoyable experience through the natural beauty of the Ems river landscape.
While jogging, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the Ems River itself, cross various Ems bridges, and observe the ongoing renaturation projects that enhance the river's natural state. The area also features several beautiful lakes, such as Hermeler Lake and the Anima Foresta Pond in Elter Dünen Nature Reserve, providing tranquil spots along your run.
Yes, you can incorporate historical and cultural sights into your run. For instance, the Bentlage Monastery loop from Rheine takes you near the impressive Bentlage Monastery, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage amidst your exercise. Other routes might pass by historical bridges or remnants of past industrial activity like the Saline.
The running routes in NSG Emsaue are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average score of 4.4 stars from over 750 reviews. More than 14,000 runners have explored this area, often praising the diverse terrain, the peaceful riverside paths, and the well-preserved natural environment that makes for a refreshing and engaging running experience.
Many of the trails within NSG Emsaue are suitable for running with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and natural habitats. The varied terrain and open spaces offer a great opportunity for you and your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors together.
Yes, the NSG Emsaue features numerous circular running routes, making it easy to start and finish your run at the same point. A popular option is the Saltworks Canal, Rheine – Saline Gottesgabe Graduation Tower loop from NSG Grosses und kleines Unland, which is a 9.9 km trail offering scenic views and a complete circuit.
The NSG Emsaue is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant flora to the grasslands and forests, while summer offers lush greenery and shaded paths. Autumn transforms the riparian forests with stunning colors, and even winter provides a serene, crisp atmosphere for running, especially along the Ems river. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Absolutely. With over 170 easy routes, NSG Emsaue is ideal for family-friendly jogging or shorter, more relaxed runs. Many paths are relatively flat and well-maintained, such as the Flooded Ems River Landscape – Böckmann Fashion & Sport loop from Ellinghorst, a moderate 5.3 km path that's perfect for a pleasant outing without being too strenuous.
Parking is generally available at various access points to the nature reserve, particularly near larger towns like Rheine, Emsdetten, or Warendorf. Look for designated parking areas close to trailheads or popular starting points, which are often indicated on local maps or within komoot route descriptions.
While the NSG Emsaue is primarily a nature reserve, you'll find amenities in nearby towns and villages. Areas like the Emssee and Emsseepark in Warendorf offer relaxing spots and are often close to cafes or restaurants. For specific routes, checking the starting or ending points in komoot can often reveal nearby refreshment options.
For experienced runners seeking a longer challenge, NSG Emsaue offers routes like the Saltworks Canal, Rheine – Saline Gottesgabe Graduation Tower loop from NSG Grosses und kleines Unland, which spans nearly 10 km. There are also 173 difficult routes available, providing more extensive and demanding trails to explore the diverse landscapes of the reserve.


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