The best walks and hikes around Oderteich
4.6
(59310)
219,427
hikers
926
hikes
Hiking around Oderteich offers diverse routes within the Harz National Park, characterized by moorland spruce forests and open moorland areas. The region features the historic Oderteich dam, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Harz Water Management System, and the lake itself. Trails often include sections of wooden planks designed to protect sensitive environments, with some routes showcasing ancient spruce trees and "deadwood regeneration." The landscape provides a mix of forest paths, lakeside views, and varied terrain.
Best hiking trails around Oderteich
- The most popular hiking route is Circular hiking trail Oderteich, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 8 minutes to complete. This easy route encircles the lake, offering views of the water and surrounding forests.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wooden boardwalk at the Oderteich – Oderteich | Reservoir loop from Oderteich, a moderate 7.0 miles (11.4 km) path. This route includes sections of wooden boardwalks and explores the reservoir area.
- Local hikers also love the Oderteich riverside path – Torfhaus Moor loop from Oderteich, a 9.1 miles (14.7 km) trail leading through riverside paths and moorland, often completed in about 3 hours 59 minutes.
- Hiking around Oderteich is defined by moorland spruce forests, open moorland, and the historic dam. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Oderteich are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 55,000 reviews. More than 200,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Oderteich's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.8
(2730)
10,617
hikers
4.40km
01:08
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(476)
1,697
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(68)
236
hikers
14.9km
04:02
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(56)
213
hikers
20.1km
05:35
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(58)
230
hikers
15.8km
04:23
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
The small passages are really nice, especially in winter it's a dream in white
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We visited on a sunny and snowy winter day in January. Even (or perhaps especially) with everything covered in a thick blanket of snow, it was an absolutely beautiful scene. The Oderteich pond was easily accessible via the large parking lot located across the road. The paths around the Oderteich were quite narrow on this winter day, which made things a bit tight at times with two dogs, especially when encountering oncoming traffic. But somehow, we always managed to make it work. :) Oh, and the name "OderTEICH" shouldn't be taken too literally; the path around it is almost 5 km long. :)
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We visited on a sunny and snowy winter day in January. Even (or perhaps especially) with everything covered in a thick blanket of snow, it was an absolutely beautiful scene. The Oderteich pond was easily accessible via the large parking lot located across the road. The paths around the Oderteich were quite narrow on this winter day, which made things a bit tight at times with two dogs, especially when encountering oncoming traffic. But somehow, we always managed to make it work. :) Oh, and the name "Oderteich" shouldn't be taken too literally; the path around it is almost 5 km long. :)
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The stamp is here, but there are still a few challenging meters to go to the top.
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Root and wooden plank paths and vegetation make this one of the most beautiful in the Harz Mountains. A large parking area for hikers is right by the lake. A fantastic ascent to the Achtermann peak is not far away.
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A dream, this is true Swedish feeling, beautiful reflection of the Oderteich pond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Oderteich?
The Oderteich area offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 900 routes available. These range from easy strolls around the lake to more challenging tours through the Harz National Park.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails around Oderteich?
You'll encounter diverse terrain, from paved sections and natural root paths to wooden plank paths designed to protect sensitive moorland areas. The landscape features moorland spruce forests, open moorland, and ancient forests with visible deadwood regeneration, creating a unique and sometimes mystical atmosphere.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for a relaxed outing?
Yes, the Circular hiking trail Oderteich is an excellent choice. This easy 4.4 km route encircles the lake, offering pleasant views and a gentle elevation profile, perfect for a relaxed walk.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
The historic Oderteich dam, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a significant landmark. You can also see the unique Granite obelisks at the Oderteich along the dam. The trails themselves showcase pristine moorland spruce forests, open moorland with unique flora, and ancient forests with fascinating deadwood regeneration, including "stilt spruces" growing atop old stumps. Don't miss the Root-covered path on the west shore of the Oderteich for a truly natural experience.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
For a more demanding experience, consider the Oderteich riverside path – Oderteich | Reservoir loop from Oderteich. This difficult route spans over 20 km and involves significant elevation changes, offering a comprehensive exploration of the reservoir area and surrounding landscapes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Oderteich?
Oderteich is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer allows for swimming in designated areas of the lake, autumn offers vibrant foliage, and winter transforms the landscape into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. The unique moorland and forest ecosystems provide distinct beauty in every season.
Are the hiking trails around Oderteich suitable for families with children?
Many trails are family-friendly, especially the shorter, easier circular routes around the lake. The varied terrain, including wooden boardwalks and root paths, can be an adventure for children. The opportunity to observe unique flora and the brownish water of the Oderteich adds to the appeal for younger explorers.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails around Oderteich. As part of the Harz National Park, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Oderteich?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 55,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique blend of historic structures like the dam, the mystical atmosphere of the ancient forests, and the well-maintained paths that lead through diverse moorland and forest landscapes.
Is there public transport available to reach the Oderteich hiking trails?
Yes, Oderteich is accessible by public transport, making it convenient for hikers without a car. Various bus routes connect to the area, often dropping off near the main starting points for the trails. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current information.
Where can I park my car when visiting Oderteich for a hike?
There are designated parking areas available near Oderteich, particularly close to the main dam and visitor facilities. These parking lots provide convenient access to the trailheads for various hiking routes around the lake and into the surrounding Harz National Park.
Are there any moderate routes that offer a good balance of challenge and scenery?
Absolutely. The Wooden boardwalk at the Oderteich – Oderteich | Reservoir loop from Oderteich is a moderate 11.4 km path that includes sections of wooden boardwalks and explores the reservoir area, providing a great balance of scenic beauty and a satisfying workout.
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