The best running trails around Härtsfeldsee
4.8
(76)
588
runners
86
runs
Jogging around Härtsfeldsee is centered on an approximately 11.5-hectare lake, which features two islands serving as wildlife breeding grounds. The surrounding area is designated as a local recreation zone, encompassing extensive forests and heathlands. Running routes offer a mix of well-maintained paths and natural sections, providing diverse experiences across varied terrain. This landscape allows for runs through different environments, from lakeside paths to wooded trails, often with panoramic views.
Best jogging routes around Härtsfeldsee
- The most popular jogging route is Paradise Trail loop from Katzenstein, a 9.1 miles (14.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This route offers varied terrain and views of the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local runners is View of Rappenmühle – Ballmertshofen loop from Katzenstein, a moderate 8.1 miles (13.0 km) path. This running route winds through scenic landscapes with glimpses of the Rappenmühle.
- Local runners also love the Härtsfeld Museum Railway – Lake Härtsfeld loop from Katzenstein, a 5.6 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through the area near the historic Härtsfeld Museum Railway, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Jogging around Härtsfeldsee is defined by scenic lake views, paths alongside the Härtsfeld Museum Railway, and routes offering glimpses of Katzenstein Castle. The network offers options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Härtsfeldsee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 590 runners have used komoot to explore Härtsfeldsee's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
15.0km
01:37
210m
210m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
runners
6.92km
00:45
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The 1,000 mm gauge Härtsfeld Railway from Neresheim to Dillingen/Donau served the Härtsfeld on the eastern Swabian Jura in Baden-Württemberg from 1901 until its closure in 1972. After the closure of the "Schättere", the track facilities were completely dismantled and the vehicles scrapped. In 1984, the "Freundeskreis Schättere" was formed, which emerged a year later as the Härtsfeld-Museumsbahn e.V. (HMB). Original vehicles and some identically constructed vehicles were purchased and restored, tracks and switches were laid, and a museum was established in the former Neresheim station building. On May 16, 1996, the first groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the first, 3 km long section took place, which was then officially opened on October 20, 2001, on the hundredth birthday of the railway. A second section of approx. 2.6 km to the Härtsfeldsee was built between 2007 and 2021 and officially opened on August 1, 2021. The third section to Dischingen is yet to be built. From June 20 - 21, 2026, the 1,000 mm gauge tank locomotive "RUR"🚂 from the Selfkantbahn narrow-gauge railway museum in Gangelt-Schierwaldenrath was a guest. It was built in 1899 by the Henschel & Sohn locomotive factory in Kassel for the Dürener Dampfstraßenbahn (Düren Steam Tramway). It is one of the few surviving tank steam locomotives developed for inner-city tram operation. After its later conversion to a steam storage locomotive, it served as a works locomotive in the Schoeller paper mill in Birkesdorf before coming to the Selfkantbahn in 1972 as a non-operational exhibit. Its handover to the partner company KLEINBAAN Service of the Dutch narrow-gauge enthusiast Wim Pater in 2013 enabled its complete restoration to its original condition as a fired wet steam locomotive. The RUR is the only surviving steam locomotive of the formerly eight 1,000 mm gauge narrow-gauge railways in the Rhenish Bay and, at 126 years old, is the oldest operational steam locomotive in the Rhineland. It is based at the Selfkantbahn and runs on selected operating days and makes guest appearances at other 1,000 mm gauge museum railways.
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This is no longer just a kiosk, but a proper restaurant that deserves praise and recognition.
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Sägmühle is a station on the Härtsfeld Museum Railway in Neresheim, serving as the terminus of the museum railway line to Härtsfeldsee. The line runs from Neresheim via Sägmühle to Katzenstein, with Sägmühle being the temporary terminus until 2021. The station is located at the former timber loading point and is situated on the edge of the Egau Valley. On certain days, Sägmühle station offers connections to historic buses that travel to Dischingen and Katzenstein Castle. The Härtsfeld Museum Railway operates every first Sunday of the month from May to October, with the 2025 season ending on October 5. There are also service days on public holidays such as Ascension Day, Whitsun, Corpus Christi, the Neresheim Town Festival, and the Bahnhofshocketse (Station Hocketse). The journey time from Neresheim to Sägmühle is approximately 25 minutes. The line is 5.6 kilometers long and has a narrow gauge of 1,000 mm. The railway is operated with historic rolling stock, including a steam locomotive from 1913 and a railcar from the 1930s. The Sägmühle station is part of the Härtsfeldbahn theme trail, which offers a roughly 10-kilometer cycling or hiking route along the former railway line.
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The temporary terminus of the Schättere line is a great success. The association members are doing a tremendous job. A member of the association explained to me during a conversation that the railway will be extended to the former station in Dischingen. The station in Dischingen is also owned by the museum association.
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The association has done a great job. A fantastic heritage railway.
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A truly unique highlight of the association's more than 40-year history: the Katzenstein terminus of the "Schättere" (Schättere Railway), which entered into operation in 2021. Twenty-nine years after its closure in 1972 and complete dismantling, the first 3 km section of the Härtsfeld Railway, which formerly ran from Nerresheim to Dillingen, was put into operation with great enthusiasm and commitment in 2001. The second, 2.6 km section to Härtsfeldsee followed in 2021. Steam operations now take place on this idyllic narrow-gauge railway on selected weekends (see https://www.hmb-ev.de). Now that this success, which was deemed impossible and a crazy idea by some crazy people in 1984, has been achieved, Dischingen is now to become the future terminus of the railway – the old station building there is already owned by the association. The only downside: the railway line cycle path to Dischingen, which is beautifully shaded for large parts, is likely to get lost in the process…
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A beautiful cycle path leads past the rock terraces
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Härtsfeldsee?
There are over 60 running routes available around Härtsfeldsee, catering to various fitness levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 400 times, highlighting the area's popularity for outdoor activities.
Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners or casual runners?
Yes, Härtsfeldsee offers several easy jogging routes. Out of the total routes, 13 are classified as easy, making them perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed run. These trails typically feature less elevation gain and well-maintained paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails around Härtsfeldsee?
The jogging trails around Härtsfeldsee offer varied terrain. You can expect a mix of paths ranging from easily accessible surfaces suitable for all skill levels to more natural trails that might require good fitness and sure-footedness. Many routes provide scenic views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
Are there any family-friendly running routes or activities near Härtsfeldsee?
Härtsfeldsee is a great destination for families. Besides jogging routes, the area is a designated local recreation area with a playground and various water play equipment. There are also small, family-friendly circular routes, such as those leading from Härtsfeldsee to Katzenstein Castle, which combine physical activity with exploration.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see while running around Härtsfeldsee?
While running around Härtsfeldsee, you can enjoy beautiful lake views and glimpses of the historic Katzenstein Castle. The routes also often run alongside the path of the former Härtsfeldbahn, now home to the Härtsfeld-Museumsbahn, offering a unique historical backdrop to your run. The lake itself features two islands that serve as wildlife breeding grounds, adding to the natural serenity.
Is there parking available for joggers at Härtsfeldsee?
Yes, Härtsfeldsee is well-equipped with facilities for visitors. There are three larger parking lots located in the immediate vicinity of the lake, which serve as convenient starting points for jogs and hikes.
Can I reach Härtsfeldsee by public transport for a run?
Yes, Härtsfeldsee is accessible by public transport. There is a bus stop at Härtsfeldsee, which is part of the bus line connecting Neresheim and Dischingen, making it convenient to reach the area without a car.
What do other runners say about the jogging routes in Härtsfeldsee?
The running routes in Härtsfeldsee are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. Runners frequently praise the varied terrain, scenic lake views, and the opportunity to explore historical sites like Katzenstein Castle along the way.
Are there any circular running routes around Härtsfeldsee?
Yes, many of the running routes around Härtsfeldsee are circular, offering convenient loops. For instance, the Härtsfeldsee loop from Dischingen is a moderate 8.6 km trail that allows you to experience the lake's surroundings without retracing your steps.
Are there options for longer or more challenging runs in the Härtsfeldsee area?
Absolutely. While there are easy routes, Härtsfeldsee also offers more challenging options. For example, the Paradise Trail loop from Katzenstein is a moderate 14.7 km route with over 230 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout for experienced runners.
Are there places to eat or stay near Härtsfeldsee after a run?
Yes, Härtsfeldsee is a popular recreation area with amenities. There is a gastronomy establishment right at the lake, perfect for a post-run meal or snack. Additionally, a campsite is planned, and the surrounding towns like Dischingen and Neresheim offer further options for dining and accommodation.
What is the best time of year to go jogging at Härtsfeldsee?
Härtsfeldsee is enjoyable for jogging throughout much of the year. As a local recreation area, its paths are generally well-maintained. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer allows for combining a run with a refreshing dip in the lake. Winter runs can also be scenic, though trail conditions may vary.
Most popular routes around Härtsfeldsee
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