4.6
(10139)
36,245
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking around Diemelsee offers a diverse landscape characterized by the large reservoir, surrounding forests, and rolling hills of the Waldeck-Frankenberg district. The region provides a network of trails that often feature views of the lake and its dam. Terrain varies from lakeside paths to routes ascending through woodland, providing elevation changes suitable for different hiking preferences.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
4.8
(868)
3,033
hikers
13.7km
03:41
160m
160m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(45)
188
hikers
6.62km
01:51
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(31)
136
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(51)
166
hikers
3.95km
01:06
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(49)
208
hikers
14.9km
04:24
370m
370m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Very beautiful, partly very natural.
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Great adventurous hiking trail
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Small viewpoint with a bench, the path there is more of an easy trail
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At the upper reaches of the Diemel River, in Helminghausen, we encounter the massive dam of the Diemel Dam. A 35-meter drop is used here to operate two Francis turbines. The power plant below this dam was built between 1920 and 1922. Since 2000, it has been operated by E.ON Energie AG, formerly Preußen-Elektra in Hanover. Following restructuring and spin-off measures at E.ON in 2016, Uniper SE operates the power plant, which reports directly to the Edersee utility management. The substation is housed in the four-story power plant building. Here, the three-phase current generated at a voltage of 8 kV was transformed in various ways and fed into the Hessian 60 kV line to Hemfurt am Edersee and a 24 kV line to Heringhausen (Waldeck), as well as into the 60 kV line of the Büren-Brilon Electricity Association. From here, electricity was also supplied to the local grids of Helminghausen, Padberg, and Messinghausen. Two transformers in the basement provided the conversion for the Brilon district. The oil switches were located on the ground floor, the collector slides on the first floor, and the surge protection on the second. This is where the cables entered and exited. This explains why there is no transformer house in Helminghausen, as the transformer was housed directly in the power plant's substation. The municipality of Helminghausen only had to erect 25 wooden poles, each 10 meters long and with a 20-cm diameter, for the power grid. The front section of the power plant, with its striking three-axis window front, houses two three-phase generators from Siemens-Schuckert. Today, thanks to technical improvements, they each have an output of 500 kW (760 hp). They went into operation in 1924. Behind the building are the bottom outlet tunnels of the dam, from which the inlet pipe leads, supplying 4,500 liters of water to the turbines every second. The power plant has a capacity of 1.2 MW. The substation, the first in the Hochsauerland region, was commissioned as early as August 1922. Source: https://helminghausen.net/kraftwerk/
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The Diemelsee region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 35 routes available. These trails cater to different preferences, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging, longer excursions.
Yes, Diemelsee has several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Stone Bridge at Hennesee – View of Diemelsee loop from Diemelsee is an easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) route that takes about 1 hour 51 minutes, offering pleasant lake views through forested areas. Another accessible option is the Diemel Reservoir – Diemelsee (Diemel Lake) loop from Diemelsee, a shorter 2.5-mile (3.9 km) trail.
Most hiking trails around Diemelsee are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas or near livestock, and to carry waste bags. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Many trails offer stunning views of Diemelsee. The Diemelsee Dam – View of Lake Diemelsee loop from Diemelsee provides extensive views of the lake and its impressive dam structure. For panoramic perspectives, consider the View of the Diemelsee – View of Lake Diemelsee loop from Heringhausen. Additionally, the Panorama Trail Diemelsteig – Views of Diemelsee highlight is specifically known for its scenic vistas.
Yes, many of the popular hiking routes around Diemelsee are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the View of Lake Diemelsee – Diemelsee Nature Reserve loop from Naturpark Diemelsee, which is an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) option.
The best time for hiking around Diemelsee is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the landscape is vibrant with lush greenery or autumn colors. Summer offers warmer temperatures ideal for combining hiking with water activities on the lake.
Hiking around Diemelsee is possible in winter, but conditions can vary. Some trails may be snowy or icy, especially at higher elevations or in shaded forest sections. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts, wear appropriate winter hiking gear, and choose well-maintained or lower-elevation paths. The serene, snow-covered landscape can offer a unique experience.
Beyond the lake itself, hikers can explore several interesting landmarks. The impressive Diemelsee Dam is a prominent feature, and you can also visit the Diemel Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant. The Diemelsee Lakeside Promenade offers a pleasant walk, and the Diemelsee Lake Bridge is another notable structure.
Yes, especially in the villages surrounding Diemelsee like Heringhausen and Diemelsee itself, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and inns where you can stop for refreshments or a meal. Some trails may also pass by smaller kiosks or picnic areas, particularly closer to the lake shore or popular viewpoints.
The Diemelsee region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,900 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, the extensive views of the lake, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various fitness levels. The combination of water, forests, and rolling hills is frequently highlighted as a major draw.
Hikes around Diemelsee vary significantly in length and duration. Shorter, easy trails like the Diemel Reservoir – Diemelsee (Diemel Lake) loop from Diemelsee can be completed in just over an hour. More challenging routes, such as the View of the Diemelsee – View of Lake Diemelsee loop from Heringhausen, can take around 4 to 5 hours to complete, offering longer excursions for experienced hikers.


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